The manga adaptation of Tana Akasa’s Third Loop: The Nameless Princess and the Cruel Emperor is slated to conclude with its seventh volume. This news arrives as the series has captivated readers with its blend of romantic fantasy, reincarnation, and heartwarming themes. Here’s a look at the manga’s journey, its origins, and what fans can expect from its final installment.
The Final Loop Approaches
The seventh and final compiled book volume of the manga adaptation is scheduled to ship on July 25, 2025. This marks the end of the on-screen journey for Princess “That” and her quest to break free from a cycle of abuse and find her own name.
Origins in Light Novel
The manga is based on the light novel series of the same name, penned by Iota Aiue. The light novels were published by Futabasha in three volumes from 2021 to 2022, featuring illustrations by Misa Sazanami. Aiue originally launched the story on the Shosetsuka ni Narou website in March 2021, concluding it in May of the same year.
Story Synopsis
Third Loop: The Nameless Princess and the Cruel Emperor tells the story of a princess who is never given a proper name and endures years of mistreatment. Each time she meets a tragic end, she is sent back to the past, beginning again as a three-year-old girl. During her third loop, however, things begin to change.
The imperial family’s guardian deity, the Golden Dragon, takes notice of her, and the legendary Flame Tiger becomes attached to her. Even the crown prince, who previously showed no interest, now calls her an angel. The central question is whether her cold-blooded emperor father will finally show her affection. The princess, known only as “That,” is determined to survive and earn a name for herself.
Manga Adaptation
The manga adaptation, illustrated by Tana Akasa, launched on Futabasha’s Gaugau Monster website in 2022. The series quickly gained popularity for its charming art style and faithful adaptation of the light novel’s storyline. Futabasha published the first volume in 2022, with the sixth volume released on January 24.
English Release
Cross Infinite World has licensed and digitally released the original light novel series in English. This has allowed a global audience to follow the princess’s journey.
Themes and Appeal
The series is known for its exploration of several themes:
Reincarnation and Time Loops: The protagonist’s ability to relive her life offers a unique perspective on changing fate and overcoming adversity.
Romantic Fantasy: The presence of dragons, magical creatures, and royal intrigue creates a rich and engaging fantasy world.
Heartwarming Relationships: The developing bonds between the princess, the dragon, the flame tiger, and even her initially cold father provide emotional depth and resonate with readers.
Overcoming Abuse: The story tackles themes of abuse and neglect, but it ultimately focuses on healing, growth, and finding love and acceptance.
The series has garnered praise for its cute and fluffy elements, particularly the interactions with the Flame Tiger. It also explores the idea that people and events are not fixed, and circumstances can change drastically based on individual actions.
Volumes
The light novel series consists of three volumes:
- Volume 1 introduces the main character, Princess That, and sets the stage for her third loop. It establishes her difficult past and the beginning of new relationships with the Golden Dragon and Flame Tiger.
- Volume 2 delves deeper into the princess’s relationships, as she navigates the attention of the Flame Tiger and a foreign prince.
- Volume 3 focuses on the secret behind the time loops and features a plot where the emperor is turned into a child, leading the princess on a quest to undo the curse.
What to Expect in the Final Volume
With the seventh volume concluding the manga adaptation, fans can anticipate:
- Resolution of Story Arcs: The final volume will likely tie up any loose ends and provide closure to the main storylines, including the princess’s relationships and her quest for a name.
- Emotional Moments: Given the series’ emphasis on heartwarming relationships, expect emotional moments as the characters reach the culmination of their journeys.
- Satisfying Conclusion: Readers hope for a satisfying conclusion that sees the princess finally breaking free from her cycle of abuse and finding lasting happiness.
A Beloved Series
Third Loop: The Nameless Princess and the Cruel Emperor has captured the hearts of readers with its engaging storyline, lovable characters, and themes of resilience and love. As the manga adaptation draws to a close, fans eagerly await the final volume to see how the princess’s journey concludes.