about the book
A broad-shouldered young man with no name awakens in a field to find his face covered with an ominous mouthless mask, called a Kamen. The mask, a sentient female entity, tells him that they are now forever bound together, and if he removes the mask, they both will perish. If he continues to wear it, he will be given great powers, though he will no longer be able to speak and will have no need to eat. With no alternative, a simple truce develops between the two.
At first, he wanders this alternate ancient feudal Japan, but then he allows himself to be captured by a passing military convoy and is taken to the Jiguzah Fortress with many other prisoners. Instead of being executed, Lord Simba, the compassionate leader and general of the fortress, allows the prisoners to live and labor within the walled fort. However, don’t think this is one wimpy vulnerable gal; she is a tough-as-nails warrior admired by her samurai and soldiers. She is just passionate about protecting others, even if it means political suicide!
When her uncle arrives, he demands that she kill all prisoners, stating that allowing them to live makes her appear weak. He begins with one small sick girl, an orphan, but before the blade can slice her neck, the masked man grabs the child. His touch gives her life, and as she clings to his neck, he immediately feels some secret power within her. Protecting her with his every martial arts skill, he battles barehanded against katanas and crossbows, though he never takes another’s life. Through this all, the mask guides him; but while she acts out of survival, he acts out of compassion. His will is his own and he does what he wants.
Lord Simba is impressed by the masked man and gives him freedom to roam the fortress. But who is he…and what is he? Since he obviously holds great Nen powers, she keeps him close. Though at times he seems youthful and naïve, he is an ally that will be very helpful in the coming days. The fortress is facing a siege as the much larger conquering Zoraiden army advances steadily toward them!
about the author/illustrator
The author and illustrator of this doujinshi (indie manga), Mihara Gunya, is a real mystery man…or woman. Hours of research revealed nothing about this author’s origins or personal life.
What can be said is that Mihara’s illustrations are unique, artsy, and expressive. Drawn in stark tones, often using unusual angles, it evokes a traditional Japanese woodcut aesthetic.
Mihara could have emphasized fantasy elements in Kamon but instead simplified as much as he could, removing anything that could distract from the reader’s focus on the characters. Though it seems nowadays that most manga go into great detail in the backgrounds, in Gunya’s art, at times, even the backgrounds are non-existent!
The writer/illustrator has honed the story, the plot, the individuals, the political concerns, the military tactics, and the battles. It is an alternate ancient Japanese world (maybe about 1400s to 1600s) that contains the traditional Samurai warrior but presents names that are almost Middle Eastern.
All this makes the story move quickly and enhances the setting’s barren, war-torn atmosphere. Definitely, there is more to Mihara Gunya—and we hope to see more of this artist!
Sources:
Book review: Major Spoilers
“Cheers for Kamen”: Anime Nation
Book Trailer: Anime Nation
Also by Mihara Gunya:
Kamen : 2. Gen Manga Entertainment. 2014.
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