Aka Akasaka, the renowned creator behind the hit series Oshi no Ko, has made a notable comeback with the launch of his latest work, Märchen Crown, available on MANGA Plus. This new manga marks a significant pivot towards a fantasy theme, with artistic collaboration from Ajichika, known for the acclaimed Record of Ragnarok.
In the inaugural chapter, readers are introduced to Rapunzel, a character who begins to explore the world beyond her isolated tower with the help of Mikel, a new friend and potential love interest. True to Akasaka’s storytelling style, Rapunzel soon uncovers unsettling truths about Mikel, setting the stage for an intense personal journey.
Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for the series.
New Beginnings: Märchen Crown Debuts on MANGA Plus
Following the conclusion of his beloved series last November, Aka Akasaka has returned to the manga scene with Märchen Crown. This new initiative continues to showcase Ajichika’s artistic prowess, further expanding on the compelling visuals he is known for in Record of Ragnarok.
The narrative in the debut chapter portrays Rapunzel as she resides in a mystical tower, guarded by a witch who forbids her from venturing out. As her relationship with Mikel deepens, Rapunzel begins to entertain the idea of escaping her confinement, leading her to accompany Mikel to his village. What she finds there—skeletons and monstrous beings—takes a dark turn, leaving readers intrigued and unsettled at the chapter’s end, consistent with Akasaka’s penchant for dramatic storytelling.
The Enduring Influence of Aka Akasaka
Aka Akasaka has emerged as a prominent figure in modern manga, gaining acclaim particularly for works such as the romantic comedy Kaguya-sama and the idol drama Oshi no Ko. His series are celebrated for their innovative takes on traditional tropes and the engaging development of characters that often lead to organic, emotionally charged drama.
Despite his success, Akasaka has faced criticism regarding the conclusions of some of his stories, with the endings of both Kaguya-sama and Oshi no Ko sparking widespread debate among fans. The recent conclusion of Oshi no Ko has left followers eager to see how Märchen Crown will unfold and whether it will meet their expectations.