Himari Azuma deserves to place first in a popularity poll at least once.

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Synopsis

Yuuki Wakura and Shushu Suruga escape from the Eight Thunder Gods’ stronghold and return alive. The Anti-Demon Corps prepares for the decisive battle against the Eight Thunder Gods.

Bonus Manga: Himari Azuma’s Reward

When it comes to the highlights unique to the tankōbon, it’s the removal of the mysterious beams of light and this newly drawn happiness chapter, so let’s talk about that right away.

This time, the one providing the reward—just as was teased in the Jump+ PR—is Himari Azuma.

The situation is something that seems to be trendy inside Himari’s head lately: sleeping together in nothing but a dress shirt (did this first appear back around chapter 148, during the general commander election?). Chronology-wise, it takes place around chapters 166–167, when Himari’s older sister Yachiyo is going through some emotional growth (after nearly having her brain fried from once peeking in on her little sister’s happiness time).

While the big sister’s brain is getting shattered off-screen, the little sister is off doing this.

The content itself is the same kind of “unconscious service” Yuuki Wakura gives Shushu Suruga in chapter 161 of this volume… but for the details, pick up the comic and see with your own eyes!

Other Thoughts

Continuing from the previous volume, we get a small reward scene with Haruno Kue, who joined the Seventh Unit, and that alone is just the best. Thanks to that, I can start this year feeling energized. Much appreciated.

Speaking of maternal characters, I also really liked the scene where refugee Naon imagines wanting to heal Yuuki—the glimpse of her maternal side there was great. You can never have too many motherly characters: Haruno Kue, Fubuki Azuma, and Naon. Wonderful.

Wrapping Up

All in all, volume 20 is packed with highlights. As you would expect, I highly recommend it.

'Chained Soldier' Volume 20
'Chained Soldier' Volume 20
Yuuki and Shushu are taken away to Yomotsu Oyama, the Eight Thunder Gods' main stronghold. Spending his days as the focus of the gods' favor, Yuuki searches for a way to escape and discovers a gigantic mountain gate. Will his burning feelings for Kyoka carve out a path of blood?! The day when Izanami, the mother of the gods, awakens is drawing near...!?

Here’s hoping that this year brings us plenty of happiness, not just in manga but in anime as well. See you next time.