【Souei Sousho】An Oriental Palace Manga Depicting the Lives and Destinies of Two Boys!

Shou, a boy living as a beggar in a red-light district, is suddenly taken in by the imperial palace. The reason: he has been chosen to be the “double” for Crown Prince Kansei. In the conspiracy-ridden palace, can Shou protect the prince? The meeting of two boys with identical faces begins to change history—a story that unfolds in this manga.

Although the setting might seem like a common story of a double and a prince's friendship, unexpected developments keep coming. The artwork is adorable, and the characters' charm is sure to draw you in. In particular, the mutual influence between Shou and Kansei is marvelous. Shou, who feared death and pain, becomes ready to sacrifice his life for Kansei. Meanwhile, Kansei starts to care deeply about not losing Shou, drawing you further into their relationship.

The appeal of this story lies in the depiction of boys who, despite being buffeted by a harsh fate, have no choice but to accept it. They lack freedom of choice within the aristocratic society, and their impermanence and frustration resonate deeply. The portrayal of children suffering under the constraints of family, lineage, and history, yet striving to live true to themselves, is heart-wrenching.

Another charm is the nobility of the characters trying to make the best of their fate in a world where freedom is scarce. Kansei's character is particularly a critical hit, and his presence deepens the story. 'A future emperor who will later lead Toukoku to a thousand years of peace, and the tale of the one shadow who supported him.' The opening of this grand story is thrilling.

Although the double impersonator theme is common, the developments in this work exceed expectations, drawing readers in. The characters and artwork are catchy and easy to follow, which is a high point. This might be the most interesting manga I've read this year. I'm rooting for it as a work I'd like to keep following for the latest chapters.

In the Chinese-inspired world, Volume 1 follows Shou, an orphan from a red-light district, meeting the crown prince and undergoing training as his double, gradually learning about palace affairs. The shocking development at the end makes you realize that the story truly begins from Volume 2 onward. A suspenseful tale unfolds, set against a richly detailed backdrop of a fictional Chinese world with internal power struggles.

Volume 1 serves as a prologue, thoroughly explaining the story's setting. Shou, an orphan born in a red-light district, is taken in as the double of Crown Prince Kansei, who has an identical face, mimicking his actions and moving together. The harsh position of being the double of a crown prince whose life is targeted is depicted. Their internal power struggles and loneliness add depth to the story.

Time skips ahead, ending Volume 1 with a shocking conclusion. This development heightens expectations for the story from Volume 2 onward. Set against a Chinese-style backdrop, this work depicts the anguish of boys deprived of freedom while also highlighting their nobility and courage. It is a book to look forward to as its story and the charm of its characters draw readers in.