Tokyo Babylon, a beloved series by CLAMP, continues to weave its intricate tale of the supernatural and human emotions in its latest collection from Yen Press. And this one is perceived as a classic for a reason.

Plot

In Tokyo Babylon Volume 5, Subaru Sumeragi's journey as an onmyouji takes new and compelling turns. This volume, which includes chapters titled "Old," "Box," and "Rebirth," delves deeper into Subaru's life and the challenges he faces. One of the key storylines involves Subaru meeting an elderly man who shares his love for animals.

This newfound connection, however, leads Subaru into the heart of a troubled household with an unfulfilled wish that haunts his new friend. As Subaru delves into these supernatural mysteries, he must navigate the delicate balance between his duties and personal emotions.

Characters

Subaru Sumeragi remains the heart of the series, depicted as a compassionate and empathetic onmyouji — and his dedication to solving supernatural problems highlights his depth and resilience. The interactions with his twin sister, Hokuto, who brings a lively and supportive presence, and Seishiro, whose complex relationship with Subaru adds its own nuances, continue to enrich the narrative.

The introduction of the elderly man who shares Subaru's affinity for animals adds another layer of emotional complexity to the story, challenging Subaru to confront his own feelings and beliefs. Because it’s always important to introduce compelling side characters if you want to move the story forward. However, the ending does leave things with a sense of urgency — introducing a potentially bloody cliffhanger.

Art

CLAMP's artwork in Tokyo Babylon is as captivating as ever. The introspective or somber character designs effectively convey the emotional intensity of the story, giving them a tangible depiction of heavier emotions.

The supernatural elements are depicted with an elegant touch, enhancing the mysterious and ethereal atmosphere of the series — best witnessed through an emotional moment in a karaoke bar. As we’ve seen up to this point (or for a while now if you read the original releases) the visual storytelling seamlessly complements the narrative, making each scene important and memorable.

Themes and Symbolism

The themes of duty, personal desires, and the supernatural are deeply explored in this volume. Subaru's struggle to balance his responsibilities as an onmyouji with his personal life is a central theme, highlighting the inner conflicts he faces with this responsibility. The story of the elderly man and his troubled household serves as a metaphor for fears about the future (which it literally acknowledges head-on) and unresolved issues. This volume also delves into the importance of connections and how they can influence one's path and decisions.

Verdict

Tokyo Babylon Volume 5 is a powerful and emotionally charged addition to the series. Though, you might want to have a few tissues prepared, because these particular stories don’t exactly feel lighthearted.