We’re finally back for more Tokyo Babylon, where danger constantly awaits — alongside promising glimpses of love, humor, and heartwarming relationships that are forged in the most unlikely places. So, without further delay, let’s dive right into our thoughts on the newest volume of the classic, re-release from Yen Press!

The Plot

In Volume 4 of Tokyo Babylon, the bustling energy of Tokyo conceals a darker underbelly as Subaru Sumeragi, the thirteenth head of his clan and a potent onmyouji, faces a new supernatural challenge. While working on an art assignment at a shrine, he encounters a woman hell-bent on revenge for a crime that has long gone unpunished.

This meeting sets Subaru on a path that tests his moral compass, ultimately forcing him to choose between delivering justice and offering salvation. And similarly to the groundwork the series has offered readers, we get more explorations of complex emotions while delving into the consequences of one's wishes and the often harrowing impact of vengeance.

The Characters

Subaru remains the core of this volume, showcasing his growth as both a powerful onmyouji and an undeniably compassionate individual. His internal struggle is palpable in this isolated incident as he wrestles with the desire to help the tormented soul while grappling with the implications of her quest for revenge.

This ultimately begs the timeless hero question for our protagonist — how do you handle the realization that you can’t save everyone? While some of the other characters (like his sister and Seishirou Sakurazuka) do pop up to expand the story’s reach, this definitely feels like it’s mainly used to expand Subaru’s narrative.

The Art

The artwork in Tokyo Babylon continues to capture the duality of the city—its ethereal beauty juxtaposed against its shadowy depths around every populated corner. The detailed backgrounds and character aesthetics (from injuries to emotions) create an immersive atmosphere that enhances the story’s depiction of longing, love, and despair.

Themes and Symbolism

This time around, the volume explores themes such as the moral complexities of justice and vengeance, the weight of unfulfilled wishes, and the struggle between duty and desire. Subaru's encounters serve as a metaphor for the broader human experience—how our pursuit of retribution can cloud our judgment and hinder our capacity for compassion. And its done rather effectively!

The shrine serves as a symbolic space where the past and present intersect, representing the importance of reflection in the pursuit of closure for these volume-centric stories. The volume also subtly critiques societal structures that allow injustice to persist, serving as a poignant reminder of the need for introspection and deeper conversations around a topic that has been prevalent for far too long.

The Verdict

Tokyo Babylon Volume 4 deepens the series' emotional and philosophical explorations — bringing the challenges of navigating morality in a complex world to the forefront. Check out the Yen Press title here!