“At a Romanian dig site over a decade ago, a group of archaeologists unwittingly unleashed a horror straight from the depths of hell. An ancient virus emerged from the tomb of a sleeping giant, transforming the team into murderous, wolf-like monsters. As outbreaks of wolf virus now pepper the globe-helped along by agents of one known as the “Wolf King” -Teze Yoo and the other survivors of that bloody expedition may be the key to curbing global disaster-provided their adversary doesn't hunt them down first!” (Yen Press)
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The first volume of “King of Eden” marked one of my favorite releases of 2020, with a unique take on a zombie like virus. Granted my first impression was more zombie than ancient werewolf, the world building off of political intrigue and anthropology continues to expand in a engrossing manner. Consequently, volume two hits all the high notes of the inaugural release, while deepening the lore of the world it inhabits.
Further proving the commitment to create a vast spanning narrative, Takashi Nagasaki takes a step back from the horror elements that dominated the initial release to focus on the origins and implications of the spreading global pandemic. As a result, the horror and gore are tuned down to allow the story to set the framework of the oncoming worldwide crisis, a conflict driven by political corruption and terrorism. Additionally, we learn more about how the origin of the virus turned the mysterious figure of Teze Yoo into the “King of Saturday”, a prophesized hero to fight the ancient evil controlling the virus.
As far as narrative growth goes, Teze Yoo is pushed into the spotlight with his mysterious nature in the first release transforming into a head strong and determined hero with a determined goal. A welcome switch, as Yoo's morality gives a grounding humanitarian perspective to keep the narrative grounded. An impressive feat given his powers and withdrawn demeanor. Overall, the volume is exemplary in its handling of an expansive world and lore.
The art of Ignito stays a steady draw to the series, with his ability to give character to every persona in keeping the massive ‘cast' recognizable and the story comprehensible. Additionally, the pairing of the Korean manhwa artist with Japanese author still creates an interesting dynamic of style that is difficult to quantify, but apparent in the experience. There is a degree of disappointment that Ignito does not get to flex his ability to capture horror as much as in volume 1, but with escalating conflict a return to a ‘horror-centric' art feels inevitable .
From Yen Press, each volume comes in an omnibus version which feels essential for conveying such an intricate narrative. I am absolutely ecstatic for the next volume to release, whether it be heavier focused on drama or horror, Nagasaki and Ignito have created one of the most exciting horror titles in recent memory. If you like your horror with deep narrative substance, “King of Eden” will be a great addition to your horror library.
