By: Rumiko Takahashi
Rating: ★★★☆☆
Series: MAO [マオ] (#2)
Summary: EXORCISE YOUR DESTINY
When Nanoka is transported back in time to a supernatural early 20th century, she gets recruited by aloof exorcist Mao. What thread of fate connects them? Together, they seek answers...and kick some demon butt along the way!
Nanoka, Mao, and his helper Otoya investigate the strange cult of Priestess Shoko in hopes of bringing her to justice, but cursed dolls and scrolls of eternal life may be more than they bargained for. Will the priestess’s doomsday prophecy come true? Back in the present, Nanoka and friend-zoned Shiraha do some historical research that uncovers a cataclysmic event yet to occur in Mao’s timeline. Then Mao’s curiosity gets him on the wrong side of a group of bloodsuckers and in need of a rescue by Nanoka—again!
Review: While investigating the strange cult of Priestess Shoko, Nanoka, Mao, and their helper Otoya come across cursed dolls and scrolls of eternal life, but they aren’t ready for the unexpected revelation they encounter. Is the priestess’ doomsday prophecy true? In the present day, Nanoka and Shiraha conduct historical research that uncovers a cataclysmic event for Mao’s era. When Mao’s curiosity gets the better of him, Nanoka rescues him again from a group of bloodsuckers!
Similar to Inuyasha, this series features a modern girl time-traveling to meet an immortal young man with supernatural powers. As with manga, it’s also more plot-driven than episodic. There is considerably less ambient humor in this series compared to most Takahashi series, since Mao is a more mature individual. The series includes a few running gags and subtly portrays Otoya’s behavior as hilarious.
Also, I see a bit of influence from the popular Demon Slayer series.
Despite its simplicity, the setup is mysterious. We do not know why Biyori cursed Mao and someone has manipulated Nanoka’s memories, which suggests that those she lives with may not be trustworthy. Another possibility is that Biyori is being manipulated by a greater evil. Understanding his true motives will be the key to unraveling Nanoka’s altered memories.
The manga is doing well, but the future installments will determine the creator’s direction.
As a whole, Mao Vol. 2 is like the previous installment, with a slight plot improvement. The pacing of the story is pretty good, and the artwork remains impressive. I’m looking forward to the conclusion of this series.