My review:
The narrative initially had a somewhat sluggish beginning, revolving around a young boy's attempt to forge a romantic connection with a vampire girl, aspiring for her bite to transform him into a vampire as well. However, as the series progressed, the plot underwent a gradual evolution with the introduction of new characters, leading to the intricate development of the Hokkaido arc.
In my opinion, the Hokkaido arc stands out as the pinnacle of the manga. The meticulous effort invested in crafting the arc's setting is truly commendable, and its conclusion resonates as a beautifully executed finale. The narrative intricacies, combined with the emotive conclusion, elevate this particular arc to a distinguished status within the series.
The strength of the manga undeniably lies in its well-crafted characters. Notably, Kiku and Anko emerge as shining examples of superb character development, with their respective story arcs demonstrating a level of artistry in storytelling.
And now, addressing the culmination of the series—the ending. In the concluding arc, a poignant revelation occurs as both characters, Nazuna and Kou, come to the profound realization of their love for each other. However, this newfound understanding is overshadowed by the inherent complexities of their situation. Nazuna, no longer able to extract blood from Kou, and the subsequent gradual acknowledgment that their union is unattainable, added a poignant layer to the narrative that, for me, was truly heart-wrenching to navigate.
The connection between Kou and Nazuna has been a source of unadulterated joy for me throughout the series, making the realization that their love couldn't culminate in a conventional happily-ever-after particularly difficult to accept. Witnessing the unraveling of their bond in the final chapters was undeniably painful for me as a reader.
Yet, paradoxically, this emotional distress is one of the reasons I found the ending deeply satisfying. The emotional weight and realism injected into the narrative added a layer of authenticity, making the resolution more impactful and genuine.
Summing up the conclusion in a single word, I would choose 'simple.' Despite the intricate emotions and complex relationships explored throughout the series, the resolution itself opted for a straightforward approach, allowing the authenticity of the characters' experiences to shine through. Following their separation, Nazuna chooses to retreat to the North, intending to remain there until the intensity of her feelings for Kou gradually diminishes. After a passage of three years, Kou, spurred by a profound yearning, embarks on a quest to find her. Their eventual reunion becomes the poignant conclusion of the manga. In a heartfelt moment, Kou reveals that he has spent the time honing his skills to become stronger, envisioning a future where they can be together. The final panel captures them reclining on the snow, engaged in a serene conversation.
For me, this conclusion is immensely satisfying and represents the pinnacle of Kotoyama's storytelling prowess. The decision to conclude the narrative with a moment of reconnection and the promise of a shared future beautifully encapsulates the essence of their relationship.
While the bittersweet reality of bidding farewell to one of my favorite manga is undeniable, the sense of contentment prevails. The well-crafted ending imparts a profound sense of closure, ensuring that the characters' journeys come full circle, leaving readers with a lasting impression. Despite the melancholy associated with the series' conclusion, the overarching sentiment is one of happiness, as the manga bows out with a fitting and optimistic resolution.
My score, is 9/10.
Goodbye Call of the Night.
Thank you, Kotoyamaa
