Of Swords and Parasols

Ever since the rich Kogami family disappeared 15 years ago, Kuroishi Megumi and his father, the family butler, have been living in their mansion and living off their fortune. Megumi’s father, however, has never stopped looking for the Kogamis, and finally learns that while the master and his wife died, their daughter, Suzuka was adopted by a Chinese family. When she’s returned to the Kogami estate, Megumi is overcome with absolute adoration of Suzuka and wants to cater to her every whim. His father then tells them that centuries ago, a thief from the Kuroishi family tried to rob the Kogami family, and was cursed so that a hundred generations of his descendants would be loyal servants of the Kogami family. Since Megumi hasn’t been around the Kogami’s for most of his life, he has no control over the surges of devotion caused by the curse.

Suzuka’s reaction to all this, thankfully, is along the lines of “Free-will robbing curse! Do not want! Must break curse!” Unfortunately, though the manga claims otherwise, it never really comes across to me that Megumi’s love is a result of anything but the curse, making most of the romantic and dramatic scenes a bit uncomfortable for me. Which is unfortunate, as it has all the kinks you could ask for, and a few you wouldn’t think of.

This is, I believe, the debut series of Matsuri Hino (Vampire Knight, MeruPuri). Unfortunately, it seems that her books just don’t quite click with me. Most other fans of any combination of Kaori Yuki, Higuri You and Clamp seem to also love Matsuri Hino’s works. I can see why, but the same things that make me go “WHEE!” for varying reasons with those three often leave me cold or uncomfortable with her works. I can see why others like her so much, it just doesn’t work for me. So people who normally like her manga will probably like this one, too.