Square Enix’s Manga UP! Global service has expanded its library with the addition of two new manga series, offering fans a diverse range of stories. The Banished Saint’s Pilgrimage: From Dying to Thriving and Rokurei: The Anti-Exorcism Division are now available on the platform, introducing readers to tales of perseverance and paranormal mysteries.
The Banished Saint’s Pilgrimage: A Journey of Unexpected Healing
A Saint’s Cruel Fate
The Banished Saint’s Pilgrimage: From Dying to Thriving, written by Komugi Awaya, is an adaptation of Machibari’s 2022 light novel series. The story centers around Princess Platina, a devoted saint who, despite enduring mistreatment within her kingdom, is dealt a devastating blow – she has a terminal illness. Her stepsister, adding insult to injury, orders her to undertake a harsh pilgrimage to the Holy Land, effectively banishing her from the royal court.
An Unlikely Companion
Forced to accompany Platina on this perilous journey is Eisen, a captive knight. His role is not to protect, but to act as both attendant and witness to her impending death. This sets the stage for a compelling dynamic between the two characters, as they navigate the challenges of their imposed pilgrimage. The narrative explores their evolving relationship amidst a backdrop of a journey filled with uncertainty and self-discovery.
From Dying to Thriving
The manga’s intriguing premise lies in the transformation of Princess Platina. Instead of succumbing to her illness, the pilgrimage inexplicably leads to her becoming healthier and more robust. This twist adds an element of hope and intrigue to the story, as readers follow Platina’s unexpected path to wellness, and wonder what will happen to her and Eisen as they continue on their journey.
The manga launched on Square Enix’s Gangan Online website in September 2023, and the second compiled book volume is scheduled for publication on February 12, 2025. The global platform, Manga UP!, started publishing the series on Thursday, January 23, 2025.
Rokurei: Bridging the Worlds of the Living and the Dead
Investigating the Supernatural
Rokurei: The Anti-Exorcism Division, created by Jinushi, is a buddy cop mystery drama that delves into the world of spiritual incidents. In this story, the government has established the Sixth Sense Department’s Anti-Exorcism Division to tackle the increasing number of ghostly phenomena. Rather than resorting to traditional exorcism, the department acts as a bridge between the living and the dead, working as mediums to resolve issues without violence.
A Unique Approach to the Paranormal
This series stands out for its approach to the supernatural. Instead of focusing on combat, Rokurei emphasizes mediation and understanding, offering a different perspective on dealing with spirits. The story promises to be an engaging mix of mystery and drama, as the protagonists navigate the complexities of the spirit world, offering a more nuanced look at the traditional exorcism trope. The story unfolds through the interactions of a “ghost girl” and a “cowardly medium”, creating a compelling dynamic that drives the narrative.
Jinushi’s Previous Work
Jinushi, the author of Rokurei, is also known for “Smoking Behind the Supermarket with You.” This previous work has garnered a following and has created excitement for this new series. The manga started in Square Enix’s Big Gangan magazine in 2022, and as of July 2024, Square Enix had published the manga’s fifth volume. Manga UP! Global began publishing Rokurei on Friday, January 24, 2025.
Manga UP! Global: A Growing Platform
Manga UP! Global is the international version of the popular Japanese manga service. It primarily features titles published by Square Enix, alongside series from other publishers that were previously published by Square Enix in Japan, and those that have not been published in English before. The service offers a variety of genres, ensuring a wide range of options for readers. The platform also includes original works, many of which are adaptations of other media.
The Manga UP! service launched in Japan in January 2017 and the English version was launched in July 2022. Since then, the platform has grown to include over 100 series, with new titles being added regularly. Some of the other popular titles on the app include, The Apothecary Diaries, The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten and Toilet-bound Hanako-kun.
Accessibility
Manga UP! Global can be accessed through its website and mobile app on both iOS and Android devices. This makes it easy for readers to enjoy their favorite manga anytime, anywhere. The app offers a vault pass which gives subscribers access to additional content, and new content is added to the platform regularly.
The Surge of Exorcist Manga
The release of Rokurei adds to the increasing number of manga featuring supernatural and exorcism themes. This genre has been a staple of Japanese manga for a long time with some of the most popular series involving these tropes. Many believe this trend is due to the popularity of series such as Jujutsu Kaisen and Demon Slayer. These series have achieved significant commercial success, and have inspired many mangaka to follow the trend. The theme of humans battling powerful demonic entities provides a versatile template for battle-shonen manga.
The success of these series also reflects the deep-rooted connection between spiritualism and Japanese culture. Folklore tales of priests and warriors vanquishing evil spirits have been a part of Japan for a long time and this has naturally woven its way into popular culture including manga and anime.
Conclusion
The addition of The Banished Saint’s Pilgrimage: From Dying to Thriving and Rokurei: The Anti-Exorcism Division to Manga UP! Global expands the platform’s diverse library, offering compelling new stories for readers. Both series explore intriguing themes with unique characters, setting them apart from other manga series. As the manga landscape continues to grow, platforms like Manga UP! Global play an important role in bringing a variety of manga to an international audience.
