Set in the Katovana Empire, which has been divided into three by a military coup, this is the seventh film in the series in which protagonists Ikuta and his childhood friend Yatri clash on the battlefield as members of opposing forces. This film depicts the moments when the fortunes of the protagonists change drastically as friendship and betrayal, strategy and intrigue intersect.
The themes of this story are the inevitability of fate and the power of the human will. Ikuta and Yatri follow their respective beliefs and loyalties, but are at the mercy of the inevitable fate. Their decisions determine the course of the story, and this film shows just how powerful human will can be over destiny.
The highlight is the sequence in which Ikuta secures the custody of the imperial emperor. His plan takes an unexpected turn due to the machinations of his retainer Torinai ・・・. In particular, the climactic scene in which he confronts Yatori is one of the best scenes in this film, as it skillfully expresses the changes in their relationship and their internal struggles.
I was particularly moved by the scenes in which Ikuta and Yatori do their best in their respective positions. I was impressed by their strong will and courage to face their fate, the newspaper said, and I was also drawn to the intricate political movements and the depth of the characters' psychological descriptions.
Overall, this book is not only interesting as a real fantasy war chronicle, but also fascinating as a human drama. After reading it, it will make you think deeply about what fate is and what will is.