Ajin: Demi-Human: A Deep Dive
An exploration of what makes Zankyou no Terror an essential manga.
Story Summary
Zankyou no Terror, also known as Terror in Resonance, is a suspenseful manga (and anime) that follows the story of two enigmatic teenagers known only as Nine and Twelve. These two are the members of a terrorist organization called Sphinx. They orchestrate a series of bombings in Tokyo, leaving cryptic clues online for the police to decipher. Their goal isn't simply destruction; they aim to expose the dark secrets lurking within the Japanese government and awaken society from its complacency.
The story begins with a devastating bombing in Tokyo's metropolitan government building. The only clue left behind is a video posted online containing riddles and symbols that hint at their next target. As the police struggle to understand the motives behind Sphinx's actions, a young woman named Lisa Mishima finds herself caught in their web. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she encounters Nine and Twelve, and is ultimately drawn into their dangerous game.
As Sphinx continues their attacks, the police force, led by the troubled detective Kenjirou Shibazaki, race against time to stop them. Shibazaki, a brilliant but disillusioned officer, begins to unravel the truth behind Nine and Twelve's motives, discovering a dark history connected to a secret government experiment.
Key Characters
- Nine (Arata Kokonoe): The calm and intellectual strategist of Sphinx. He is highly intelligent and capable of hacking and planning intricate operations.
- Twelve (Toji Hisami): The more playful and outwardly expressive member of Sphinx. He possesses a unique ability called synesthesia, allowing him to "see" sounds and is skilled at driving and handling explosives.
- Lisa Mishima: A troubled high school student who gets entangled with Nine and Twelve. She becomes an accomplice and is forced to confront her own personal struggles while caught in the crossfire of Sphinx's actions.
- Kenjirou Shibazaki: A former detective who was demoted to the records division. He is brought back into the fold to investigate the bombings and becomes Nine and Twelve's primary adversary.
- Five: An American operative who has ties to Nine and Twelve's past and serves as a formidable antagonist. She is obsessed with Nine and sees Sphinx's actions as a personal affront.
Thematic and Narrative Analysis
Zankyou no Terror explores several complex themes, including the nature of terrorism, the ethics of government secrecy, and the trauma of childhood experimentation. The manga uses the backdrop of a modern-day Tokyo to examine the fragility of society and the consequences of unchecked power.
The narrative is driven by suspense and mystery, with each bombing unveiling more about Nine and Twelve's past and their ultimate goals. The series excels at creating morally ambiguous characters, challenging the audience to question their own perceptions of right and wrong. Nine and Twelve, despite their actions, are portrayed as victims of a system that has failed them, blurring the lines between terrorist and freedom fighter.
The relationship between Nine, Twelve, and Lisa is central to the story. Lisa's character provides a human element to the narrative, showcasing the devastating impact of Sphinx's actions on ordinary people. The dynamic between the three is complex and fraught with tension, as they navigate the dangers of their situation while grappling with their own emotional scars.
The manga's art style is distinct and visually striking, capturing the atmosphere of suspense and paranoia. The detailed backgrounds and expressive character designs contribute to the overall immersive experience.
Chapter Breakdown (Illustrative)
While a precise chapter-by-chapter breakdown requires a full reading of the manga (or watching the anime, which closely follows the same plot), here's a general overview of how the story unfolds across its run:
- Early Chapters: Introduction of Nine and Twelve, the first bombings, and Lisa's involvement. Establishment of the central mystery and the police investigation.
- Mid Chapters: Unveiling of clues, exploration of Shibazaki's past, and the introduction of Five. Heightened tension as the stakes escalate.
- Later Chapters: Revelation of the Athena Plan (the secret government experiment), confrontation with Five, and the ultimate showdown. Resolution of the central conflict and the fates of Nine, Twelve, and Lisa.
Each "chapter" or episode (if referencing the anime) typically ends with a cliffhanger, pushing the narrative forward and keeping the audience engaged.