Smarg wa Utawanai

How much hate would you endure for the one you love? Smargs won't Sing tells the poignant story of two sisters, Iria and Chloe, who escaped death some three years ago when their village was destroyed by a Smarg in the shape of a dragon. Smargs are powerful mythical beings, unmatched and feared by humans. It is said, however, that one can make a contract with these creatures, whereby, if you abide by the rules, one is granted a single request. By cleverly alternating between present and past the reader slowly comes to understand the complicated relationship between the sisters, how they managed to survive and whyeach of them seems to be entirely unlike the other. Set during winter, the snowy environment contributes to the overall frigid atmosphere. The artwork, whereas not outstanding, is well done. Although occasionally minimalist, the characters appear vivid and consistent throughout the whole chapter. Often scenery and backgrounds, albeit eye-catching at times, would be left out. However, since, most of the time, one will be occupied with finding out more about Iria and Chloe, blank backgrounds and missing scenery won't stand out at all. That is to say said characters, the loyal and caring Chloe as well as the rude and cruel Iria, are doing a good job at keeping the reader interested and willing to learn more about their distinctive behavior and reasons, as one has to wonder how they turned out to be that way. In addition to the sisters there is a third seemingly important character, a nameless and mysterious boy, who witnesses the relationship between the two girls while he is passing through the village. Overall Smargs won't Sing is a well made One Shot, telling a moving story of the special bond between loving people, and both, the weaknesses and strengths of being human. Yet, as a One Shot, it does has its flaws, as it occasionally seems rushed, and some of the characters' actions could have needed better, thoroughly explained motives. One can also soon imagine how the tale is going to end, which slightly takes away from its suspense. Despite that, it still is a nice manga with a nice little story and I recommend it to everyone enjoying poignant, life-embracing short stories.