Ichiro Kunishito, a Public Security Inspector, and Shiro Hanabusa, lieutenant of the Minegami family, continue their charade of being in a relationship while actually being bound together by their search for Rion Nakaba. Rion, who is Ichiro’s mentor and Shiro’s ‘older sister’ from their time in an orphanage, disappeared three years ago, and the case has gone cold. In their investigation, they have identified four individuals who are the grown-up children of prominent politicians and potentially linked to a terrorist bomb blast that killed Ichiro’s parents and other innocent people twenty years ago.
As they pursue a possible informant, they are hindered by a sniper who fatally shoots the informant and escapes before they can apprehend her. The death is reported as a suicide, leading Ichiro and Shiro to suspect manipulation by higher-ups in the news. Additionally, the mysterious woman in dark glasses who shot the informant has seen them and knows their identities. Meanwhile, Shiro, recovering from a fever, is contacted by his yakuza underlings to deal with someone embezzling their funds. However, after the mission, Shiro is kidnapped at gunpoint by the same woman in dark glasses.
Volume 3 of Yoshie Kaoruhara’s Kei X Yaku Bound by Law maintains a fast-paced and thrilling narrative that keeps readers engaged. The mangaka skillfully balances the action with moments of humor and teases the Boys’ Love aspects of the relationship between Ichiro and Shiro. The pacing and paneling are well-executed, with key reveals strategically placed for maximum impact.
Leo McDonagh’s translation and Dietrich Premier’s lettering contribute to the seamless reading experience of the manga. While there are no color illustrations, the cover designs by miche and Phil Balsman add to the series’ overall sophisticated look. Volume 4 is set to release in January, with Volume 5 following in March 2025, as the series continues with eleven volumes in Japan.
Overall, Kei X Yaku Bound by Law Volume 3 offers an exciting continuation of the series for fans of thrilling mysteries and complex relationships. If you enjoy the dynamic between Ichiro and Shiro and the intricate plot twists, this latest installment is a must-read.
