An accurate psychological depiction of humans accompanied by masterful world-building and characters.

Nogi Wakaba wa Yuusha de Aru, NoWaYu, is one of the best things I have come across. Let's get that straight. It is an independent part of the Yuuki Yuuna franchise that features different characters and is done masterfully. To begin with, it's short and concise; wasting no time in delivering its story. Most pages in this light novel are relevant and are necessary for the sake of progression. This review assumes that you have read the synopsis and are aware that the basic concept is a world wherein a select few heroes undertake the role of fighting evil forces to save their world.

The concept is not particularly unique in itself but the execution is very unique. This story realistically depicts its characters and naturally progresses the story. The events are very logical and flow with the nature of the characters and the setting. Essentially, this allows for an emotionally resonant story that allows you to connect with all the characters. The line between "good and evil" is blurred and causes you to contemplate what side you root for. There is a well-executed story that centers around defeating evil and retaking what is theirs but the point of this light novel is to depict the human psyche in relation to its surroundings. One minor complaint I had was that the outcomes of the fights were determined by illogical factors at times. Luckily, this issue resolved itself throughout the course of the novel.

The setting is one of the strongest points of NoWaYu. It's wonderful. Very wonderful. The world of NoWaYu is a large one. It starts off as a secluded one, as is typical for many apocalyptic settings. It is impossible to know where one is and what dangers lie beyond. However, this world is thoroughly explored in a masterful way. This means that, as the story develops, the world around the main cast expands. The condition of living beings around them is explored, the natural resources remaining are depicted wonderfully. An entire world is created and expressed in such a manner that it is easy to imagine every nook and corner of it. It is a colorful world reverberating all its details back at the viewer. To add to this, this world is explored through many angles and different perspectives. A handful of characters are put into the spotlight, which serves as an excellent tool to express their perception of the world around them.

Needless to say, with such a deep look into the human psyche, it is accompanied by flawless themes, the aspect that truly elevates this into a masterpiece. Jealously, depression, fear, happiness, acceptance are but a few of the topics that are dwelled into. The characters are extremely realistic and behave in a way you could see yourself and many people alike behave in. Their jealously is justified and understood. The skepticism against the jealously is also justifiable and understandable. All perspectives are accountable for and reasonable, even if not supported. The characters constantly face difficult choices that truly showcase their true selves. It is rather explicit that the characters are top-notch. They develop severely, have every nook and corner of them explored, and are genuine.

What more can I say? NoWaYu is a masterpiece that explores many vital human emotions and expresses them in a genuine manner. It is masked as a typical Mahou Shoujo novel that uses its cover to shine. The characters are thoroughly explored and the apocalyptic theme serves as a catalyst to create an expansive and detailed world. It is a short read that I recommend everyone to read.