Legend of the Accidental Sword Saint: Playing the Mentor from the Sidelines

by TATAL and Masuda Mikio.

You’d think being in a fantasy world full of sword-wielding heroes and ferocious monsters would make one yearn for the role of hero: to be the one who saves the day through epic skill and weapon wizardry. But for one man who finds himself reincarnated into such a land, being the hero is not so appealing. Why not just revel in the glory of being the best—and being the one to train the best—while saving one’s hide in the process? With this plan in mind, he gets to work training in the art of swordplay, determined to become the mentor any hero would cherish. Unfortunately, the mentor-to-be’s confidence takes a hit when, despite years of arduous training, a battle with a weak little squirrel monster makes him nearly lose his life. Won only by the skin of his teeth, the battle sparks an idea: Why not just fake it? He could bring a young apprentice under his wing and then split before his lack of talent could be discovered! However, this mentor-to-be is unaware of how incredibly strong all monsters in this world are, regardless of size—so strong, in fact, that no single swordsman can take one on themselves and end the battle alive. Can a conman truly con if he is actually as good as he says?

Trapezium

by Kazumi Takayama and tae.

Azuma Yuu is a high schooler with big dreams of becoming an idol—by any means necessary! Chasing fame is no easy task, but she’s not afraid to put in the work and starts befriending girls from every corner of the prefecture to create her ideal group. It’s not long before people start taking notice of the newfound idols, and suddenly, opportunities seem to just fall into their laps. 

While her friends celebrate their good fortune, the truth is Yuu is working hard behind the scenes to get them on every stage possible. Researching locations, timing each appearance just right, and hustling hard to keep her dream alive—while also performing and practicing! As the stages grow bigger and the pressure mounts, Yuu has to face the harsh reality that carrying the group’s success on her own has a toll. One misstep could cost her everything if she can’t figure out the secret to success. But can she face the darker realities of idol life, or will she fall just short of fame?