Last time on “Adhesive Squadron Kizuna Five!”
The Break-Up King, leader of the nefarious Relationship Enders, who seek to destroy the bonds between people and take over the world, finally appeared in his evil Cosmic Fortress, Shredskull. It’s up to the Adhesive Squadron, Kizuna Five, to defeat him once and for all. With the help of their trusted Kizuna Beasts, merged into the one and only Maximum Kizuna Kaiser, our heroes charged headfirst into the fray. However, just as they were about to board the fortress, an evil energy wave knocked back Maximum Kizuna Kaiser and only Kizuna Red made it on board.
With the power of his bonds giving him strength, he confronted the Break-Up King and defeated him, but paid the ultimate sacrifice in return. Now, he entrusts the future of the world to his dear friends. But what’s this? Kizuna Red is still alive? And in another world, no less. What new adventures and new bonds will be forged through this strange occurrence? Also, will Kizuna Red ever make it back to the Kizuna Five?
Episode 1: The Red Ranger and the Mage
Six months have passed since Asagaki Togo (aka Kizuna Red) arrived in this new world. He became an adventurer and traveled the land, helping those in need, and preserving the precious bonds he came across. Now he responds to a request from Yihdra Arvoln, the archmage. After defeating her golem with his signature Burning Kizuna Punch, they embark to the nearby ruins in search of mana metal for Yihdra’s magical research. As it turns out, her father used to hold the title of Royal Scepter. A position that oversaw the use and study of magic for the whole kingdom. She was inspired by his wish to use magic for the happiness of all. Until one day, he was defeated in ritual combat and banished from the capital. His replacement was not so benevolent, hoarding magic only for the rich and powerful and using it to subjugate the people.
Yihdra wants to reclaim the position of Royal Scepter and continue bringing happiness to people through magic. Togo is immediately enamored with Yihdra’s wish and promises to support her in any way he can. Eventually, they find a pile of mana metal guarded by a reptilian monster. Through the power of Red and Yihdra’s rushed friendship, they are able to summon Maximum Kizuna Kaiser. With their powers combined, and faith in their newly formed bond, Red and Yihdra (but mostly Red) unleash the Maximum Kizuna Blaster and defeat the monster. Mission complete!
Several days later, Togo meets Yihdra again. This time at the Adventurer’s Guild. Yihdra declares she has become an adventurer and is willing to form a part with Togo to observe his powers and perhaps discover a way to send him home. Togo is overjoyed and subsequently embarrasses Yihdra with his heartfelt outburst. What adventures await the Red Ranger and the Mage? Will they discover a way to send him back to his own world.
Overall Thoughts
The show seems to take inspiration from the tokusatsu genre of television, specifically from shows like Super Sentai and Kamen Rider. Known for their practical effects, colorful costumes, dynamic posing and super power moves. The genre is wholly detached from reality, and set in a fantasy where concepts that make less sense heighten the comedy and enjoyment. At the center of this comedy bit is Togo and Yihdra. Fans of tokusatsu will instantly gravitate to Togo’s infectious energy. While Yihdra reflects the confusion and befuddlement others have towards said fans. It’s a very entertaining dynamic to watch and sets expectations high for more hijinks along the way.
Tune in next week to “The Red Ranger Becomes an Adventurer in Another World!”
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