Brilliant.

I have read this (Basara) manga even before I got into yaoi and there's this particular scene when they (Sarasa and Ageha) were with the prisoners (I think) and Sarasa was still Tatara at that time. And the prisoners were kinda 'smelled' a woman among them and it was Ageha who stood for Sarasa and let himself be used (fucked) by men. I understand that it was part of his life, being a dancer and performer/entertainer as he travels with his group, but that time I haven't grasped what the extent of what he did for Sarasa. I think he really loved Sarasa, as much as one can love a family member closer to your most important person in life. I think Ageha sees Sarasa as a salvation of sort, not only for himself but for a lot of people. Ageha always provided every support he can and protected Sarasa as best as he could. He (Ageha) is my most favorite character, after him, on almost equal term, are Sarasa and the Red King.

Basara is one of those stories that makes you look back how hard life is before all this advance technology yet it shows you that living/surviving does not depend on what life has but on how we tackle and live our lives. This story is politically-showered/challenged and most characters are, in a way, sullied by the way people of authority runs the country.

Ending was bittersweet but none less realistic. After one survival, there's another hurdle to overcome not just for our main characters but for most of them. This story has wisdom on every turn, words filled with truth and sharpness that it will sting you but it will also open your eyes. While this was set historically, it is not too different with the modern world. Basara in itself is a continuous lesson, one that you'll find yourself adapting.

Truly, truly a great read! A must have adventure!!!!