Lone Wolf and Cub: Cloud Dragon, Wind Tiger

The ronin samurai assassin soap opera continues, with Koike's storytelling introducing us to yet more facets of the romantic if bloody Edo period of feudal Japan. By way of plot devices we're introduced to a variety of fascinating concepts, from skilful tactics and swordplay, through prostitution in wayside inns, down to the legal loopholes allowing the public flogging of a three-year-old child (poor Diagoro, the Cub of the title).

Koike's plots and scripts are as tight as ever, binding with Kojima's art to create a coherent whole. Diagoro plays a leading role in two of the five stories collected here, adding a sentimental element to the swordplay and bloodshed, some of which is particularly graphic.

Standards are maintained at a high level. A newcomer will want to purchase its predecessors first, but a fan of the series is, as ever, unlikely to be disappointed.

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