Kei Sazane’s popular fantasy romance light novel series, Our Last Crusade or the Rise of a New World (Kimi to Boku no Saigo no Senjō, Aruiwa Sekai ga Hajimaru Seisen), is moving into its “final battle” phase, signaling the beginning of the end for the beloved saga. This development promises to bring the long-standing conflict between the scientifically advanced Empire and the Nebulis Sovereignty, alongside the intertwined destinies of Iska and Aliceliese, to a dramatic conclusion.
The Approaching Climax of a Grand War
The announcement that the Our Last Crusade or the Rise of a New World light novels are entering their “final battle” indicates a significant shift in the narrative, suggesting that the overarching conflict is heading towards its resolution. While not a declaration of the immediate final volume, it signals that the story’s main antagonists and central plotlines are converging for a decisive confrontation. Fans have long followed the intricate war and the burgeoning relationship between Empire swordsman Iska and Nebulis princess Aliceliese, as they seek peace amidst their nations’ hostilities.
A Synopsis of the Ongoing Conflict
The series, often abbreviated as KimiSen, centers on a perpetual war between the Heavenly Empire, known for its technological prowess, and the Nebulis Sovereignty, a nation of powerful magic users. Iska, the Empire’s strongest swordsman, and Aliceliese Lou Nebulis IX, the “Ice Calamity Witch” and a princess of the Sovereignty, are fated enemies. Despite their opposing allegiances, they both secretly desire an end to the bloodshed and find themselves drawn to each other, navigating a complex path between duty and forbidden affection. This core dynamic has driven the story through numerous political intrigues, personal sacrifices, and epic battles.
Publication History and Global Reach
Kei Sazane began writing Our Last Crusade or the Rise of a New World with illustrations by Ao Nekonabe, with the first volume published by Fujimi Shobo in May 2017. The series has since released sixteen volumes in Japan, along with three short story collections. Yen Press has licensed both the light novel and its manga adaptation for North American release, ensuring a wide international readership. Volume 15 of the light novel, released in English in November 2025, detailed thwarted invasions and the alliance of several princesses with the Empire, pushing the narrative forward significantly.
Adaptations: Manga and Anime Series
The popularity of the light novel led to multiple adaptations:
Manga Adaptation’s Conclusion
A manga adaptation illustrated by Okama was serialized in Hakusensha’s Young Animal magazine from May 2018 to March 2021. This adaptation concluded after seven tankōbon volumes, with the final volume published in April 2021.
Anime Series Success
The novels also inspired an anime television series. The first 12-episode season, produced by Silver Link, premiered in October 2020 and was streamed by Funimation. A second season, animated by Silver Link and Studio Palette, aired from July 2024 to June 2025, continuing the animated portrayal of Iska and Aliceliese’s adventures.
Looking Ahead: The Road to Resolution
While the specific number of remaining volumes for the light novel series has not been definitively announced, the declaration of the “final battle” arc indicates that the narrative is in its conclusive stages. Discussions among fans and past statements from the author, Kei Sazane, who mentioned the story entering its “second half” around volume 11, suggest the series could potentially extend to around 20 volumes. This final phase is expected to bring to a head the ideological clashes and personal relationships that have defined Our Last Crusade or the Rise of a New World, ultimately revealing the fate of its war-torn world and its star-crossed protagonists.
