Hajime Bako’s dark fantasy manga, “Killer Vamp” (Japanese: 血と灰の女王, Chi to Hai no Joō, “Queen of Blood and Ash”), has reached its conclusion with Chapter 223. The series, which began serialization on Shogakukan’s MangaONE app and Ura Sunday website on December 30, 2016, has garnered a dedicated following for its action, horror, and supernatural themes.
A World Drenched in Blood and Ash
“Killer Vamp” plunges readers into a post-apocalyptic Japan irrevocably altered by the eruption of Mount Fuji. The volcanic ash has spawned “battle vampires,” individuals imbued with immense power who engage in brutal conflicts, bathing themselves in the blood of their fallen adversaries. The story follows characters navigating this dangerous new reality, struggling for survival and caught in the crossfire of vampire battles. The series is known for its gore, horror, and dark themes.
A Close Call Early On
The series faced an early threat of cancellation in 2017. Bako revealed that his editor informed him that if the first volume did not sell at least 1,000 more copies by a month before the third volume’s release, the series would be cancelled with the fourth volume. Bako appealed to fans, and the manga’s first volume sold approximately 1,000 copies a week later, saving it from being cut short.
Journey to the Final Chapter
The official X (formerly Twitter) account of Shogakukan’s Manga ONE app announced on March 20, 2024, that “Killer Vamp” would enter its final arc on March 26. The manga had previously gone on hiatus in January to prepare for this final stretch and resumed serialization on February 20. The series officially wrapped up with Chapter 223.
Publication and Availability
Shogakukan published the first compiled book volume in May 2017, with 23 tankōbon volumes in circulation as of December 2024. Comikey licenses the manga in English, making it accessible to a broader international audience digitally.
Themes and Reception
“Killer Vamp” blends action, dark fantasy, and horror elements. The manga explores themes of survival, power, and morality in a world consumed by violence. While a user rating on MangaUpdates gives the series an average of 6.5/10, the series ranked #7 in the Web Manga category of the fourth “Next Manga Awards” (Tsugi ni Kuru Manga Taishō) in 2018.
Digital Distribution
Comikey provides digital access to “Killer Vamp,” with individual chapters available for purchase using “keys,” their virtual currency. This platform allows readers to follow the story and support the creator.
Hajime Bako: The Creator Behind the Bloodshed
Hajime Bako is the writer and illustrator of “Killer Vamp”. Bako launched the manga on Shogakukan’s web manga site Ura Sunday and in the Manga ONE app in December 2016.
Story Synopsis
Comikey offers the following synopsis of the manga: “Don’t worry… You’re not dying just yet.” Since the eruption of Mount Fuji, the nights in Japan and this city have changed completely. Those covered in volcanic ash from Mount Fuji have become battle vampires, wielding tremendous power as they’ve started to kill each other and wash themselves in the blood of their fallen foes.”
Alternative Titles
“Killer Vamp” is also known by the following titles:
- Chi to Hai no Joou (Original Japanese Title)
- Killing Vamp
- The Queen of Blood & Ashes
- 血と灰の女王 (Japanese)
- 血与灰的女王 (Chinese)
- 피와 재의 여왕 (Korean)
A Look at Vampire Manga
“Killer Vamp” contributes to the popular and diverse genre of vampire manga. These stories often blend horror, action, and supernatural elements, exploring themes of power, immortality, and the struggle between good and evil. Other notable vampire manga include “MoMo -the blood taker-“, which focuses on detective Mikogami Keigo as he solves vampire related murders.
Genre Conventions
Vampire manga frequently feature:
- Supernatural powers: Enhanced strength, speed, and regeneration are common abilities.
- Dark and gothic settings: These stories often take place in shadowy environments, emphasizing the horror aspects.
- Moral ambiguities: Vampires are often portrayed as complex characters, neither entirely good nor evil.
- Action-packed battles: Conflicts between vampires or between vampires and humans are a staple.
The Legacy of “Killer Vamp”
As “Killer Vamp” concludes, it leaves behind a legacy of dark fantasy and intense action. Bako’s creation has resonated with readers through its unique premise, compelling characters, and exploration of a world transformed by a cataclysmic event. While the story has ended, its impact on the manga landscape and its fans will endure.
