Laughing Under the Clouds, Volume 4

Laughing Under the Clouds, Volume 4 by Karakarakemuri is a graphic novel published by TOKYOPOP, Incorporated on October 5, 2021. This edition features 208 pages and is presented in English. Set in the early Meiji era, the story unfolds during a time of civil unrest and the decline of the samurai way of life, highlighting the challenges faced by Japan as crime rates soar and prisons become overcrowded.

Readers will find a narrative that centers on the construction of Gokumonjo, an inescapable prison situated in the center of Lake Biwa, which relies on the three sons of the Kumo family to transport criminals. The plot raises questions about the true nature of Gokumonjo, suggesting that it may serve purposes beyond merely housing petty criminals. This volume explores themes of fantasy, action, and historical fiction, immersing readers in a world where the occult and supernatural elements intertwine with the realities of a changing society.