Lance N' Masques

Lance N' Masques is an anime series that blends elements of fantasy, action, and a touch of romance, wrapped in the enigmatic allure of knighthood and modern-day chivalry. This series was produced by Studio Gokumi, a notable animation studio responsible for other works such as "The Severing Crime Edge" and "Yuki Yuna is a Hero." The show aired in the fall season of 2015 and is an adaptation of a light novel series written by Hideaki Koyasu with illustrations by Shino.

The story of Lance N' Masques centers around the life of Yotaro Hanafusa, a young man who is a part of the last remaining order of knights in the 21st century, known as the Knights of the World. This order upholds the ideals of chivalry and justice, secretly protecting people without the expectation of reward or recognition. However, the overarching theme of the series is Yotaro's struggle with his knightly identity in a contemporary world that has long forgotten such valorous figures.

Yotaro is born into this knighthood legacy and is trained from childhood to become a noble protector, a role he fulfills under the alter ego of "Knight Lancer." His life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters a young girl named Makio Kidoin, who is the sole heir to a prestigious corporate empire. Unbeknownst to the dangers surrounding her, Makio lives a rather lonely existence, sequestered in her mansion due to the position she holds.

Upon meeting Makio, Yotaro instinctively springs into action to save her from potential threats, thus revealing his secret identity to her. From that point on, his life intertwines with Makio's in more ways than one as he takes on the self-imposed duty of her personal protector, all while maintaining his anonymity to the public. As Yotaro fulfills his knightly duties, he grapples with the reality that the era of knights has passed, and his existence is considered anachronistic, often leading to comedic and heartfelt moments.

Supporting characters enrich the narrative, such as Yoriko Sudou, Yotaro’s caretaker who is well aware of his double life and assists him in his knightly endeavors. There is also Alice Cleveland, a skilled but somewhat eccentric knight from the same order, who shares a complex relationship with Yotaro and has her own unique approach to the concept of knighthood.

The animation style of Lance N' Masques is generally characterized by vibrant colors and visually appealing designs that highlight the fantastical elements of the series. The character designs are distinctive, offering a mix of traditional armorer aesthetics along with modern attire befitting the storyline’s contemporary setting. This visual blend underscores the series’ commitment to marrying the old-fashioned virtues of chivalry with the complexities of the modern world.

In terms of audio, the series features a soundtrack that underscores the action and emotional highs and lows of the narrative. Accompanying background music ranges from energetic to subtle, effectively conveying the tone of each scene. The opening and ending sequences feature catchy theme songs that reflect the spirit of the show.

Lance N' Masques explores several themes, including the search for one's true identity in the face of societal expectations, the role of honor and duty in contemporary life, and the meaning of strength and protection. Yotaro’s struggle is not just external; he must reconcile his internal conflict between the duty ingrained in him and his own personal desires. This duality is a consistent source of drama and character development throughout the series.

The series also dabbles in romance, presenting a burgeoning affection between Yotaro and those he interacts with, especially Makio. These romantic undertones introduce additional depth to Yotaro’s character, as they complicate his life and his mission, offering a nuanced view of human relationships and the challenge of balancing personal inclinations with one's sworn duties.

However, beyond the heroics and burgeoning romances, Lance N' Masques does not shy away from injecting humor into its episodes. The often awkward and bizarre situations Yotaro finds himself in due to his dual identity result in a comedic effect that serves as a gentle reminder that despite its fantastical elements, the show is grounded in the relatable experiences of its protagonist.

In conclusion, Lance N' Masques is an anime that tells the tale of a modern knight caught between tradition and progression, trying to carve out his own place in a world that no longer recognizes his kind. It's a story of honor, duty, and affection, presented with a light-hearted touch that keeps its themes digestible and its narrative engaging for a wide range of audiences.