Akashic Records of Bastard Magic Instructor

Bastard!! (implied title not explicitly stated)

Company type	Light novel series and media franchise
Industry	Publishing, entertainment
Founded	July 2014
Founder	Tarō Hitsuji (author), Kurone Mishima (illustrator)
Headquarters	Japan
Products	Light novels, manga, anime television series
Parent	Fujimi Shobo (publisher)

is a Japanese light novel series authored by Tarō Hitsuji, with artwork by Kurone Mishima. Released under the Fujimi Shobo label through the Fujimi Fantasia Bunko imprint, the series comprises twenty-four volumes published between July 2014 and November 2023. Its adaptation into a manga, illustrated by Aosa Tsunemi, was serialized in Kadokawa Shoten's Monthly Shōnen Ace from March 2015 until June 2021, culminating in sixteen collected volumes. An anime television series produced by Liden Films aired from April to June 2017.

Synopsis

Sistine Fibel and her close companion Rumia Tingel are students at a renowned magical academy. Sistine’s ambition is to uncover the mysteries of the Sky Castle, fulfilling her grandfather’s final request. Following the retirement of her favorite teacher, Glenn Radars—dubbed the "Bastard Magic Instructor" (BMI)—takes over the position. Glenn initially presents himself as unmotivated and inept, lacking official certification and guild approval; however, he hides a formidable past as a former assassin within the Imperial Court Mage Corps. When an attack on the academy by the previous instructor occurs, Glenn unveils his true capabilities, astonishing Sistine. As his pupils support him through his struggles with depression, Glenn rediscovers a sense of purpose in education. The narrative delves into themes such as mental health challenges, camaraderie, family ties, adoption, ambition, and authority.

Characters

Glenn is characterized by his lethargic demeanor yet exceptional magical prowess. Once known as "The Fool" during his tenure as a military assassin, he developed "The Fool's World," a magic that suppresses spell activation within its radius while excelling in close combat techniques. Although not proficient in offensive magic spells, his profound knowledge of magical theory enables him to be an effective educator who challenges conventional teaching approaches. He appears to harbor romantic feelings toward Sistine.

Sistine holds a deep fascination for magic and is determined to uncover the secret behind the Flying Castle. Initially disapproving of Glenn’s lax attitude, she gradually comes to appreciate his instructional abilities. Her resemblance to Sara Silvers—Glenn’s deceased partner—suggests underlying connections. She may have affectionate feelings for Glenn but remains reserved about them.

Rumia is Sistine’s adopted sister and closest friend, having survived an assault by malevolent mages. Secretly Princess Ermiana, she possesses a potent spiritual presence and the rare Amplifier ability that enhances her powers. She recalls Glenn as "The Fool" who once saved her life and holds him in high regard.

Celica serves as an immortal mage and professor who took Glenn under her wing as an apprentice. Despite Glenn’s unimpressive background, she recommends him as a substitute instructor with hopes it will bring fulfillment to his life. Celica is a retired legendary member of the Court Mage.

Known as "The Star," this sharp-eyed military mage previously worked alongside Glenn and occasionally assists in military operations involving him.

Referred to as "The Chariot," Re=L is an artificially created human skilled in alchemy and forging massive swords. Constructed through "Project: Revive Life," she was integrated into the military after Glenn and Albert terminated the project. Upon discovering her origins, she commits to living for Glenn’s sake.

Sara Silvers was a former member of the Imperial Court Mage Corps and Glenn’s close partner known as "The Empress." Her passing had a profound impact on Glenn. Sara bore a striking resemblance to Sistine and was affectionately nicknamed "White Dog" by him.

A student enrolled in Class 4 at Alzano Imperial Magic Academy.

A heretic mage titled "The Justice," responsible for Sara’s demise during an uprising.

Glenn’s superior officer and manager within the Imperial Mage Corps. Previously withheld reinforcements leading to Sara’s death but later collaborates with Glenn in an instructional capacity and secretly harbors affection for him.

The newly appointed director of the academy where Glenn and others teach. She cautions against conducting battles within library premises. Formerly served as Queen of the Alzano Empire.

Manga

The manga adaptation has been officially licensed for English distribution by Seven Seas Entertainment.

Anime

In March 2016, an anime adaptation was revealed and subsequently confirmed as a television series created by Liden Films. The series was directed by Hiraku Kaneko, with scripts penned by Touko Machida, character designs crafted by Satoshi Kimura, and the soundtrack composed by Hiroaki Tsutsumi. It broadcast from April 4 through June 20, 2017, comprising a total of 12 episodes. The opening theme, titled "Blow Out," was sung by Konomi Suzuki, while the ending theme, "Precious You," featured performances from Akane Fujita, Yume Miyamoto, and Ari Ozawa. The series was available with subtitles via Crunchyroll's streaming service, and Funimation managed the home video distribution through their collaborative agreement.

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See also

• Last Round Arthurs, another light novel work authored by Taro Hitsuji

External links

• at Fujimi Shobo
• at Monthly Shōnen Ace