Cruel Fairytales / Жестокие сказки / Zankoku na Douwatachi

Manga "Cruel Fairytales" (also known as "Zankoku na Douwatachi" or "Жестокие сказки") was released in 1993 and consists of four intriguing stories: "Zankoku na Douwatachi", "Sonotoki Tina wa Kako wo Mita", "Butaiura no Majutsushi", and "Blanche". The main plot revolves around Lucia and two other girls who arrive at Julian's house, with each of them being a potential candidate for his long-lost sister. However, as soon as the girls enter the house, strange occurrences start happening. One by one, the girls begin to disappear, and the dolls in the house unexpectedly come to life. The first story, "Zankoku na Douwatachi", sets the stage for the rest of the manga. It introduces the readers to the mysterious world of the house and its inhabitants. As Lucia and the other girls explore the house, they find themselves caught up in a dark and twisted fairy tale, where nothing is as it seems. In "Sonotoki Tina wa Kako wo Mita", the focus shifts to Tina, one of the girls who disappeared earlier. The story delves into Tina's past and her connection to the house. As the secrets unravel, readers are taken on a journey of discovery and revelation. The third story, "Butaiura no Majutsushi", centers around a magician named Kaito and his encounters with the supernatural within the house. As the line between reality and illusion blurs, Kaito becomes entangled in a web of magic and deception. The final story, "Blanche", brings all the previous threads together, providing answers to the mysteries that have unfolded throughout the manga. The true nature of the house and its purpose are revealed, and the characters must confront their deepest fears and desires. "Cruel Fairytales" is a gripping and suspenseful manga that combines elements of horror, mystery, and fantasy. The intricate storyline keeps readers on the edge of their seats, never knowing what twist or turn awaits them next. The dark and atmospheric artwork further enhances the eerie atmosphere of the manga, making it a truly immersive and captivating read. Overall, "Cruel Fairytales" is a must-read for fans of psychological manga and those who enjoy complex and intricate storytelling. Its unique blend of dark fairy tales and chilling suspense will leave readers both intrigued and haunted long after turning the last page.