No.6 is a 2003 light novel series authored by Atsuko Asano that is complete at forty three chapters across nine books. No.6 Beyond is a side story that serves as a sequel and was released November 22, 2012 with four chapters in one volume. No.6 has been published in Brazil by NewPOP since July 2015.
Starting in 2011, No.6 was adapted into a manga that is complete at thirty three chapters across nine volumes. It was published in English by Kodansha Comics USA from June 11, 2013 to October 21, 2014. It was also published in German by Egmont Manga from October 2, 2014 to February 4, 2016, in Polish by Studio JG from October 22, 2014 to June 29, 2016, in Spanish by Editorial Ivrea since July 2017, and in French by Vega Dupuis since September 15 2023.
The No.6 anime premiered Summer 2011 and was broadcast Fridays at 01.15 (JST) where it ran for eleven episodes to complete the story. Produced by Aniplex, Dentsu, Kodansha and Fuji TV, it was by studio Bones and licensed by Sentai Filmworks.
Synopsis[]
The year is 2013 in the city of No. 6, the city that embodies the highest ideals of humankind. Shion has been raised here as a high-ranking elite since the age of two, but on the night of his twelfth birthday his fate is turned upside-down when he meets a boy who calls himself Nezumi.
"Why did I open the window that night? If I had not, I'd never have needed to know what it is like to fight, starve, or suffer in anguish...."
No.6 Beyond[]
This time, subsequent to the story that wrapped up in Volume 9, is the release of a wondrous "side story"! In response to the many sorrowed voices, the author Asano Atsuko proclaimed, "Then I'll write a supplementary story!" The author herself, recalling her love for the characters, is blazing with ambition at being able to give further life to Shion and Nezumi, who hold such complexity and unfathomable fascination. Cutting out moments from the lives of Nezumi and Shion that she hadn't been able to touch on before, she starts to unravel their secrets...
Characters[]
Shion[]
Growing up as an elite with his mother in Chronos of the No.6 city, Shion was academically gifted and studied ecology. When he was 12 Shion found Nezumi had entered through the window. Rather than react with fear even when pinned against the wall Shion was in awe. Having never seen gray eyes like Nezumi's before Shion answered his mother through the intercom that everything was fine. Both gentle and caring Shion set about helping with Nezumi's gunshot wound. Shion was familiar with administering anesthetic and stitching injuries. Curious, Shion asked Nezumi how he managed to subdue him. Shion was evicted from his home and lost his elite status and the future that came with it for helping Nezumi who was an escaped convict. Four years later Shion worked to monitor cleaning robots and kept in contact with his childhood friend Safu. Spotting someone die and blamed for it, Shion was immediately transported to a correctional institute. Passing his mother in the car Shion was told he would not see her or anyone else again. Surprised to see Nezumi and be rescued by him Shion headed to the West Block. Not mentioning the lump he felt on his neck, Shion would have the parasitic wasp there cut out by Nezumi which saved his life and left his hair white with a coiling scar around his body. Feeling that a remedy was available for a potential outbreak of wasps Shion would desire to return to the city to deliver the news as he lived with Nezumi.
Nezumi[]
Living in the Mao forest when Nezumi was 5 he saw his family with others burn as they came under attack. Taken to the correctional facility Nezumi managed to escape being murdered and entered the first house he was able to, Shion's. Apprehensive of the needle Shion had, Nezumi nevertheless let him treat his wound then thanked him. While he slept there Nezumi was gone by the morning. Four years later Nezumi uses robotic rats of his to learn Shion was in danger and be ready to intercept the vehicle transporting him. Taking Shion to his home in the West Block Nezumi would keep him safe there. Having an interest in literature Nezumi had many books including Shakespeare and would act on stage as the character Eve. Developing an intense hatred for No.6 on account of what the city done to everyone he knew as a child, and because he was aware of what it really was, Nezumi desired to destroy it. This would bring him into conflict with Shion who expressed a desire to save it.
Safu[]
She is Shion's friend who was in the same class as him. Direct in speaking Safu is not shy of chiding people for their actions. It also results in her asking upfront for Shion's sperm before she goes away to study outside the city. Safu deeply cares for Shion on a personal level.
Inukashi[]
Nicknamed "Dog Lender" Inukashi literally rents out companion dogs for those seeking warmth. She is also in the business of buying and selling information and physical amenities such as food and clothing to those interested. Inukashi and Nezumi have a hostile but working business connection. Despite her icy nature, she opens up to Shion and is amicable with him.
Karan[]
Shion's mother who opens up and runs a bakery after they are made to leave their home. Being contacted by Nezumi via a note to let her know that her son is safe, Karan is deeply relieved. Karan has unstated history with the creator's of No.6 and knew Rikaga when they were younger. She sents Rikaga's name as a contact for Shion and Nezumi. Familiar with Youming she enjoys spending time with Lili.
Rikaga[]
Living in the West District Rikaga is sought out by Shion and Nezumi. After suggesting that Nezumi work as a prostitute Rikaga would find that their interactions would not exactly be amicable. However Rikaga is more than willing to help Shion.
Lili[]
Youming's niece who enjoys spending time with Karan in her bakery.
Youming[]
Writing reviews for Karan's baking goods Youming seems to harbor romantic feelings for her. Youming investigates the Correctional Facility and the parasitic wasps within No.6.
Ann[]
One of Safu's friends who tells her not to reveal she was kissing Roy. Living in the city of No.5 she attends lectures.
Betty[]
One of Safu's friends from No.5.
Rou[]
Living underground Rou is aware of the nature of No.6. Rou would detail what he knows to Nezumi and Shion.
Story[]
Images[]
No.6 wiki[]
- An overview article on the entire series, read and contribute further details on the No.6 Wiki!