poster/cover art for a manga idea of mine... I experimented with emulating (well ok... maybe "ripping off" is somewhat more apt ) Hiroaki Samura's style of composition and sketchy line-art.

hopefully this turns out to be something more than just a one-shot idea...

It's a fictional fantasy tale inspired by the period of Japan's history when newly-introduced goldfish from China became a national obsession. In my story, rival noble families compete for the emperor's favors by participating in a yearly "Breeder's Cup" to produce the most exquisite fish which will be presented at the emperor's birthday. One noble who was a sure winner was cheated by his opponent with the help of a crafty sorcerer, however, and he ended up disgraced and ordered to commit suicide before the royal court, as well as his entire clan and then stripped of his title and property. One son escapes with the help of a faithful old samurai serving the family and he vows to avenge his family's honor by winning the competition himself under an assumed name. Without possessions to speak of however, except for a single goldfish left from his family's once-extensive line of prized fish, he will have to rely on luck and the graces of the various kami and spirits of Japanese folklore to aid him as he begins the painstaking process of learning the art and science of goldfish breeding while evading attacks from different factions, ranging from assassins including shinobi and water imps all the way to warding off ghostly Shinigami and murderous bandits. And in the end, be hailed as a prince of goldfish.