Originally written as a novella in the late 1980's, The Heroic Legend of Arslan has been adapted to manga and anime numerous times, with the most prominent being the 2013 release of a manga series by famed illustrator, Hiromu Arakawa (the creator of Full metal Alchemist). It tells the story of the young crown prince of Pars, Arslan, as he is forced out of his kingdom when his father, the king, is betrayed and defeated and his domain conquered. Arslan and his few companions must re-assemble an army and fight against overwhelming odds to regain his throne and liberate his kingdom. Through his exploits, he reaches emotional maturity, while the series also tackles underlying issues of slavery, religious fanaticism, betrayal, and humanity.