i really loved this manga so much. i'm so sad that it stopped right before musashi arrived at kokura, but i understand that the author is having a hiatus, it's not easy keeping up with the ambitious and intricate art.

musashi's character is truly lovable. from the first volumes – where he's beastly, wild and merciless. to later on, where he begins to find peace and understanding. i think the first turning point was definitely with inshun, but the most important one was the battle against the 70 yoshioka men. not only was it heavily influencing musashi's state of mind, but due to ueda's cut at his calf, he almost had to give up the sword.

i think this turning point really awoken something within musashi, by this time kojirou was on his mind too. and that's another beautiful aspect to this manga, kojirou's character. all that he has is the sword, nothing else. and because of this fact, he's extremely skilled. he's like flowing water, and musashi strives to become like that too.

this is another thing i really loved, musashi's and kojirou's connection with nature. kojirou grew up by the beach, close to the water. but musashi grew up in the mountains, wild and untamed. they're like two halves of one.

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some other comments about this manga:

seijuro was so misunderstood by the yoshioka, he deserved way better and tbh he needed a more screentime imo.

i loved musashi's relationships with the old men, their interactions were so wholesome and cute.

matahachi is a crybaby bitch, jk i love him.

and finally, musashi sweetie please shave i miss your bare face.