by MangaMoon

Vagabond

Remember… when Musashi discovers that believing in his strength cannot protect him from the fear of death? He arrives at Hozoin seeking a reputation. His logic is straightforward: defeat a powerful opponent and prove himself strong. Inshun, a young monk carrying a spear, seems like another opportunity. Once they fight, the difference becomes painfully clear. Musashi attacks with his wooden sword. Inshun controls the distance, answering his advances with precise spear strikes. Musashi’s brute strength cannot reach him. Each attempt drains more energy, while the monk remains composed. Musashi refuses to concede. But when Inshun prepares to kill him, his body responds before his pride can decide. He is afraid. His attention narrows. His thoughts unravel. The desire to win gives way to the need to survive. He turns and runs, eventually losing consciousness. Alongside his injuries, he carries away an image of himself he never wanted to see: someone capable of fleeing. Training with In’ei will force him to confront that memory. Another powerful swing cannot simply erase it. His growth begins with this defeat—with learning how to face a fight after discovering how desperately he wants to live.

Material: wooden