Vagabond (VIZBIG Edition), Vol. 9

In Vagabond (VIZBIG Edition), Vol. 9, Takehiko Inoue continues his masterful retelling of the life of the legendary samurai Miyamoto Musashi. This volume delves deep into Musashi's journey of self-discovery, traversing a path marked by intense battles and profound philosophical introspection. The artwork is stunningly detailed, transporting readers to feudal Japan, where honour and skill with the sword defined a warrior’s legacy.

Real-life figure Miyamoto Musashi was the most celebrated samurai of all time. The quintessential warrior-philosopher, Musashi authored A Book of Five Rings, a classic treatise in the canon of world philosophy and military strategy. But the path to enlightenment is an endless journey, and to get there through violent means—by way of the sword—makes mere survival an even greater challenge.

It's been one year since Yoshioka Denshichiro granted Musashi a reprieve for a rematch. Denshichiro may have been a better swordsman back then, but with Musashi before him now, he realises the truly incredible strides his opponent has made in such a short period of time. By sheer force of will, a reluctant Denshichiro moves forward into the fight. And what will the deadly repercussions be for Musashi after this duel that's all but already won?

This volume doesn't just offer breathtaking duels and tension-filled moments but also probes the psyche of its characters, revealing their fears, desires, and the unrelenting quest for improvement. The added bonus content, including colour pages and storyboard samples, enriches the reading experience, providing deeper insight into Inoue's creative process.

Whether you are a long-time fan of the series or new to the world of samurai epic, Vagabond (VIZBIG Edition), Vol. 9 is a must-read that promises a rich blend of action, art, and philosophy.