Shikidou

SYNOPSIS Long ago, a peerless swordsman feared and revered as Shikijin, the Lion-Demon Blade, carved his name into legend. Centuries later, that name has become a title granted to the strongest swordsman. Now, warriors from all walks of life clash in pursuit of Shikijin, each determined to claim the blade, and the legend, as their own. STORY: 8 The story is simple. Homura wants to become the next Shikijin, and to do so he must defeat his partner Gin, the strongest in the dojo and the current candidate for the title. It makes good use of humor, both as a release from tension and as a means ofexpression. The pacing, for a one-shot, is not overly fast, and although its structure may be relatively predictable, it introduces an element you do not expect at all, one that enriches the story and makes it far more critical and profound. The concept itself is not very original, but the sensitivity with which it is handled feels refreshing. And the ending is simply exquisite it closes beautifully and is deeply satisfying. ART STYLE: 10 Complex lines, explosiveness, and movement. Sophisticated, finely detailed clothing that perfectly complements the characters’ personalities. The fight panels are incredible bursting with life and emotional expressiveness. CHARACTERS: 8.5 Strong character development, as the characters learn lessons and/or grow stronger. The way they are written evokes empathy and, above all, repulsion toward a particular character. Compared to the previous manga, Nokukase, the characters feel more refined and clearly defined. The layer of complexity surrounding the two protagonists is expressed not only through their personalities, but even through their clothing. Homura: Irascible, impulsive, stubborn, competitive, and passionate. He feels a strong rivalry with his partner Gin, whom he wants to defeat in order to obtain the title of Shikijin. Gin: Reserved, socially withdrawn, taciturn, distant, cold, and emotionally armored. He is the current candidate for Shikijin, and is therefore considered the strongest in the entire dojo. Detsu: Arrogant, cruel, cynical, amoral, and opportunistic. A Shikijin candidate from a distant dojo, in search of a swordsman worthy of standing at his level. ENJOYEMENT: 8 It is an engaging and enjoyable work. The story invites us to reflect on what it means to be strong and what drives us to become so. Not only through physical combat, but also on a sensitive and emotional level, albeit indirectly. A true Shikijin is not necessarily the most skilled, but the one with the bravest heart.