Chapter 8: Genichi Sojo's Confrontation and Infiltration of Chihiro's Hideout

Following an impressive chapter the week before, Kagurabachi chapter 8 continued to captivate fans. In this latest installment, readers were treated to the ruthless endeavors of Genichi Sojo as he disposed of his henchmen and their loved ones for their shortcomings.

Furthermore, the chapter showcased Sojo's confrontation with Chihiro Rokuhira in search of the elusive seventh enchanted blade, Enten. Building upon the intrigue from the previous chapter, Kagurabachi introduced a compelling new character, Azami, who unexpectedly revealed her connection to Chihiro and Shiba.

Kagurabachi chapter 8 highlights: Sojo arrives as Chihiro faces his worst enemy yet

The protagonist and Shiba were informed by him about the forthcoming black market auction. It was revealed that one of Kunishige's enchanted Katanas was to be put up for sale, with none other than Genichi Sojo, the infamous underground arms dealer, acting as the seller.

Meanwhile, Shiba believed that the Kamunabi's protection could deter Genichi Sojo's henchmen from making an appearance. Nevertheless, he cautioned everyone to maintain a discreet presence for the time being. A scene followed, depicting Char in a deep slumber and indulging in a dream where he was on the verge of losing a game of Shiritori.

Char sleeping in the chapter (Image via Takeru Hokazono/Shueisha)

After Azami's departure, Kagurabachi chapter 8 presents a flashback scene featuring Shiba and the sorcerer who possesses the Daruma-doll. In this scene, the sorcerer discloses all the concealed information about his boss, unveiling the true identity of the sorcerer himself. As per the chapter, the sorcerer's name is Norisaku Madoka.

Furthermore, Kagurabachi chapter 8 reveals the tragic backstory of Madoka, where his own family disowned him due to his actions that tarnished their reputation. This disownment occurred as a consequence of Madoka's affiliation with Sojo's group, ultimately leading to his family being disparagingly referred to as "The Bomb Monster family."

Norisaku Madoka, as shown in the chapter (Image via Takeru Hokazono/Shueisha)

However, Shiba's words instigated a change of heart within him, and he excitedly anticipated embarking on a new journey. Consequently, he contacted his sister and expressed remorse for all his past actions. The sorcerer earnestly implored his sister for forgiveness, assuring her that he had completely forsaken his sorcery practices.

When Madoka informed his sister that he was unable to establish communication with their mother over a phone call, she suggested meeting him the following day. On that fateful day, as he approached his sister's vehicle, he discovered her gravely wounded, having suffered from a brutal stabbing. Before the sorcerer could even respond, Genichi Sojo swiftly drove his blade deep into Madoka's abdomen.

Madoka meets his demise in this chapter (Image via Takeru Hokazono/Shueisha)

In Kagurabachi chapter 8, Sojo explained to Madoka that the "deaths" were the consequence of him failing to complete his work. Filled with anger and despair, the sorcerer resorted to using his daruma-explosion sorcery on himself in an attempt to take down Genichi Sojo.

Unfortunately, his last desperate act resulted in his own destruction along with his unconscious sister, as later revealed by Sojo. Following the demise of Madoka, Genichi Sojo came face to face with the brother of the mental sorcery user from Chapter 6.

In this image captured by Takeru Hokazono for Shueisha, we witness the haunting recollection of Genichi Sojo's traumatic memory.

Chapter 8 of Kagurabachi sheds light on an intriguing revelation: the brother of the user of mental-sorcery possesses a strikingly similar sorcery skill. This discovery indirectly suggests that he might have shared with Sojo the vital information regarding the whereabouts of Chihiro. Rather than expressing gratitude towards the sorcerer, Genichi Sojo, instead, perceived it fitting to bring about his demise.

However, the mental sorcery powers momentarily halted him as they brought back memories of a harrowing childhood experience. In chapter 8 of Kagurabachi, there was a panel featuring a young Sojo gazing upward at a group of men, presumably lifeless.

Chihiro intervenes to intercept Sojo's blade (Image via Takeru Hokazono/Shueisha)

Having slain the sorcerer, Genichi Sojo swiftly arrived at the clandestine hideout of Chihiro and Hinao. Without hesitation, he immediately engaged in combat, lunging at Hinao with his razor-sharp blade. However, the valiant protagonist with dark hair intervened, successfully warding off the attack to protect Hinao's life.

The tumultuous events unfolding outside awakened Char, who was filled with dread upon witnessing Genichi Sojo brandishing his formidable weapon, known as Cloud Gouger. The mafia boss informed Chihiro that he had sought him out specifically, desiring a duel where both combatants wielded enchanted blades.

In the image captured by Takeru Hokazono and published by Shueisha, the battle between Sojo and Chihiro unfolds.

Filled with rage, the protagonist is dismayed to see Sojo gripping Cloud Gouger, the very blade his father had skillfully crafted. Despite knowing that his adversary was far superior in skill, Chihiro unsheathed his own blade, Enten, and readied himself for the confrontation. By the end of Kagurabachi chapter 8, Chihiro sternly informs Sojo that he has no right to wield the esteemed Cloud Gouger.

Kagurabachi chapter 8 analysis and conclusion

In Chapter 8 of Kagurabachi, Takeru Hokazono skillfully delves into the twisted mind of Genichi Sojo. Sojo's merciless and savage nature is prominently highlighted as he not only eliminates his subordinates for their failures, but also inflicts harm upon their innocent family members who are uninvolved in the criminal underworld.

Yet, the most impactful moment in Chapter 8 of Kagurabachi unravels during a panel depicting Sojo's childhood. It becomes evident that this particular aspect of his past haunts him deeply. It is possible that the author will further delve into Sojo's background, including his traumatic experiences, in forthcoming chapters to develop his character more comprehensively.

Takeru Hokazono/Shueisha

Furthermore, the most recent chapter finally unveiled the highly anticipated details about the sorcerer who possessed the Daruma-doll. Despite his demise, it can be said that he fulfilled his role in this narrative. As for the visual style, Takeru Hokazono had the freedom to showcase his artistic brilliance in this particular chapter. The double-spread panels beautifully displayed the author's mastery.

In Kagurabachi chapter 8, the stage is beautifully set for the upcoming clash between Chihiro and Genichi Sojo in next week's issue. Fans will finally get to witness the awe-inspiring abilities of Cloud Gouger. Although Chihiro is expected to suffer defeat, as Azami hinted that he was unprepared, it remains to be seen how he will fare in his battle against Sojo.

Stay tuned for more updates on anime news and manga releases throughout the course of 2023.

Editor's P/S

Chapter 8 of Kagurabachi was an exhilarating ride that left me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. Genichi Sojo's ruthless determination to eliminate his henchmen and their loved ones for their shortcomings sent chills down my spine. His confrontation with Chihiro Rokuhira in search of the elusive seventh enchanted blade, Enten, was nothing short of captivating.

The introduction of Azami, a compelling new character with an unexpected connection to Chihiro and Shiba, added another layer of intrigue to the story. The revelation of the upcoming black market auction, where one of Kunishige's enchanted Katanas will be sold by none other than Genichi Sojo himself, has me eagerly anticipating the next chapter.