Uruha's mark design in Kagurabachi is a beautiful touch (and Hokazono-sensei deserves more credit for it)

Kagurabachi is proving to be a series for the ages and its author deserves huge appreciation. Mangaka Takeru Hokazono has created something special and its immensely growing popularity despite being just 88 chapters in testifies to that. The manga fulfills everything a modern hit demands - intense action, compelling storyline, awesome characters, mind-bending sorcery and a quick pick-up.

Another aspect that makes Kagurabachi so engaging is the level of and attention to detail. Each of its characters are unqiuely designed and exhibit traits/features that make them distinct and memorable. In this case, the subject in question would be Yoji Uruha, a former Enchanted Blade Wielder. Hokazono showcased his eye for detail when he made Uruha's sorcery mark and it altering as he used magic.

Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for the Kagurabachi manga.

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Kagurabachi: Uruha's sorcery marks attest to Hokazono's eye for detail

Attention to detail is something that can contribute significantly demarcating a good series from a great series. It showcases how much thought and care the author pours into creating and presenting his characters/situations. Here, Hokazono's series seems to have hit the bullseye. A case of this is seen with Yoji Uruha and the marks that appear on the sides of his eyes when he uses sorcery.

Prior to his contract with Kameyuri, Uruha was capable of sorcery called Koen (Crisom Recital). It allowed him strengthen one of his abilities at a time to gain an advantage in combat, such a boost in destructive power or speed. Upon activation, the marks on the sides of eyes deepened and extended. But this is also where things interestingly detailed.

Depending on the stat he chooses to enhance, the designs change a little. When boosting strength or destructive power, the marks appear sleeker and smaller. However, when he goes for speed, the marks enlarge and extend up to his temples even and the sides of his face. This small but very intriguing detail adds depth to the character and is one of the way that actually showcases sorcery.

Uruha and Chihiro (Image via Viz Media)

Important to note, Uruha had access to this sorcery in only when he wasn't tied to Kameyuri through the Lifelong Contract. This is because a Lifelong Contract with an Enchanted Blade renders one's own sorcery unusable. But he received access to it once again when he was killed and revived by Seiichi Samura during the battle at Senkutsuji Temple.

An addition like this proves that Kagurabachi's brilliance lies beyond intense action sequences and/or an engaging plot. Hokazono has showcased a mastery over the little things - subtle, attentive details that elevate the series into an exceptional one. As mentioned, Uruha's sorcery marks are a testament to the mangaka's craftsmanship, making them more than cosmetic features.

The marks evolving as per the stat enhanced may be a small touch, but it contributes greatly to deepening the series' sorcery element. As such, there is a strong case for visual storytelling, and furnishes a fair bit to explore. Attention to detail like is proof that Hokazono doesn't cut corners. Rather, true to his reputation, Kagurabachi's world is being intricately crafted and made consistent.

Not to mention, characters' abilities being reflected in visual cues than just dialogue mirrors the creator’s true investment. Thus, even re-reads are fruitful and rouse lasting appreciation for the story.

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Final Thought

Uruha vs Yura (Image via Viz Media)

Kagurabachi’s rising acclaim is the fruit of creator Takeru Hokazono’s diligent artistry and in-depth storytelling. Delivering on all fronts such as pacing, character design and development, action, plot, what truly makes the series outstanding is the subtlety of details. With Yoji Uruha’s sorcery marks as a shining example, the intricacy here reflects power changes as well as deeper worldbuilding.

Nuanced visual cues like this do more than just provide aesthetic appeal, they build on and refine the series' power system, make it logically sound and adds a new level of immersion. Such minute design choices depict a mangaka who tells a story whilst carefully and consistently building a universe. All in all, Hokazono’s work exemplifies how thoughtful execution makes great series unforgettable.

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Also read:

• Kagurabachi chapter 88 highlights
• Yura could be a by-product of Sword Saint's Magatsumi in Kagurabachi
• Kagurabachi chapter 89 release details

Edited by Casey Mendez