Vagabond is the 37th volume of the Vagabond manga series. The story follows a young man named Musashi Miyamoto, whose journey of self-perfection is told through a re-imagining and re-telling of the life of legendary swordsman Miyamoto Musashi. In this volume, as Musashi continues his journey and search for enlightenment, he faces numerous challenges that test his skills and endurance.
In Chapter 37, Musashi is taken in by a group of bandits who plan on using him as a hostage in order to get what they want from an old warlord. Musashi must find a way to break out and escape and eventually puts his swordsmanship to use in trying to accomplish this task. He eventually gains the upper hand by using his honed swordsmanship to outmaneuver the bandits and defeats them.
In Chapter 38, Musashi comes upon two men, Saizan and Tadaaki, training in a small forest. He is able to overcome them both by adopting a unique fighting technique and soon becomes respected by the two men as a great swordsman. His newfound fame and prowess prove invaluable in teaching at the Gion dojo, where he works to refine his techniques and overcome new opponents.
In Chapter 39, Musashi is requested to be a part of a tournament of swordsmen organized by a lord in the region. He feels tremendous pressure to perform well as it will be a great honor to represent the dojo he works for in such an event. During the tournament, Musashi shows off his great skill and endurance and eventually emerges as the victor.
In Chapter 40, Musashi is on his way to Kyoto for the great tournament at the Hon’no Temple when he encounters a group of bandits who are determined to stop his journey. He must overcome their skills and weapons and eventually succeeds by using his swordsmanship and quick thinking.
In Chapter 41, Musashi successfully enters the Hon’no Temple and prepares to face his opponents in the tournament. Musashi goes up against several other skilled swordsmen, and after an intense battle, he emerges as the victor.
In Chapter 42, Musashi returns home from his journey, having been recognized as a great swordsman. He continues to devote himself to the study and mastery of the sword, and his determination is portrayed in this volume.
By reading Vagabond Volume 37, readers gain insight into the struggles, victories, and defeats of one of Japan’s most renowned martial artists. Musashi’s triumphs and defeats show readers how determination and hard work can help you reach your goals in spite of the many obstacles. By witnessing his growth as a swordsman, readers may even find their own paths of self-improvement.