I’m writing this because I’ve always been struck by how Enten stands at the center of Chihiro Rokuhira’s journey—both as a weapon of vengeance and as a precious keepsake from his late father.
SPOILER ALERT: This article contains major plot points from Kagurabachi.
Overview: A Sword Born After the War
Enten (淵天) is introduced as Chihiro Rokuhira’s prized blade in the early chapters of Kagurabachi—around Volume 1 (Chapter 2). Unlike the original six “legendary swords” Kunishige Rokuhira forged during the Seitei War, Enten is the seventh and final sword crafted in peacetime. When the Hishaku attacked three years prior, it remained hidden beneath a protective barrier, thus eluding the thieves.
- Name & Meaning: “En” (淵) often translates to “abyss” or “depth,” while “Ten” (天) can mean “sky” or “heaven.” Together, Enten evokes the deep bond between mortal strife and lofty aspirations—a fitting symbol for Chihiro’s story.
- Forged By: Kunishige Rokuhira, Chihiro’s father and the genius swordsmith responsible for the original six Enchanted Blades (Yoto). Many suspect Enten was his “insurance”—a secret, final blade to stop any evil from abusing the Yoto.
Enten’s Role in Kagurabachi
Heirloom & Motivation
For Chihiro, Enten is more than a tool. It’s a bittersweet link to his late father, murdered by the Hishaku. In Volume 1 (Chapter 3), Chihiro vows to reclaim all stolen Yoto and avenge Kunishige’s death, placing Enten at the heart of his mission.
Defining Armed Encounters
Throughout Volume 2 (Chapters 7–10), Chihiro relies on Enten to combat formidable sorcerers. Its powers enable him to transform raw “Genryoku” (magical energy) into versatile techniques, compensating for his relative inexperience. Enten’s prominence in early battles sets the stage for the manga’s ongoing conflict.
Powers & Techniques
Though rumored to be less “flashy” than other Yoto, Enten reveals considerable range and depth:
- Black Slash “Kuro (涅)”
Summons a black goldfish-like energy that fires slicing waves. Useful for wide-range attacks or crowd control. (See Volume 2 (Chapter 9) for Chihiro’s dramatic ambush where he severs an enemy’s arms under the cover of darkness.) - Crimson Absorption “Aka (猩)”
Manifests a red goldfish form capable of absorbing enemy sorcery—or any form of incoming magical attack. Later, Chihiro can channel the stolen power back at opponents.
In Volume 3 (Chapter 15), we glimpse “Aka” neutralizing a deadly flame technique from an opponent, turning their own power against them. - Nishiki (錦) Physical Boost
Imbues Chihiro’s body with superhuman strength and speed, though at great personal cost. Pain ripples through his muscles due to the intense Genryoku strain. Examples occur particularly in Volume 3 (Chapter 17), where an already injured Chihiro nearly collapses from overuse. - Variants & Evolution
Chihiro expands these abilities with new “derived forms.” Early in “Volume 2 (Chapter 10),” he debuts “Kuro-Chigiri,” producing miniature black goldfish waves for quick successions. Each variation emerges from heated battles, hinting that Enten grows alongside its wielder’s resolve.
Why Enten Stands Out
- Simplicity & Versatility
Unlike other Yoto known for extravagant elemental storms or illusions, Enten’s straightforward skill set adapts well to different conflicts—whether repelling a mob or countering advanced sorcery. - Emotional Weight
Beyond technique, Enten symbolizes Chihiro’s destiny and father’s legacy. Growth in controlling its “True Power” (本領, Honryo) is tied directly to his emotional maturity. Story arcs (like Volume 3 (Chapter 16)) emphasize that full mastery derives from both skill and spirituality. - Hints of a Secret Purpose
Sly remarks from supporting characters suggest Kunishige shaped Enten specifically to handle worst-case scenarios—maybe even neutralizing the dreaded “Shin-uchi” blade. To date, however, Kagurabachi teases more questions than answers, heightening intrigue toward Enten’s ultimate form.
FINAL THOUGHT
I’ve found Enten’s modest style uniquely appealing. No matter how many flashy swords occupy Kagurabachi, I keep coming back to the sense of legacy this blade embodies. Personally, I can’t wait to see how Chihiro’s synergy with Enten evolves in the upcoming anime adaptation—especially if it unlocks new transformations.
Enten (淵天) may initially appear unassuming, but it carries tremendous significance—as an heirloom, as a well-rounded weapon, and as a testament to Chihiro’s unwavering spirit. Whether slicing wide arcs or absorbing enemy spells, it proves essential to Kagurabachi’s narrative of revenge and redemption.
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