Orochi (manga)

Orochi is a horror manga series written and illustrated by Kazuo Umezu. Published between 1969 and 1970 in Weekly Shonen Sunday magazine, it tells interconnected stories centered around the mysterious character Orochi, a beautiful young woman with extraordinary psychic abilities.

The series explores themes of fate, jealousy, revenge, and the dark side of human nature. Each story typically features different characters and scenarios, but Orochi acts as a silent observer or sometimes a direct participant, using her powers to influence events or protect those she deems worthy.

While seemingly immortal and ageless, Orochi is not a traditional protagonist. Her motives are often ambiguous, and her presence can either prevent or trigger tragic outcomes. Her power allows her to manipulate life and death, and she is capable of seeing into the past and future. This gives her a unique perspective on the human condition and often leads to her acting as a moral compass, albeit one with questionable methods.

The manga is known for Umezu's distinctive art style, characterized by detailed depictions of horror and psychological distress. The stories often feature gruesome imagery and explore disturbing themes, making it a hallmark of the horror manga genre. Orochi's unsettling beauty and detached demeanor further contribute to the series' chilling atmosphere. The series is considered a classic of Japanese horror manga and has influenced many subsequent works in the genre.