Berserk's Guts bears a strange, rune-like symbol on his neck: the Brand of Sacrifice. This demonic mark has changed his entire life. As noted, Berserk is far from a happy, breezy romp of a story.

Berserk: The Black Swordsman-- a highly anticipated ... his flesh is also indelibly marked with The Brand, an unholy symbol that draws the forces of darkness to him and dooms him as their sacrifice.