Blue Exorcist Season 4 Episode 2 Recap: Yukio’s Struggle with Suicide and His Search for Demon Powers

Blue Exorcist just released season 4, episode 2 on October 13, at 12:30 am JST, across several Japanese channels, such as Tokyo MX and BS11. This episode delves into the psychological battles faced by the characters, laying the groundwork for upcoming thrilling sequences. Notably, Yukio’s character undergoes a significant transformation, taking a darker and more intense direction.

In this latest episode of Blue Exorcist, Yukio grapples with his lineage and his own powers. His internal struggles reach a critical point where he contemplates extreme actions, including suicide, in a desperate bid to fully understand and harness his abilities.

Blue Exorcist season 4, episode 2: Yukio attempts to awaken his demon sight

Yukio recalls his encounter with Lucifer (Image via Studio VOLN) — Yukio remembers his encounter with Lucifer (Image via Studio VOLN)

Frustration has plagued Yukio due to his demonic heritage, and he strives to surpass Rin. Viewers witness his fervent attempts to unlock his demon powers in this episode of Blue Exorcist, set in an abandoned structure shut off by the True Cross Knights Order.

After passing the Order’s medical assessments, Yukio concludes that his dormant abilities aren’t merely due to his lineage or possession. Lacking understanding of how to activate these powers, he resolves to recreate the conditions of their prior awakening.

Naiad's Carousel summoned by Yukio (Image via Studio VOLN) — Naiad’s Carousel conjured by Yukio (Image via Studio VOLN)

His prior confrontation with Lucifer, who had invited him to join the Illuminati, serves as a critical memory. Yukio realizes that both encounters share a common theme: an overwhelming fear of death.

This leads Yukio to take risks, thinking that it might trigger his powers. He ends up summoning Naiad’s Carousel, encasing himself within the water and suffocating. However, his plan is thwarted due to a failsafe he had instilled. It’s important to note that an enigmatic figure was also present, seemingly watching Yukio’s ordeal.

Yukio falling off a building (Image via Studio VOLN) — Yukio plunging off the building (Image via Studio VOLN)

Facing a need for a sacrifice, Yukio leaps from the building. As he falls, childhood memories flood his mind, echoing his will to survive. However, the outcome is unexpected; he loses consciousness and awakens amidst blue flames, deepening his bewilderment.

Rin and Shiemi’s investigation

Rin and Shiemi inside the haunted clinic (Image via Studio VOLN) — Rin and Shiemi exploring the haunted clinic (Image via Studio VOLN)

Rin and Shiemi team up in this episode of Blue Exorcist to investigate a haunted osteopathic clinic. The building is plagued by Coal Tars, and they must eliminate them without damaging the property, as per the guidance of a senior exorcist.

Equipped with Holy Water Sprayers, they combat the Coal Tars but sadly fall victim to a collapsing floor, trapping them in the basement. Rin suffers an impalement from debris, which cannot be removed for fear of compromising the structure’s integrity.

Rin and Shiemi in the basement (Image via Studio VOLN) — Rin and Shiemi stuck in the basement (Image via Studio VOLN)

As they lie amid the rubble, hoping for rescue, a touching moment emerges where Rin shares his romantic feelings for Shiemi, to her genuine surprise and embarrassment.

However, with the setting sun, a swarm of Coal Tars emerges around them. Rin realizes that the only option left is to detonate the building, much to the chagrin of the supervising exorcist.

Shura’s mysterious disappearance

Rin and Yukio in Mephisto's office (Image via Studio VOLN) — Rin and Yukio at Mephisto’s office (Image via Studio VOLN)

The opening scene of Blue Exorcist season 4, episode 2 portrays a dialogue between Shura and Lightning before Shura’s sudden disappearance. Their discussion uncovers a plot by the Illuminati to unleash demon eaters that utilize demons with immortality and regenerative prowess. Lightning highlights Shura’s familiarity with Naga, known for their immortality.

Shura reassures him that her familiar is not immortal and that she is unaware of any immortal Naga. The episode concludes with Mephisto summoning Rin and Yukio, informing them of Shura’s absence and tasking them with her investigation.

Review of Blue Exorcist season 4, episode 2

This episode of Blue Exorcist showcased a notable transition from its usual action-packed moments to deep character reflection. It emphasizes the characters’ internal conflicts rather than grand battles. Rin and his companions confront their personal demons and complex emotions.

The storytelling in Blue Exorcist season 4, episode 2 adopts a subtle approach, exploring their growth and vulnerabilities. This reinforces the narrative’s emotional depth, allowing viewers to connect more profoundly with the characters. As always, the animation is exceptional, capturing powerful scenes and brilliant colors that animate every moment vividly.

Studio VOLN has successfully maintained the integrity of the series in this episode. Blue Exorcist season 4, episode 2 not only honors the source material but also heightens the visual and emotional layers. They have balanced action with the slower, reflective segments effectively, demonstrating adaptability and respect for the narrative.

Conclusion

This episode of Blue Exorcist lays a compelling foundation for thrilling interactions and the unveiling of mysteries. It intensifies tension through the exploration of the characters’ inner struggles, building anticipation for forthcoming confrontations.

Viewers can look forward to dynamic action sequences and intricately woven secrets as the storyline progresses. The groundwork established in this episode promises an exhilarating journey ahead, filled with fierce battles and crucial revelations.

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