Demon Slayer Hashira Training Arc episode 1: Hashira Training Arc begins as Demon Slayer Marks are explained

The first episode of the Hashira Training Arc, titled “To Defeat Muzan Kibutsuji,”aired on Sunday, May 12, 2024 at 11:15 pm JST as part of the fifth season of Demon Slayer. This episode follows the events of the Swordsmith Village Arc and serves as the start of the Hashira Training Arc.

The most recent installment prepares for the ultimate showdown against Muzan Kibutsuji and the upper Kizuki demons, as it introduces the Infinity Castle in its opening scenes. Additionally, the episode delves into the training of Demon Slayer Corp members and the explanation of Demon Slayer Marks in anticipation of the final battle.

Demon Slayer Hashira Training Arc – Episode 1: The Hashira Meeting and Training Begins

Demon Slayer: Hashira Training Arc Episode 1 Opening Events: Sanemi and Obanai Get a Glimpse of the Infinity Castle

The first episode of the Demon Slayer Hashira Training Arc follows Wind Hashira Sanemi Shinazugaawa and Snake Hashira Iguro Obanai as they team up to save villagers who have been taken by demons from an abandoned castle. As they encounter a horde of weaker demons, they ponder the strange situation at hand.

Despite their best efforts to vanquish the demons, the first one manages to flee into the Infinity Castle, causing Sanemi and Obanai to enter as well. Unfortunately, their endeavor to rid the castle of the demon is unsuccessful as they are ultimately expelled from its premises.

The focus then turns to Kanao Kocho’s arrival back at the Butterfly Mansion, where she reunites with her sister Shinobu Kocho. They discuss their recent victory at the Swordsmith Village, where they were able to defeat two upper-rank demons. Shinobu predicts that Muzan’s next plan will be to send demons to capture Nezuko, who has gained immunity to sunlight. In response, she declares that an emergency meeting of the Hashira has been called.

As Tanjiro recovers, he also reflects on and talks about the recent events that occurred during the battles at the Swordsmith Village.

Demon Slayer: Hashira Training Arc Episode 1: Explanation of the Demon Slayer Marks at the Emergency Hashira Meeting

Sanemi in this episode (Image via Ufotable)
Sanemi in this episode (Image via Ufotable)

The focus of the story then turns to the Hashira meeting, which is being chaired by Amane Ubuyashiki as Kaguya Ubuyashiki’s (also known as Oyakata-sama or Maser Ubuyashiki) health has declined. Amane briefs the Hashira on the imminent final showdown with Muzan Kibutsuji and the Upper Moon demons.

She discloses the revelation of the Demon Slayer Marks and their origins, noting that they were previously concealed due to the dangerous obsession some had with obtaining them, which often resulted in failure. Additionally, she explains that these marks were first seen on the First Breathing swordsmen, who came close to defeating Muzan. She elaborates that the marks resonate once activated, with Tanjiro being the first in their generation to awaken this ability.

Despite the potential risk of early death at 25 for those with the mark, Tokito and Kanroji carefully outline the necessary conditions to awaken it. Despite the initial hesitation, the Hashira ultimately choose to proceed with their training. However, tensions arise when Tomioka abruptly departs, sparking a heated argument between Sanemi and Obanai.

Uzui conducting the Hashira training (Image via Ufotable)
Uzui conducting the Hashira training (Image via Ufotable)

Afterwards, the scene shifts to the Butterfly Mansion, and Zenitsu is taken aback upon seeing Nezuko greeting him upon his return. But when she mentions Inosuke, Zenitsu’s anger flares up. Meanwhile, Haganezuka delivers Tanjiro’s sword, now fixed and adorned with Rengoku’s sword guard.

Shortly after, Inosuke bursts into Tanjiro’s room by shattering the window and excitedly informs him about the group training program that will be led by the Hashira. The Hashira (with the exception of Giyu) then discuss the rigorous training schedule, which is scheduled to begin in three days under Himejima’s supervision. In the following scene, Tanjiro expresses his gratitude to Zenitsu for his helpful advice on increasing his speed, which proved to be advantageous in his battles at the Swordsmith Village.

Demon Slayer: Hashira Training Arc – Episode 1 Closing Events: The Hashira Training Begins

The first episode of the Demon Slayer Hashira Training Arc concludes with the start of the Hashira’s rigorous training. Uzui Tengen leads the initial training session for the Hashira, giving a brief glimpse of the lower-ranked corps members undergoing their own training. This episode also offers a preview of the challenging training sessions that lie ahead for the Hashira.

In the following sequence, Tanjiro is given a letter by Master Ubuyashiki, urging him to persuade Giyu to join in the training. A brief moment with Amane and Master Ubuyashiki highlights his declining health. The episode concludes with Lady Tamayo being personally invited by Master Ubuyashiki to visit the Ubuyashiki Mansion and assist in their mission to defeat Muzan.

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