The world-building of the Demon Slayer series heavily relies on its diverse cast of characters. As a result, fans who have read the entire manga series often go back to previous chapters to analyze the consequences of any changes in events.
For instance, a character’s demise or a change in allegiance can greatly impact the overarching plot. These types of conversations are frequently held among members of the anime community, and Demon Slayer is not an exception.
Despite his untimely death in the Mugen Train arc while fighting against Akaza, Kyojuro Rengoku, also known as the Flame Hashira, continues to be deeply missed by fans due to his admirable principles and charming personality. Had Rengoku not sacrificed his life and instead chosen to embrace Akaza’s offer to become a demon, the course of the overall story would have been drastically altered.
This article includes significant spoilers from the manga chapters.
The Effect of Rengoku Becoming a Demon on the Overarching Story in Demon Slayer
During the Mugen Train incident, Kyojuro Rengoku encountered Akaza. The Hashira was accompanied by Inosuke, Tanjiro, and Zenitsu, but their battle against the Lower Moon demon left them drained. As a result, the protagonist and his team were unable to face an Upper Moon demon due to the vast difference in their fighting skills.
The Flame Hashira possessed an unwavering sense of justice. Acknowledging Rengoku’s dedication and prowess in martial arts, Akaza, who was fixated on fighting, extended an invitation for Rengoku to join the ranks of demons. This offer was a test to see Rengoku’s full potential as a fighter, as there was a distinct disparity in abilities between humans and demons, which motivated the offer.
Had Rengoku accepted it, he would have undoubtedly become at least an Upper Moon 5 demon. Moreover, he would have been able to wield a sword, utilize Breathing techniques, and execute moves on par with the Hashira. If this had been the case, Tanjiro Kamado, Zenitsu Agatsuma, Nezuko Kamado, and Inosuke Hashibira would have perished on that fateful day.
If Tanjiro had not died on that day, no other demon hunter would have been able to unlock the Demon Slayer Mark. An important aspect of the Mark is its resonant effect, which means that those who come into contact with the person who unlocked it have the potential to do so themselves, as long as they meet the physical requirements of the Mark. This resonant effect played a crucial role in the defeat of Upper Moon demons and Kibutsuji Muzan.
If the demon hunters had not possessed the Demon Slayer Mark, they would have struggled to defeat the Upper Moon demons. Both Uzui and the remaining Hashira would have perished. This is due to the fact that defeating Muzan required the collective strength of Tanjiro, Zenitsu, Inosuke, and all the Hashira.
Towards the conclusion of the series, Giyu Tomioka and Sanemi Shinazugawa stood as the sole surviving Hashira. The absence of Tanjiro, the only practitioner of Sun Breathing, would have greatly affected the outcome. The choice made by Rengoku had the potential to significantly change the main plot.
Keep an eye out for additional updates on anime and manga throughout the year 2024.
- Demon Slayer season 4: Hashira Training arc complete release schedule
- Demon Slayer season 4 episode 8 review: The perfect setup for Infinity Castle arc
Leave a Reply