The highly anticipated first episode of season 4 of Demon Slayer aired on May 12, 2024. Fans of the series were ecstatic to receive a 1-hour special as the premiere, which also featured some new anime-original scenes that enhanced the overall viewing experience.
The initial episode featured the Hashiras making an effort to find time in their hectic schedules to train the demon slayers, with the goal of helping as many fighters as possible awaken their demon slayer mark. Additionally, the episode uncovered that Tanjiro was the first individual to successfully awaken his demon slayer mark.
Despite the emotional impact of the episode, there was one heartwarming moment that brought tears to the eyes of many fans. As Tanjiro rested in bed, Haganezuka arrived with a replacement sword – the very same one he had used to defeat one of the Upper Moon Demons in the previous arc. To make it even more special, Haganezuka had polished the sword and attached the hilt of Rengoku’s sword, giving it a special significance for Tanjiro.
Note: This article includes the author’s opinions and may contain spoilers from episode 1 of season 4 of Demon Slayer.
The Return of Rengoku in Demon Slayer Season 4 Episode 1
The first episode of Demon Slayer season 4 opened with an anime-exclusive scene featuring the Wind Hashira and the Serpent Hashira as they snuck into a deserted castle that had been the site of multiple disappearances. While pursuing a demon within the castle, they encountered a portal that led directly to the Infinity Castle. Despite the Wind Hashira’s attempts to reach it, the castle vanished before he could reach it.
Returning to the Demon Slayer Corps, Ubuyashiki’s wife, Amane, was observed leading a meeting with the Hashira. She urged each of them to awaken their demon slayer marks, emphasizing the potential impact it could have in the looming battle against Kibutsuji Muzan. Amane specifically asked the Mist Hashira and Love Hashira to demonstrate the awakening process, as they had recently experienced it themselves.
The Mist Hashira provided a thorough explanation, prompting Amane to depart. The Stone Hashira then proposed a plan to the other Hashira, suggesting they train their apprentices together in order to increase the chances of awakening demon slayer marks. The Water Hashira, on the other hand, declined to offer his help and chose to train independently.
After waking up, Tanjiro was greeted by one of the clean-up brigade officers from the Demon Slayer Corp who offered him food in season 4 episode 1 of Demon Slayer. As he enjoyed his snacks, Haganezuka arrived and presented Tanjiro with a new sword. He then sat next to Tanjiro and encouraged him to unsheathe it.
As Tanjiro unsheathed the sword, he marveled at its stunning black hue and observed its hilt. He couldn’t help but notice that it was identical to the sword of the late Rengoku, which was pierced during the Infinity Train fight. Instantly, tears welled up in Tanjiro’s eyes as he gazed upon the sword, feeling as though Rengoku was still by his side.
The Flame Hashira, also known as Rengoku, played a crucial role in the second season and movie of Demon Slayer. Sadly, he met his demise while fighting against Akaza, the Upper Moon Three of Kibutsuji Muzan’s Twelve Kizuki. Despite Akaza’s repeated attempts to persuade him to join the ranks of the demons, Rengoku remained steadfast in his determination to defeat Akaza.
Despite his best efforts, he was no match for the demon who forcefully thrust his arm into Rengoku’s body. However, Rengoku refused to give up even in his dying moments and managed to trap the demon’s hand inside himself, preventing it from escaping as the Sun began to set. Eventually, the demon had no choice but to retreat, leaving Rengoku victorious in his last act of bravery.
As the day began, Tanjiro and his team came together around Rengoku, brainstorming ways to rescue him. Before his passing, the Hashira entrusted his legacy to the young warriors, leaving them all with heavy hearts, especially Tanjiro. Now carrying a sword with Rengoku’s hilt, Tanjiro could sense his mentor’s presence in every battle, instilling him with added courage as he battled demons.
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