Zenitsu Agatsuma isn’t exactly the poster child for bravery. Even casual viewers of Demon Slayer can see that. The guy practically quakes in his boots at the mere thought of danger. His Thunder Breathing skills might be lightning-fast, but Zenitsu’s true power only kicks in when he’s knocked out cold or absolutely petrified.
But hold on, because in season 4, episode 7, Zenitsu’s lackadaisical demon-slaying journey takes a sharp turn. Enter Chuntaro, his trusty bird, delivering a letter that flips Zenitsu’s world upside down. What could possibly be in that letter to rattle our perpetually jittery hero?
‘Demon Slayer’: What happened To Zenitsu?
Well, buckle up, because chapter 144 of the Demon Slayer manga spills the tea. Turns out, the letter spills the beans about Zenitsu’s master and grandfather, Jigoro Kuwajima. Old Jigoro wasn’t just any Thunder Hashira—he was the one who schooled Zenitsu in Thunder Breathing. But here’s the kicker: Jigoro didn’t meet a peaceful end. No, he committed Seppuku, all thanks to his former student Kaigaku, who veered off the righteous demon-slaying path and became a demonic turncoat.
Kaigaku’s betrayal didn’t just stain Jigoro’s honor; it shattered Zenitsu’s world. Learning of his master’s tragic fate lit a fire in Zenitsu’s heart. Suddenly, the goofball we knew transformed into a driven warrior, hell-bent on avenging Jigoro and confronting Kaigaku’s treachery.
Zenitsu’s newfound resolve isn’t just about vengeance, though. He blames himself for Kaigaku’s descent into darkness, believing his very existence and skills played a role in pushing his former comrade over the edge. Now, with a steely determination and a heart heavy with guilt, Zenitsu vows to restore his master’s honor and make amends for the turmoil his presence inadvertently caused.
This seismic shift marks a monumental evolution for Zenitsu. No longer just the comic relief, he steps up as a mature and purposeful fighter. His journey isn’t just about battling demons anymore; it’s a quest for redemption and duty, driven by an unwavering respect for his late mentor.
So, as Zenitsu charges headlong into his destiny, haunted by the echoes of Jigoro’s tragic end, one thing’s clear: the timid boy has evolved into a warrior with a mission, transforming the Demon Slayer narrative and solidifying his place as a pivotal player in the saga.