Will Rengoku Return in Demon Slayer Season 2?
The burning question on every Demon Slayer fan’s mind: Will the beloved Kyojuro Rengoku return in Season 2? The short, direct answer is no, not in the way you might hope. While Rengoku’s spirit and impact are profoundly felt, he does not return in the second season in a resurrected or revived form. His tragic death in the Mugen Train Arc is a pivotal moment that shapes the narrative moving forward, making his physical return impossible within the established storyline.
However, the article snippet does reference a character named “Tojuro” and a reincarnation of Tanjiro named “Sumihiko.” These characters appear much later in the manga’s narrative, not in the anime’s second season. The article is providing a spoiler about an epilogue. This epilogue is set many years after the main story’s conclusion, where reincarnated versions of the characters live peaceful lives. It should be emphasized that this epilogue appearance is different from the character of Rengoku in the main series. Therefore, while there is no traditional comeback for Rengoku in season two, his legacy is carried on throughout the story and an epilogue.
Rengoku’s Enduring Impact
Though he does not physically return, Rengoku’s influence is monumental in Season 2. The Entertainment District Arc, which makes up the bulk of Season 2, is directly impacted by the events of the Mugen Train. Tanjiro, Zenitsu, and Inosuke are deeply affected by Rengoku’s death, carrying his lessons and “set your heart ablaze” mantra forward. His unwavering spirit, dedication to duty, and powerful fighting style continue to inspire our core trio and the other demon slayers as they face new threats.
Rengoku’s absence underscores the gravity of the demon threat and the high stakes faced by the Demon Slayer Corps. It serves as a constant reminder of the sacrifices made in the battle against demons. Furthermore, Rengoku’s death provides a powerful catalyst for Tanjiro’s growth and development as a demon slayer, pushing him to become stronger and embody Rengoku’s ideals.
The Importance of the Mugen Train Arc
The Mugen Train Arc is a significant narrative turning point for Demon Slayer. While initially released as a movie, it is canonical and integral to understanding the emotional and plot-related arcs. It sets the stage for the challenges ahead and highlights the brutal nature of the demon world. The arc introduces the concept of Upper Rank demons with the introduction of Akaza, establishing a new tier of threat that directly contrasts with Rengoku’s powerful but human strength. This contrast further emphasizes the difficulties and trials that the remaining Demon Slayers will face.
Season 2 of the Demon Slayer anime explicitly references the aftermath of the Mugen Train events, showing how the loss of the Flame Hashira has changed the dynamic for Tanjiro and his comrades, driving home the fact that he is gone. In this sense, Rengoku is a constant presence, though not in a physical one.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To help clarify any further questions about Rengoku and his role in the series, we’ve compiled some frequently asked questions:
1. Why didn’t Rengoku get a Demon Slayer Mark?
Despite his exceptional strength and the intense battle against Akaza, Rengoku did not awaken a Demon Slayer Mark. This is likely because the awakening of a Mark requires a specific combination of intense emotion, physical strain, and latent power. The article notes that only those with “sufficient skill level and latent power can produce a mark.” Rengoku’s circumstances, while intense, did not meet the precise criteria.
2. Is it true that Rengoku is reincarnated as “Tojuro”?
Yes, in the very final chapters of the manga, long after the main storyline, there is an epilogue showing the reincarnation of characters. One of these is indeed a version of Rengoku, named Tojuro. However, this is in a world completely removed from the main timeline. The events of this epilogue are not a factor in the main story and specifically not related to season 2.
3. Who killed Rengoku?
Rengoku was killed by Akaza, the Upper Rank Three demon, during the Mugen Train Arc. He fought valiantly and was able to protect everyone on the train, but Akaza proved too powerful.
4. Why didn’t Akaza turn Rengoku into a demon?
Akaza did beg Rengoku to become a demon, as he respected Rengoku’s strength. However, Rengoku refused, valuing his humanity and duty to protect humans. The article states that Rengoku knew becoming a demon “would mean all he meant to be as hashira, would mean for nothing”. Ultimately, Akaza did not force Rengoku to become a demon and instead killed him when he refused.
5. How old was Rengoku when he died?
Rengoku was 20 years old at the time of his death. His birthday is on May 10th.
6. Who was Rengoku’s mentor?
The article mentions that Rengoku served as a mentor to Mitsuri Kanroji, the Love Hashira. They shared a close relationship, with Mitsuri looking up to him as an older brother figure.
7. Does Rengoku have a romantic interest?
According to the article, Rengoku was single and had no romantic interests. However, he held close relationships with many people, including Mitsuri.
8. Who is the new Flame Hashira?
After Rengoku’s death, there isn’t a new Flame Hashira established in the main storyline, and Rengoku’s position remains vacant. The article incorrectly references that Rengoku became the Flame Hashira after his father; in the manga, it was already Rengoku’s position when his father stepped down.
9. How many Hashira died in the series?
The majority of Hashira die by the end of the manga. The article correctly states that everyone dies except for Sanemi, Giyu, and Tengen. The deaths include Kyojuro Rengoku, Shinobu Kocho, Muichiro Tokito, Mitsuri Kanroji, Obanai Iguro, and Gyomei Himejima.
10. Is Rengoku’s father also a Hashira?
Shinjuro Rengoku was indeed a former Flame Hashira before his son, Kyojuro. He had given up the position after an incident and was ultimately not the person who recommended his son become the Flame Hashira.
11. Does Rengoku have a son?
No, Rengoku did not have a son. He did, however, have a younger brother named Senjuro.
12. Why did Rengoku have to be killed off?
The article states that Rengoku’s death was necessary to avoid the trope of an overpowered protagonist. It also underscores the high cost of being a Demon Slayer. It is a moment that sets up a level of power of upper-rank demons and gives a clear motive to Tanjiro to reach new power levels.
13. What is Rengoku’s fighting style?
Rengoku’s fighting style is centered on Flame Breathing, which is a powerfull set of sword techniques focusing on fire and strength. His technique is very aggressive and offensive.
14. Was Rengoku the most friendly Hashira?
Yes, the article says that Rengoku is considered the most friendly Hashira with no negative character traits. His positive influence on others is noted.
15. How is Rengoku remembered in the series?
Despite his death, Rengoku is remembered as a hero whose spirit and ideals continue to drive the other characters. His death is a significant motivator for Tanjiro’s growth. In addition to his influence on the main cast, Rengoku is viewed highly by most people in the Demon Slayer Corp.
Conclusion
While Kyojuro Rengoku doesn’t return in Demon Slayer Season 2 in a physical sense, his impact is undeniably present. The lasting influence of his character and the events of the Mugen Train arc are deeply woven into the narrative, making his legacy an intrinsic part of the season’s story. His commitment, bravery, and the loss felt by the remaining demon slayers are all pivotal aspects of the overarching story, especially in the context of Season 2. While we may not see him on screen again, his “set your heart ablaze” mantra lives on in the hearts of the viewers and the characters of Demon Slayer.