Zenitsu has been missing in action in Demon Slayer: Swordsmith Village Arc. He was sent on a different mission, but he’ll finally make a comeback in the Hashira Training Arc, where he will be reminded of Kaigaku's existence. So, what is the relationship between Zenitsu and Kaigaku in Demon Slayer?
Spoiler Warning: This article contains major spoilers from the Demon Slayer manga.
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How Are Zenitsu and Kaigaku Related in Demon Slayer?
For starters, Zenitsu and Kaigaku are not blood-related, which means they are not siblings like some people think they are.
They just so happen to have the potential to become the next Thunder Hashira, as Jigoro Kuwajima deems them to be.
Back in the day, Kaigaku was a thief and an orphan who was under Gyomei Himejima’s care in the temple.
At some point, the other orphans caught Kaigaku stealing temple money, which resulted in him being chased out of the temple.
That’s when Kaigaku encountered a demon, whom he led towards the orphan to spare his life.
Since then, Kaigaku has learned that strength and survival are the two most important things in the world. In addition, he also believes that it’s alright to sacrifice other people, especially the weak, for his preservation.
Eventually, Kaigaku found his way to Jigoro Kuwajima’s care, where he learned thunder breathing together with Zenitsu.
Unlike Zenitsu, Kaigaku is arrogant and prideful and thinks that Zenitsu doesn’t have the knack to train with him, let alone train under Jigoro.
When Kaigaku became an official demon slayer, he was sent on a mission where he came across the Upper Rank One, Kokushibo.
Knowing that he would die against Kokushibo, he immediately surrendered to save his own life and became a demon instead.
The next time Zenitsu meets Kaigaku again will be during the Infinity Castle Arc, where they have to fight each other to the death.
Does Kaigaku Hate Zenitsu in Demon Slayer?
Yes, Kaigaku hates Zenitsu in Demon Slayer. He sees Zenitsu as a weakling who doesn’t deserve to train under Jigoro, not to mention act familiar with the former Thunder Hashira. He also hates it whenever Zenitsu calls Jigoro "Gramps".
On the other hand, Zenitsu looks up to Kaigaku’s swordsmanship despite his arrogant and prideful behavior.
He believes that Kaigaku is a very special person who has the talent to become a highly capable Thunder Hashira who can protect people and slay demons.
Everything changed when Kaigaku became a demon and Jigoro Kuwajima committed seppuku to atone for his apprentice’s sins.
Zenitsu blamed Kaigaku for the bitter end of Jigoro, and he also detested Kaigaku’s decision to turn against humans.
Who Wins Between Zenitsu and Kaigaku in Demon Slayer?
In the final fight between Zenitsu and Kaigaku in the Infinity Castle Arc of Demon Slayer, Zenitsu wins after using Honoikazuchi no Kami, Thunder Breathing’s Seventh Form. He beheaded Kaigaku, which led to his demise.
In the end, Yushiro rescued and treated Zenitsu’s injuries. In a dream, Zenitsu reunites with Jigoro, who tells him that he is his pride and joy.
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