Demon Slayer Chapter 103

Demon Slayer Chapter 103, titled "Yoriichi Type Zero," delves deeper into the mysteries of the mechanical training doll and the profound connections it holds to the Demon Slayer Corps' past. As Tanjiro Kamado observes Muichiro Tokito's intense training with the doll, he feels a strange familiarity with its face, a sense of having seen it before. He questions the young boy, Kotetsu, about the doll's six arms, learning that they are essential to mimic the movements of the real swordsman it was modeled after. Kotetsu reveals that the doll originated in the Sengoku period, making it over three hundred years old, yet remarkably durable due to the unparalleled craftsmanship of his ancestors—a level of skill that cannot be replicated in the present. This explanation clarifies Kotetsu's fierce protectiveness over the doll and his initial reluctance to hand over the key, as he fears its irreversible damage, setting the stage for Tanjiro's respect for the village's heritage in the Demon Slayer manga.

Tanjiro continues to observe Muichiro, admiring the Hashira's uncanny skill despite their similar age. Muichiro's Kasugai Crow proudly praises her master's abilities, referring to him as a descendant of Sun Breathing users and a true genius, far surpassing Tanjiro. Amazed by this heritage, Tanjiro curiously asks why Muichiro doesn't use Sun Breathing, which earns him an angry assault from the crow. Amidst the attack, Tanjiro vividly recalls his recent dream, realizing that the swordsman he saw had a face identical to the doll's. The crow grumpily dismisses his words due to the swordsman's ancient origins, but Kotetsu, with a thoughtful insight, suggests that perhaps it's a passed-on memory, akin to swordsmiths inheriting memories of their crafts from ancestors. Though the crow scoffs at the idea, Tanjiro introduces himself to the boy, who reciprocates by revealing his name as Kotetsu, forging a new bond rooted in shared curiosity and respect for history.

The tranquil observations are shattered when the group hears a loud sound, witnessing Muichiro brutally destroying parts of the doll, sending pieces of its armor flying. Devastated, Kotetsu runs away, hiding in a tree and weeping over the damaged Yoriichi Type Zero. Tanjiro finds him and attempts to motivate him, assuring him he will eventually improve and be able to fix it. Kotetsu, however, expresses his self-doubt, feeling too pathetic to undertake such a task. Tanjiro climbs the tree and flicks Kotetsu, a gentle yet firm method to snap him back to reality. He passionately urges Kotetsu to make the effort and develop the necessary skills, emphasizing that even if he can't fix Yoriichi Type Zero himself, future generations will, as long as the foundation is laid. Tanjiro draws a parallel to his own struggles, affirming that even if he dies before achieving his goals, someone else will eventually succeed in his place if the groundwork is set. Cheered by Tanjiro's unwavering encouragement, Kotetsu and Tanjiro resolve to work hard together, strengthening their bond and mutual dedication.

During a subsequent walk through the forest, Tanjiro and Kotetsu encounter Muichiro again. Muichiro expresses that his training was helpful, but his sword broke, so he intends to take one of the doll's swords. He indifferently tosses his broken blade to Tanjiro, asking him to discard it. Despite his blunt attitude, Tanjiro notes that Muichiro lacks a malicious aura, suggesting his rudeness isn't intentional. As a storm brews overhead, Tanjiro rushes to Kotetsu, who appears lost in thought, staring at the broken doll in the rain. Tanjiro suggests they check if the doll can still move, and Kotetsu agrees. As they lift it, the doll remains still for a few moments before suddenly shifting into a fighting stance, much to Tanjiro's excitement. The chapter concludes with Kotetsu fiercely ordering Tanjiro to train with the doll, setting the stage for Tanjiro's rigorous training and a potential breakthrough in his fighting abilities within the exhilarating Swordsmith Village Arc of the Demon Slayer manga.