The following contains spoilers of Demon Slayer Swordsmith Village Arc Episode 3, "A Sword From Over 300 Years Ago," now streaming on Crunchyroll and Netflix.
Demon Slayer has never failed to offer its fanbase intense action and gut-wrenching drama. Nezuko and Tanjiro Kamado, the primary characters, hardly ever have a chance to relax. Tengen Uzui and the gang helped Tanjiro kill an Upper Moon monster, and now Tanjiro has some free time to explore the illusive Swordsmith Village, where the swordsmiths who create the Nichirin swords used by the monster Slayer Corps reside.
The Swordsmith Village is located in a remote and isolated area, surrounded by dense forests and mountains. Its elusive and hidden nature is to ensure the safety of the swordsmiths. Few people are aware of where it really is (but that may no longer be the case). Theoretically, it's the perfect place for the diligent Demon Slayer Corps member to unwind, but episode 3's events show that Tanjiro's leisure time is finished, and the challenge he is currently facing might be the most vicious yet.
The Upper Moon Demons' Special Skills
Tanjiro has been enjoying the luxuries that the Swordsmith Village can offer, indulging in its hot springs and food. Moreover, his visit means the opportunity to train with Yoriichi Type Zero, which is likely the rumored weapon that can make one stronger. As the young Demon Slayer is enjoying himself, two Upper Moon demons make their entrance. These latest adversaries boast some unique skills and abilities that will challenge Tanjiro's newly-acquired strength.
When compared to other fantasy novels, The Ancient Magus' Bride gives its setting far less explanation and world-building. This is made worse by how frequently the series switches its subject, making its tempo difficult to follow. The final show, which mostly relies on the caliber of the manga source material that it has been stretching out thus far, sometimes feels disjointed and occasionally almost excruciatingly sluggish.
A Massacre May Be in Store for the Swordsmiths
Infiltration by the Upper Moons marks the beginning of yet another intense fight. As the demons reveal themselves, it becomes clear that their target is the swordsmiths. It is a smart, albeit ruthless, tactical decision: barring Genya, the peculiar Demon Slayer who uses guns, the Demon Slayer Corps all use weapons forged by the craftspeople who reside within the village. Civilians though they may be, the swordsmiths are a vital resource and, should the demons manage to eliminate them, the Demon Slayer Corps' fighting ability would be greatly reduced.
Furthermore, the village is a brilliant target because it largely relies on secrecy for protection. Since it is deeply secluded, the Demon Slayer Corps' forces in it are quite thin -- the Swordsmith Village's fate is basically hanging in the hands of Tanjiro and the few other Demon Slayers with him. Even though he has two Hashira with him, taking down Upper Moon Six required a joint operation between Tanjiro, Inosuke, Zenitsu and Tengen.
It is obvious that this assault on a weakly fortified civillian town was planned to be both effective and deadly, and the powers of the Upper Moons Four and Five make them especially well-suited for such a mission. Tanjiro regrettably has to return to work after his well-earned vacation. Fortunately for viewers, this most recent revelation indicates that Demon Slayer's Swordsmith Village Arc will have plenty of action.
