Ep 5. The Reversed-Blade Sword vs. The Zanbatou
- TVPG
- February 7, 1996
- 22 min
-
7.1 (12)
In Rurouni Kenshin season 1 episode 5, titled "The Reversed-Blade Sword vs. The Zanbatou", Kenshin encounters an old friend and fellow swordsman named Genzai who is seeking revenge against him. Genzai challenges Kenshin to a duel using his zanbatou, a massive sword that has the power to cut through anything. However, Kenshin refuses to fight with his own deadly sakabatou (reverse-blade sword), which he now uses to prevent taking the lives of his opponents.
Despite Kenshin's initial reluctance, Genzai presses on with his attack, forcing Kenshin to defend himself without using deadly force and testing the limits of his new fighting style. Meanwhile, a group of bandits led by a man named Nakajo also enter the town, seeking to take control of it. Nakajo's gang starts wreaking havoc, terrorizing the locals and causing destruction wherever they go.
As Kenshin continues to try and fend off Genzai without causing any harm, he finds himself increasingly frustrated, realizing that his old friend has become consumed by anger and hatred. He reflects on his own past and how he has come to understand the true nature of sword fighting and the value of life, even in the midst of battle.
In the end, Kenshin and Genzai face off in a final, climactic showdown, with Kenshin using all of his skills and experience to try and stop his friend from succumbing to darkness and bloodlust. The battle between the two warriors is intense and brutal, as both demonstrate their exceptional skills and strength.
Overall, "The Reversed-Blade Sword vs. The Zanbatou" is a thrilling and action-packed episode that showcases Kenshin's unique fighting style and emphasizes the importance of valuing human life. It also explores the complex emotions and motivations behind revenge and how it can ultimately consume an individual, driving them to do terrible things in the name of justice. The episode serves as a great continuation of the series, further developing Kenshin's character and setting the stage for future conflicts and battles.
