Ep 31. The Age Chooses Shishio?

The Age Chooses Shishio? is the 31st episode of the second season of the anime series Rurouni Kenshin. The episode begins with the introduction of the main antagonist character Shishio Makoto and his army, called the Juppongatana or the Ten Swords, who have been plotting to overthrow the government and bring back the era of swords.

The episode is set after the events of the Kyoto Arc in which Kenshin Himura, the main protagonist, defeated Shishio and stopped his plans to start a violent revolution. However, in this episode, it is revealed that Shishio is not dead and has returned to continue his cause. He is seen meeting with his fellow conspirators, including Yumi Komagata, his lover, and Hoji Sadojima, who was once his teacher.

Meanwhile, Kenshin is still recovering from his injuries and living peacefully with his friends in Tokyo, but he senses something dark is brewing in the background and decides to investigate. Along with his friends, Kaoru Kamiya, Sanosuke Sagara, and Yahiko Myojin, Kenshin begins to gather information about Shishio's plans and whereabouts.

As the story progresses, it is revealed that Shishio has built a massive ship called the Rengoku, which he plans to use as a base for his operation. He is also recruiting new members for his army, including elite swordsmen and warriors from all over Japan. One of the new members is a blind swordsman named Usui Uonuma, who possesses incredible skills and powers that make him a formidable opponent for Kenshin.

The episode also shows the political turmoil of the era, with the government struggling to maintain control amidst the chaos and rebellion. The Prime Minister seeks Kenshin's help to stop Shishio, but Kenshin refuses, stating that he does not want to get involved in political affairs anymore. However, he changes his mind when he realizes that Shishio's actions will affect innocent people and endanger his friends.

In the climax of the episode, Kenshin confronts Shishio aboard the Rengoku, and a fierce battle ensues between the two legendary swordsmen. The fight is intense and brutal, with both Kenshin and Shishio using their unique fighting styles and techniques. Meanwhile, their friends battle Shishio's army and face various challenges and obstacles.

The episode ends with a cliffhanger, leaving the viewers wondering about the fate of the characters and the outcome of the conflict. Overall, The Age Chooses Shishio? is an action-packed and exciting episode that sets the stage for the upcoming battles and events in the series.