The highly anticipated Episode 20 of Sword of the Demon Hunter: Kijin Gentosho, titled “Wish (Part 1),” delves deep into the complex internal struggles of its protagonist, Jinya, while escalating the external conflict with the formidable Hatakeyama Yasuhide. Airing in Japan on August 26, 2025, this installment pushes the narrative forward by revealing crucial character backstories and setting the stage for significant confrontations. Fans eagerly awaiting developments in Jinya’s journey across 170 years will find this episode pivotal as it uncovers deeper layers of his demonic existence and his unwavering resolve.
Jinya’s Demonic Revelation and Confrontation
At the heart of “Wish (Part 1)” lies a dramatic turning point: Jinya’s transformation into a demon during a brutal battle against Tsuchiura, Hatakeyama Yasuhide’s loyal retainer. This isn’t merely a physical change; it’s a profound moment witnessed by Naotsugu and his daughter, Nomari, who have previously been saved by Jinya. This public revelation forces Jinya to confront his true nature in front of those he has protected, raising questions about acceptance and fear within the human world he strives to safeguard.
The intense combat with Tsuchiura is a focal point, showcasing Jinya’s raw power and determination. Despite the physical toll and the exposure of his demonic form, Jinya firmly declares his intent to “defeat Tsuchiura.” This declaration underscores his relentless commitment to his path, even as it becomes increasingly fraught with personal and moral dilemmas.
The Weight of a Promise: Jinya’s Resolve
Jinya’s declaration to defeat Tsuchiura is more than just a battle cry; it’s a testament to his ingrained sense of duty. His interactions with Ofu, a fellow demon, become a critical emotional anchor in this episode. Concerned by his circumstances, Ofu approaches Jinya, prompting a deeply personal dialogue. It is through this interaction that Jinya begins to articulate the profound reasons behind his unending fight against demons, ultimately confiding in her about the pivotal events that transpired in Kadono. This heart-to-heart allows Jinya to gain a greater understanding of his own contradictory and sometimes irrational motivations, even recognizing them as a form of “death drive.”
Ofu’s role here is crucial; rather than offering easy solutions, she celebrates Jinya’s humanity despite his demonic form, drawing parallels between his choices and those of her late father, Hyoma. The episode beautifully illustrates that the essence of Jinya’s being, particularly his protective instinct for his adopted daughter, remains unchanged, even with a demon’s hand. The acceptance shown by Nomari and Miura, who can look past his demonic appearance, serves as a powerful reminder of the bonds Jinya has forged.
Tsuchiura’s Past and Yasuhide’s Ambitious Plans
Beyond Jinya’s internal and external struggles, “Wish (Part 1)” also sheds light on the antagonist’s side, particularly Tsuchiura. Flashbacks sprinkled throughout the episode hint at Tsuchiura’s own complex origins, suggesting that he, like Jinya, might have once been human. Details emerge about his apprenticeship to the swordsmith Kameone and his demon wife, as well as a tragic past love with a human woman. These glimpses into Tsuchiura’s history add layers to his character, positioning him not merely as a villain but as a figure possibly driven by his own set of “wishes” and past experiences.
Simultaneously, the broader political conflict intensifies. Hatakeyama Yasuhide, determined to counter the anti-shogunate faction, devises a dangerous strategy: he plans to dispatch Tsuchiura alongside approximately one hundred demons to Kyoto. This strategic move elevates the stakes of the ongoing conflict, indicating a major escalation that could plunge the capital into chaos and bring the fight directly to the heart of power. The battle between Jinya and Tsuchiura outside Kyoto, amidst a rainy night, underscores the gravity of these unfolding events.
Production and Narrative Legacy
Sword of the Demon Hunter: Kijin Gentosho is an anime adaptation of the popular historical fantasy novel series written by Motoo Nakanishi. The anime series, produced by Yokohama Animation Lab and directed by Kazuya Aiura, premiered in March 2025 and has been airing for two consecutive cours. The narrative is celebrated for its sweeping Japanese-style historical fantasy that chronicles a 170-year journey, following Jinya, a demon warrior who constantly questions the meaning behind wielding his sword.
“Wish (Part 1)” continues this rich tradition, offering a character-driven episode that, while not visually extravagant, excels in advancing the story through its compelling emotional beats and revelations. The masterful blend of action, deep character exploration, and overarching historical fantasy themes solidify Sword of the Demon Hunter as a compelling narrative for fans of the genre. As Jinya continues his rematch with Tsuchiura, the stage is set for an emotionally charged conclusion to this particular arc, promising further introspection and intense battles in the episodes to come.
