Season 3 Episode 5 of Fire Force has arrived, and it’s a fiery mix of intense battles, emerging threats, and crucial discoveries. Released on May 2, 2025, this episode, titled “Chance Meeting with an Arch-Enemy,” showcases the beginning of the clash between Arthur Boyle and Dragon, one of the most anticipated moments from the manga.
The Premise
Episode 5 wastes no time diving into the action. It picks up with the aftermath of the previous episode’s cliffhanger, where Captain Obi was attacked with an infernal insect. While Obi writhes in pain, Shinra is caught in a fierce battle against Leonard Burns. Meanwhile, the rest of Company 8 rushes to Obi’s aid, but their path is blocked by a formidable new enemy: Dragon the Destroyer.
Obi’s Predicament and Shinra’s Struggle
The episode initially uses Obi’s predicament for humor, but quickly shifts to highlight the urgency of the situation. The infernal insect threatens to transform him, and the clock is ticking. Shinra continues his desperate attempt to save Obi from the corrupting influence of the infernal insect, while Leonard Burns relentlessly attacks.
Arthur vs. Dragon: A Knight’s Errand
As Company 8 tries to reach Obi, Dragon emerges, and Arthur immediately steps forward, believing it is his duty as a knight to defeat the dragon. Arthur sees Dragon as an actual dragon and vows to slay him, embracing his delusions to enhance his strength. This perception amplifies his abilities, transforming his Excalibur into a Dragon-killing Holy Sword.
The Battle Unfolds
The battle between Arthur and Dragon is a central focus of the episode. Dragon’s fearsome power is immediately apparent, with Maki and Tamaki sensing his immense strength. Dragon demonstrates powers of Infernalization, dragon’s breath, and overwhelming speed and endurance.
Arthur’s delusions and “Self-Image” continue to affect his Excalibur, enhancing its power. He even conjures a plasma mantle to protect himself from Dragon’s fiery breath. However, despite Arthur’s enhanced abilities and transformed Excalibur, he struggles to land a decisive blow on Dragon.
A Crushing Blow
In a moment that shatters Arthur’s perception, Dragon overpowers him, breaking his Excalibur. This leaves Arthur demoralized and gravely injured. The episode emphasizes Dragon’s overwhelming strength, establishing him as a significant threat.
Shinra vs. Burns Continues
After Arthur’s defeat, the episode shifts back to Shinra’s fight with Leonard Burns. Their battle is intense, with Shinra displaying unwavering determination. Leonard Burns powers up, reaching stage three of his abilities, setting the stage for an even more challenging fight. The episode concludes with Shinra battling a raging Captain Burns, knowing that failure could mean the end for Captain Obi.
Unraveling the Mystery
The episode also includes a brief scene with side characters who are investigating the mysteries surrounding doppelgangers, infernals, and human combustion. Princess Hibana and Burns’ subordinates at Station 1 are all trying to piece together the truth, hinting that they are getting closer to a breakthrough.
Final Thoughts
“Fire Force” Season 3 Episode 5 is a mix of intense action and critical plot development. The episode is visually impressive, especially during Arthur’s battle with Dragon and Shinra’s clash with Burns. While some critics felt that Arthur’s battle lacked urgency, the episode successfully sets the stage for future conflicts and raises the stakes for the main characters.
The episode leaves viewers with several questions: Can Obi resist the transformation? Will Arthur recover from his defeat and find a way to defeat Dragon? And what secrets will be uncovered regarding the mysteries of the Fire Force universe?. Fans eagerly await the next episode to see what happens next.
