Mastering One Move to Perfection: An Analysis of the Evolution of All Techniques of Zenitsu Agatsuma in "Demon Slayer"

In "Demon Slayer," Zenitsu Agatsuma has become one of the most popular characters due to his unique fighting style and distinct personality. Although he only mastered the First Form of "Thunder Breathing," he forged his own path to strength through relentless refinement of this single technique to its peak and explosive power that surpasses his limits at critical moments. This article will provide a complete analysis of the evolution and power of all of Zenitsu Agatsuma's techniques.

Basics and Core: Thunder Breathing, First Form "Thunderclap and Flash"

"Thunder Breathing" is one of the five basic breathing styles derived from Sun Breathing, emphasizing channeling power into the legs to unleash lightning-fast slashes like a thunderbolt. However, limited by his talent, Zenitsu only ever learned the most basic "First Form: Thunderclap and Flash." This technique involves highly concentrating power into the feet to perform an ultra-high-speed straight-line dash and draw cut, so fast that even demons struggle to react.

Interestingly, in the early part of the story, the extremely timid Zenitsu could only unleash this potential unconsciously when his fear peaked and he fell asleep.

From Single to Continuous: Application Techniques That Sublimate One Move

Aware of his weakness of knowing only one move, Zenitsu took to heart the teachings of his trainer "Grandfather" Jigoro Kuwajima, continuously refining "Thunderclap and Flash" to evolve it from a simple straight-line attack into more versatile combo techniques.

• First Form: Thunderclap and Flash - Sixfold This is an enhanced version of "Thunderclap and Flash," first used by Zenitsu against the Spider Brother (Older Brother) in the Natagumo Mountain Arc. To compensate for the weakness of the straight trajectory being easily read, he used the surrounding terrain to perform six consecutive high-speed directional changes, making his path unpredictable.

• First Form: Thunderclap and Flash - Eightfold In the Mugen Train Arc, to cover Inosuke's attack on Upper Rank Six, Daki, Zenitsu performed a further enhanced version of "Sixfold." Eight consecutive lightning dashes not only demonstrated greater speed but also showcased his more masterful control of the technique.

• First Form: Thunderclap and Flash - Godspeed This is the ultimate acceleration form of "Thunderclap and Flash," first appearing in the Entertainment District Arc. Zenitsu pushes his speed to the limit, becoming so fast that even an Upper Rank demon cannot react. However, this move places an extreme burden on his legs and can only be used a maximum of twice in a single battle, making it a technique that stakes his very limits.

Transcending Legacy with Rage: The Self-Created "Seventh Form: Flaming Thunder God"

The pinnacle of Zenitsu Agatsuma's techniques is embodied in his fateful duel within the Infinity Castle against his senior disciple-turned-demon, Kaigaku. Kaigaku had learned all Thunder Breathing forms except the First Form and mocked Zenitsu for it. Bearing the grief and rage of his grandfather's seppuku over this matter, Zenitsu, in a fully conscious state, created a technique uniquely his own.

• Seventh Form: Flaming Thunder God (Honoikazuchi no Kami) This is the ultimate secret art of Thunder Breathing, created by Zenitsu himself. He sublimates his lifelong mastery of "Thunderclap and Flash," transforming into a golden thunder dragon moving at a speed completely imperceptible to the naked eye to deliver a slash. Its power is immense, beheading the Upper Rank demon Kaigaku in a single strike. "Flaming Thunder God" is not only Zenitsu's strongest technique but also symbolizes his complete overcoming of inner cowardice, proving in his own way that "refining one move to its peak" can also reach an unparalleled summit.

From the simple "Thunderclap and Flash" to the self-created "Flaming Thunder God," every evolution of Zenitsu Agatsuma's techniques represents his spiritual growth. Through his actions, he proved that even starting from a lower point than others, with unyielding belief and relentless effort, one can ultimately pierce the darkness and unleash their own brilliant thunderous light.

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