In this episode, Tanjiro Kamado manages to move a massive boulder under the guidance of the Stone Hashira, Himejima, thus overcoming his training challenge. This achievement elicits mixed reactions from his comrades. Inosuke also conquers his rock, while Zenitsu, who feels increasingly isolated due to his inability to keep up, receives a mysterious message from his sparrow messenger, Chuntaro.

When Tanjiro becomes severely dehydrated, Himejima intervenes and offers him both physical and moral support. He praises Tanjiro for prioritizing the lives of the people in the Swordsmith Village over that of his demon-possessed sister during a critical moment. Tanjiro passes the praise on to Nezuko, who made her own decisions independently.

Himejima shares his moving backstory, recounting his past as a teacher and guardian at an orphanage. He tells of a tragic encounter with a demon that led to the deaths of several children under his care. Despite his inner strength, Himejima was misunderstood and imprisoned until he was taken in by Ubuyashiki.

Meanwhile, Zenitsu struggles with the contents of his message, which hints at a personal decision to take on an important task. Tanjiro, attempting to support Zenitsu through a shared meal, notices a marked change in Zenitsu's usually fearful demeanor.

Later, Tanjiro visits Giyu, the Water Hashira, and witnesses a training session between Giyu and the Wind Hashira, Shinazugawa, who leaves the session in frustration. This encounter highlights the intense nature of the Hashira Training. At the end of the episode, Shinazugawa detects the presence of a demon, suggesting an infiltration by Muzan Kibutsuji and paving the way for upcoming conflicts as he sets off toward the Ubuyashiki estate.