Ranma 1/2 (2024) - Episode 4

In the fourth episode titled "The Hunter," Hibiki Ryouga, a powerful martial artist with a notoriously poor sense of direction, sets out to confront Ranma Saotome over a missed duel. Although his destination is Tokyo, Ryouga ends up in Shikoku, where he finally arrives after taming a giant wild boar with one hand. He accuses Ranma of fleeing the planned fight, but Ranma explains that he waited three days before leaving since the duel's location was only half a kilometer away from Ryouga's house.

As an apology, Ranma offers Ryouga an expired loaf of bread, which the latter refuses. The two engage in a duel, with Ranma avoiding direct confrontation through agility and defense. The potential for collateral damage is significant, especially when Akane realizes she can't lift Ryouga's incredibly heavy umbrella. Worried for Ranma's safety, Akane warns him not to corner Ryouga.

During the fight, Ranma accidentally breaks a water dispenser, causing cold water to splash onto him and transform him into a girl. Ryouga is briefly shocked by Ranma's female form and his torn shirt, allowing Ranma to land a hit. When Ryouga realizes the girl is actually Ranma, he resumes the fight, throwing his bandanas like spinning blades.

Akane sees Ranma at a disadvantage and urges him to end the fight. As she intervenes, Akane trips and is nearly hit by the flying bandanas. To protect her, Ranma lifts Akane and jumps to safety, effortlessly carrying Ryouga's heavy umbrella. The two are briefly shy due to their closeness.

When Ryouga attacks again, Akane confronts Ranma about his behavior and expresses her concern for him. Ranma acknowledges his mistake and tries to apologize, but Akane, hurt by his actions, decides to distance herself from him. Suddenly, a belt thrown by Ryouga slices through the air, cutting off Akane's long hair and ending the episode on a dramatic cliffhanger.