Demon Slayer # 1 Seventh Printing 2021 NM-

Demon Slayer # 1 Chapter title: "Cruelty" is the first installment of the manga by Koyoharu Gotouge, originally released in 2016. It establishes the dark fantasy premise of the series, following a young boy's tragic introduction to the world of demons. 

Set in Taisho-era Japan, the story centers on Tanjiro Kamado, a compassionate teenager who supports his family by selling charcoal. 

• The Tragedy: After staying overnight in town to avoid demons rumored to prowl at night, Tanjiro returns home to find his entire family slaughtered.
• The Sole Survivor: His younger sister, Nezuko, is the only survivor, but she has been transformed into a demon. Unlike other demons, Nezuko retains a spark of human emotion and protects her brother instead of attacking him.
• The Encounter: A powerful warrior named Giyu Tomioka (the Water Hashira) appears to execute Nezuko. Witnessing their unique bond, Giyu decides to spare her and directs Tanjiro to seek out a trainer named Sakonji Urokodaki.
• The Resolve: The issue concludes with Tanjiro vowing to become a Demon Slayer to avenge his family and find a way to restore Nezuko’s humanity. 

• Tanjiro Kamado: Known for his incredibly keen sense of smell and empathetic nature.
• Nezuko Kamado: A demon who refuses to eat humans and instead sleeps to recover her strength.
• Giyu Tomioka: The first member of the Demon Slayer Corps introduced, representing the high standard of skill in the organization.
• Muzan Kibutsuji: Though not seen in the first chapter, he is established as the progenitor of all demons and the primary antagonist responsible for the massacre. 

In 2025, this story remains a cornerstone of the franchise, which has since expanded into multiple anime seasons and a record-breaking theatrical trilogy, including the Infinity Castle films released in July 2025.