As we've discussed in other articles about the current Nine Pillars, we also believe it's important to mention those who once held this position. Although they ceased to be so for various reasons, whether through retirement or death, they have been no less important. These individuals, although no longer part of the Nine Pillars, achieved this prestigious title and were part of this elite in their time.
With stories marked by tragedy, sacrifice, and overcoming, they left an indelible mark on the fight against demons, and we couldn't forget them.
Next, we introduce you to the former Pilares.
Kanae Kocho – Former Flower Pillar
Kanae stood out for her kind and affable nature, being one of the few hunters who managed to maintain her emotional stability despite the hardship of her work.
He had an idealistic dream: a world where humans and demons could coexist in peace.
Shinobu and Kanao's older sister, she was a protective figure for both of them, caring for and training them, transmitting her knowledge and values to them.
She was an exceptionally talented and powerful swordswoman, who, unlike her sister Shinobu, could decapitate demons thanks to her strength and stature.
As a Pillar of the Demon Slaying Corps, his mastery of the "Flower Breathing" technique allowed him to confront the Second Upper Moon, Douma. Though he succumbed in battle, he held on until dawn, once again proving his unwavering talent and determination.
Her death was a tragedy that deeply affected her sisters, especially Shinobu, who took up her legacy and swore to avenge her.
Sakonji Urokodaki – Former Water Pillar
Known for his signature tengu mask, which he never removes, Sakonji was the creator of the "Water Breathing" style.
During his years as a Pillar, he was a highly respected Hunter. After retiring, he settled on Mount Sagiri, where he began teaching his technique to future Hunters. However, after losing several of his apprentices in the Final Selection, he decided to stop training, at least until a former disciple, Giyu Tomioka, asked him to teach Tanjiro Kamado. He eventually agreed.
Despite his stern appearance and strict coaching, Sakonji is compassionate and protective. He showed his human side by caring for Nezuko while Tanjiro was going through tough training, as well as during his participation in the Final Selection, thus offering his support. It could be said that Sakonji was the starting point in Tanjiro's journey as a hunter.
His legacy lives on through the techniques he taught, which are fundamental to many of today's top hunters.
Jigoro Kuwajima – Former Pillar of Lightning
Jigoro was an extremely talented and powerful swordsman, a master of Lightning Breathing, and a former Pillar known for his wisdom, knowledge, and dedication. Although he had to retire due to his advanced age and injuries, he never lost his passion for training the next generation of hunters.
He was a strong and experienced mentor, but he had a weak point: his paternal love for his disciples, a fact that did not prevent him from imposing strict training.
Among his apprentices are Zenitsu Agatsuma and Kaigaku. The latter, however, betrayed the Demon Slaying Corps by joining the Twelve Demon Moons. Kaigaku's defection was a devastating blow to Jigoro, who, consumed by regret, decided to commit seppuku as a sign of atonement for failing to guide his student down the right path.
Through Zenitsu, his legacy lives on. Zenitsu took his teachings to the limit and fought bravely in honor of Jigoro, proving that his teacher was a father figure who never stopped believing in his students' potential.
The legacies, values, and teachings of these former Pillars live on in the hunters who succeeded them.
