Ep 22. Gather, Young Men! The New Shinpaku Alliance!

Kenichi season 1, episode 22, titled "Gather, Young Men! The New Shinpaku Alliance!" is a pivotal episode in the series. The main character, Kenichi, is a high school student who has recently joined a dojo to learn martial arts. He is the target of several powerful fighters who are members of rival dojos and gangs, and in this episode, he begins to assemble his own team of fighters to protect himself and his friends.

The episode begins with Kenichi and his friend Haruo discussing their plans to form a new alliance of fighters to counter the threats they face. They approach a classmate, a burly but gentle giant named Taichi, who agrees to join them. They then visit a hot-blooded fighter named Miu, who also signs on to the new group. Together, the four of them set out to recruit more members.

Kenichi and his crew seek out a reclusive fighter named Kugatachi, who is notorious for his aggressive and unpredictable style. They find him living in a remote cabin in the woods, where he practices martial arts alone. Kugatachi initially resists their offer to join the Shinpaku Alliance, but after a challenge from Kenichi, he agrees to compete in a sparring match to test their skills.

The match is intense, with Kugatachi displaying his brutal fighting style and Kenichi struggling to keep up. In the end, however, Kenichi is able to gain the upper hand, and Kugatachi agrees to join the alliance.

Next, Kenichi and his team encounter a group of skilled fighters led by a man named Kisara, who challenges them to a fight. Kenichi and his crew are outnumbered, but they manage to hold their ground and defeat the opposing team. Kisara, impressed by their skills, agrees to join the Shinpaku Alliance.

Finally, Kenichi and his crew seek out a young fighter named Ikki, who is known for his agility and speed. They find him training in a park, where he is being bullied by a group of older fighters. Kenichi and his team intervene and defeat the bullies, and Ikki agrees to join the alliance.

With their ranks now swelled to seven members, Kenichi and his crew prepare for their next battle. The episode ends with the formation of the Shinpaku Alliance, a diverse group of fighters who are determined to protect their friends and honor through the martial arts.

Overall, "Gather, Young Men! The New Shinpaku Alliance!" is a fast-paced and action-packed episode that marks a turning point in the series. It sets the stage for future conflicts and alliances, and showcases the talents of several memorable characters. Fans of martial arts anime will find plenty to enjoy in this episode, and will be left eagerly anticipating what comes next for the Shinpaku Alliance.