Time flies, and it always slips away unnoticed.
As the final moments approached, the atmosphere within the Demon Slayer Corps became increasingly tense. Even those who weren't privy to the details could sense the impending storm.
Although Roa had been training the Hashiras, one week wasn't enough to bring about significant changes. While there had been some progress, the time was still too short.
On the day before the scheduled battle with Muzan Kibutsuji, everyone gathered early to discuss how to handle the upcoming final battle.
Roa cleared his throat and stepped forward, adopting the demeanor of a leader. He addressed the group, "Tomorrow is the final battle. I won't say much, but everyone, do your best. I've seen your efforts over the past few days, and I'm looking forward to the battle tomorrow."
Then, as if remembering something, Roa glanced around at the Hashiras and said, "I'll handle Muzan Kibutsuji. You'll most likely have to deal with the three Upper Moons."
At this, everyone turned their attention to Roa. However, the authority Roa had built up over the past few days prevented anyone from questioning him. They simply looked at him in silence.
In recent days, the Hashiras had been thoroughly defeated by Roa. The extent of their improvement was directly proportional to how badly they had been beaten.
Roa nodded and didn't waste any more words, stating bluntly, "Only I can cut off Muzan Kibutsuji's head. This isn't a lack of trust in you, but the fact is, none of you can keep up with my speed."
Roa paused, noticing that everyone remained silent and that there was no sudden provocation like during the previous Hashira Meeting. Satisfied, he nodded.
Roa continued, "But even cutting off his head won't be enough. Muzan Kibutsuji's strength isn't limited to combat—he's also adept at escaping."
Roa walked in front of the group, circling around them as he spoke, "Three hundred years ago, there was a swordsman whose strength was terrifying. Even at the age of eighty, with a frail body, he could still deliver a strike at his peak. The current Upper Moon One was nearly killed by that single strike."
The Hashiras exchanged glances. Mitsuri Kanroji, who was standing in the group, looked up and noticed that everyone was silent. She couldn't help but ask, "If that's the case, wouldn't it be better for all of us to face Muzan Kibutsuji together? There's strength in numbers."
Roa shook his head and said, "It won't work. Facing Muzan Kibutsuji isn't something where numbers can create an advantage. If Muzan Kibutsuji becomes alert, he'll definitely escape, just like he did three hundred years ago when he turned into seven hundred pieces of flesh and fled."
The Hashiras were slightly stunned by this, and Mitsuri Kanroji's mouth fell open in shock, "Seven hundred pieces?"
Roa was quite pleased with his wife's reaction. Through their back-and-forth, they successfully recounted the battle between Yoriichi Tsugikuni and Muzan Kibutsuji. By now, everyone was frowning deeply.
The Sound Hashira stepped forward and asked seriously, "Magnificent youth, are you really up to it?"
The Sound Hashira was naturally asking if Roa could really handle Muzan Kibutsuji alone.
Roa chuckled and shook his head, "You've seen my battles over the past few days. Can any of you keep up with my speed? Compared to the Demon King, the Upper Moons are still your responsibility. Don't think that just because I easily killed three Upper Moons, they're easy opponents."
The Sound Hashira fell silent for a moment, then nodded and stepped back into the group.
Seeing the varied expressions on everyone's faces, Roa thought they might be feeling a bit of dissatisfaction, so he continued, "Of course, after dealing with the Upper Moons, you can come and support me. In any case, we all need to help each other. Well, that's all for now. Meeting adjourned."
Although Roa said the meeting was over, no one actually moved to leave.
Everyone exchanged glances, seeing the fervent determination in each other's eyes.
The final battle was imminent, and tomorrow would be the last fight against Muzan Kibutsuji.
That morning, the entire Demon Slayer Corps was in a state of tension and excitement.
Most of those who joined the Demon Slayer Corps did so because their wives, children, or parents had been brutally killed by demons, and they vowed to exterminate all demons.
Now that their long-cherished wish was about to be fulfilled, who wouldn't be excited?
After a day of rest, Roa took out his newly acquired Nichirin Sword. He now carried two Nichirin Swords at his waist. Drawing the new sword, he activated the Sun Breathing technique. As he exhaled, a thick mist formed, and his right arm exerted force, causing his body temperature to rise. The temperature around him also began to increase.
The Nichirin Sword in his hand gradually changed color, eventually becoming a new Crimson Red Sword.
"Hmm," Roa looked at the Crimson Red Sword and fell into thought.
It seemed that the Crimson Red Sword wouldn't revert to its original state over time, at least not in the short term. Should he give the Demon Slayer Corps members a buff before leaving?
After some consideration, Roa thought it was a good idea.
Although the Crimson Red Sword didn't significantly increase strength, it was much more effective against demons.
During lunch, Roa casually teased Mitsuri Kanroji and said to Kie Kamado, "Soon, after this battle is over, you can go back home. There won't be so many things to deal with anymore."
Kie Kamado nodded, her right hand playing with the child. She smiled at Roa and said, "Yes, thank you for your help."
Roa waved his hand and turned to Tanjiro Kamado, "Kid, stay behind the Hashiras. Don't try to act alone. If things get tough, stay behind Mitsuri Kanroji."
Because of Roa, Mitsuri Kanroji had been hanging around with him recently, eating and drinking. Although her appetite was large, she was always warmly welcomed by the Kamado family.
Hearing Roa's words, Mitsuri Kanroji looked up and nodded seriously, saying to Tanjiro Kamado, "During the battle, stay behind me, okay? I'll protect you."
Mitsuri Kanroji loved taking care of children, and Tanjiro Kamado naturally fell into that category in her eyes.
Both were passionate and sincere people, so they got along quite well.
Tanjiro Kamado nodded shyly, then said earnestly, "I'll do my best not to hold everyone back and try to help."
To be honest, if something unexpected happened, Tanjiro Kamado might unleash his protagonist's talent and go into a rage mode.
Bringing Tanjiro Kamado along was like bringing half a Hashira, even if his stamina was a bit low.
The day before the final battle was just like any other day, not particularly special because of the impending battle.
The summer breeze blew through the wisteria flowers, scattering purple petals on the ground.
After lunch, Roa held Mitsuri Kanroji and sat in the courtyard, watching the rolling white clouds outside. He sighed, "I hope everything can end tomorrow."
Mitsuri Kanroji was no longer as shy as before, and her face didn't flush as easily. This made Roa feel a bit regretful.
The wicker chair was comfortable, and holding a cute girl in his arms made it even more so. It was a unique experience. Mitsuri Kanroji leaned her face closer and suddenly said seriously, "Don't come back missing an arm or a leg."
Roa chuckled and shook his head, pointing at himself, "Don't you trust my strength? Don't worry, even if it's for you, I'll do my best."
The softness in his arms, the chirping birds in the distance, and the blooming wisteria flowers inside and outside the house.
Feeling the tranquility of the moment, Roa even felt like he had entered a retired elderly life.
…
The next day, Roa woke up early. The Hashiras were already prepared, and the entire Demon Slayer Corps had gathered. Everyone's face was filled with excitement and tension.
Roa nodded to everyone, exchanged greetings, and then headed towards the courtyard where Kagaya Ubuyashiki was. Although he was the strongest fighter in the Demon Slayer Corps, he was still a worker, and the command had to come from Kagaya Ubuyashiki.
Kagaya Ubuyashiki's commanding ability was unquestionable, and it was certainly better than Roa's.
Kagaya Ubuyashiki stood in the courtyard, dressed neatly. On this day, he seemed more spirited than usual.
Kagaya Ubuyashiki looked around and said, "Then, I'll assign the tasks first. Upper Moon Two will be handled by the Stone Hashira, Wind Hashira, and Flame Hashira."
Then, Kagaya Ubuyashiki's gaze fell on Gyomei Himejima, Sanemi Shinazugawa, and Kyojuro Rengoku.
The three nodded and acknowledged the assignment.
Next, Kagaya Ubuyashiki looked at Giyu Tomioka, Shinobu Kocho, and Obanai Iguro, saying, "Upper Moon Four will be your responsibility."
The three nodded.
Kagaya Ubuyashiki coughed slightly and continued, "That leaves only Upper Moon Six."
Roa suddenly spoke up, "There's not just Upper Moon Six. There's also a special demon named Nakime, whose ability is unique—she can manipulate the terrain of the Infinity Castle."
At this, everyone's attention turned to Roa. No one asked how Roa knew this, but his words provided valuable information.
Kagaya Ubuyashiki frowned slightly, his handsome face showing a thoughtful expression. He asked, "Nakime?" Then, he curiously inquired, "Roa, how much do you know about her?"
Roa thought for a moment and said to Kagaya Ubuyashiki, "Not only can Nakime manipulate the Infinity Castle, but Muzan Kibutsuji can also control it. You might not know what the Infinity Castle is—it's essentially a different dimension. The entire Infinity Castle revolves around Nakime, twisting in a way that makes it hard to distinguish up, down, left, or right. The map is vast."
Kagaya Ubuyashiki nodded and murmured, "Is that so? Then, Muichiro Tokito and Tengen Uzui, she'll be your responsibility."
Muichiro Tokito gave a faint "Hmm" and didn't say more. Kagaya Ubuyashiki was already familiar with his temperament and continued, "Then, Upper Moon Six will be handled by you, the newly promoted Love Hashira—Mitsuri Kanroji, Shinobu Kocho, Giyu Tomioka, and Tanjiro Kamado."
This team was somewhat overpowered. If the original Hashiras had charged in headfirst, they would have paid a heavy price to defeat the enemy.
However, because Roa had eliminated almost half of the top-tier enemies, the chances of victory had significantly increased. Even Roa, who knew the original story, felt that this was somewhat overkill.
Kagaya Ubuyashiki paused and continued, "Of course, after dealing with the Upper Moons, the Hashiras should quickly support each other."
Everyone present nodded in unison. They were all comrades, and there was no need for further explanation—they would help each other as much as possible.
Kagaya Ubuyashiki's gaze fell on Roa, who stood at the center, and he nodded, "Then, Muzan Kibutsuji will be your responsibility, Roa."
The early morning sunlight shone on Roa's figure, his golden hair swaying in the wind. The light golden haori draped over his shoulders, and his golden-red eyes resembled flowing lava.
Roa simply stood there, exuding an aura that made everyone feel deeply convinced.
Roa said calmly, "Naturally."
Kagaya Ubuyashiki nodded, gently picking up a wisteria petal. He said to everyone, "In that case, let's prepare to depart."
The group then set off in a grand procession towards the location of the Infinity Castle.
Kagaya Ubuyashiki's health wasn't great, but compared to the original story, he could still walk normally.
Some people were against Kagaya Ubuyashiki following the main group to the Infinity Castle.
For example, Kyojuro Rengoku stepped forward, wanting to stop Kagaya Ubuyashiki from joining the main group.
Kyojuro Rengoku said to Kagaya Ubuyashiki, "Master, as the core of the team, I think it's better for you to stay at home."
Kagaya Ubuyashiki shook his head and said, "Although I am your master, I am also a member of the Demon Slayer Corps. At a time like this, when everyone is heading to the battlefield, how can I hide in the rear?"
Kagaya Ubuyashiki's words were reasonable and left no room for argument, at least not for Kyojuro Rengoku. With a simple sentence, he silenced all of Kyojuro's objections.
Rengoku Kyoujurou truly did not wish for Mitsuri Kanroji to go to Infinity Castle, as the unstable factors there were too great. Who knew if there would be other demons lying in ambush nearby? The Hashira were fighting within Infinity Castle, and if something went wrong, they would be unable to provide timely support.
However, looking at Mitsuri Kanroji's determined gaze, Rengoku Kyoujurou knew that no matter how much he tried to persuade her, he could not change her mind.
He could only sigh, nodding to everyone and saying, "If we lack strength, let's go."
The location of Infinity Castle was not too far away, but even so, they only arrived in the afternoon.
Mitsuri Kanroji stood at the entrance, beginning to direct the team members in their arrangements.
Roa then called the Hashira over and said to everyone, "Give me your Nichirin swords."
While others were still hesitating, Mitsuri Kanroji was the first to hand her Nichirin sword to Roa.
Roa smiled at Mitsuri Kanroji, nodding and saying, "There is a technique called the Kakutō. The Kakutō can deal great damage to demons; even Upper Moons would take time to recover from severed parts. Now, I will activate the Kakutō for everyone."
After saying this, Roa's right hand, which held the sword, bulged with veins as the Breath of the Sun began to circulate, and the temperature around them started to rise rapidly.
Then, to everyone's astonishment, Mitsuri Kanroji's specially made Nichirin sword began to change.
The originally pink sword gradually turned red, eventually forming a bright crimson color. Once the sword was fully formed, Roa returned the Nichirin sword to Mitsuri Kanroji, smiling and saying, "It might not look very good, but it is indeed very practical. Use it for now."
Mitsuri Kanroji nodded, taking the Kakutō from Roa's hand. The moment she held it, she felt a slight surprise; even with the hilt, she could feel the intense heat radiating from the Nichirin sword.
Next was Rengoku Kyoujurou, who promptly drew the Nichirin sword from his waist and handed it to Roa.
Roa began to enchant each sword one by one. Once everyone had their newly acquired Kakutō, he nodded to them and said, "This will do."
Everyone showed curiosity about their new toys.
Without further ado, since Infinity Castle was an alternate space, a city belonging to demons, even during the day, sunlight could not penetrate.
Noticing the arrival of the group, there was no need for small talk; he instantly pulled everyone into Infinity Castle.
Accompanied by spatial fluctuations, the view above and below inverted, and the entire room began to shake violently. By the time Roa realized what was happening, the people around him had already vanished.
However, Roa was not concerned. This time, only nine Hashira and Tanjiro Kamadou had come. Even if they got separated for a moment, they would not be easily defeated. Although Infinity Castle involved spatial manipulation, it was not as formidable as imagined. The one controlling this house, Muzan Kibutsuji, could only manipulate the internal changes of Infinity Castle. While this posed some trouble for Hashira-level swordsmen, it was merely a hassle.
Roa began to walk forward slowly.
This space gave Roa a very subtle feeling, a sense of discomfort.
But thinking about it, this was the demon's lair, so it was not surprising to feel this way.
However, as he walked forward, Roa increasingly felt that something was off.
Roa tightly gripped the Nichirin sword at his waist, raising his gaze to look down the path.
At that moment, a figure was sitting atop a massive structure resembling a cliff.
Roa's pupils suddenly constricted.