Original subtitles

In the next five days Muzan will come...

Use me as bait and cut off Muzan's head...

What makes you think that?

Just my intuition. That's all.

No other reason.

The other children won't agree...

to use me as bait...

You're the only one that I can ask, Gyomei.

That man may not die if you cut off his neck.

Most likely, the only thing that can destroy Muzan is sunlight.

Meaning if he doesn't die even after you've destroyed his head...

You'll be in for a drawn-out battle until the sun rises.

Understood.

If that is your wish, Master.

Thank you.

Please...

Don't let any more of my precious children die.

So, you think you've driven me into a corner?

You're all about to go straight to Hell!

You eyesore Demon Slayers!

Tonight, I'm going to massacre every one of you!

You're the one who's going to Hell, Muzan!

You're not getting away!

Do it, then!

Let's see you try, Kamado Tanjiro!

I'll absolutely defeat you, Kibutsuji Muzan!

What is this place?

I can't tell my left from my right!

Is this the work of a Blood Demon Art?

I'm not sure what's going on, but Tamayo-san was holding Muzan in place.

I don't know how long she can keep that up, though.

Calm down, Kanroji!

Okay.

Stay close.

I've gotta find Muzan and take him down!

I have to hurry!

Right there!

If I crash into the ground, I'll die!

I need to use a technique to change my trajectory!

My positioning is too off!

You okay?

Yeah, thank you!

You sav—

Water Breathing, First Form:

Water Surface Slash!

Tanjiro!

Water Breathing,

Sixth Form:

Third Form:

Whirlpool!

Flowing Dance!

Giyu-san is incredible...

He was able to tell what technique I was gonna use.

Then he made sure to use an attack that wouldn't interfere with mine.

It's freaky!

What's up with his face?

This is probably the demon hideout that Shinazugawa and Iguro mentioned.

So why do you think that Kibutsuji brought all of the Hashira and the other slayers here?

From now on, we'll have to constantly stay on guard.

Right.

Let's go.

Right.

Serpent Breathing, Fifth Form:

Slithering Serpent!

Stay away from Kanroji, you scum!

Iguro-san's so cool!

Are you hurt?

Nope!

Let's go.

Okay!

Tokito!

There's a lot of demons here, huh?

They must all be here to try to wear us down.

What happened to the Master?

He's awaiting us in the afterlife.

It was a magnificent end.

I can't imagine him making the mistake of letting a demon find him.

Was it bait?

That's right.

He knew his days were already numbered.

Master...

The first time I encountered a demon, I was left on the verge of death.

He never left my side.

He's done the same for countless others, too.

Like a father...

Yeah, he did.

Muzan's taken not only my brother, but also my second father.

Damn you!

Muzan, I'll make you suffer before I send you to Hell!

Don't worry.

We all feel the same way.

Master, I've failed...

Keep coming, one after the other...

Bring it on.

I'll slaughter every one of you!

Comin' through!

I dunno how I ended up here...

But since demons keep on showin' up...

It's the perfect time to test out all that training!

What is this place?

A demon fortress?

Where are the others?

Brother...

Please be safe!

I hear something, that guy must be nearby.

I can't believe it.

I'll never forgive you for what you did!

I smell blood.

Where am I?

Someone's arrived.

Whoa! It's a girl, too!

You look beautiful and delicious!

I'll have to thank Nakime-chan later.

Shinobu

Please leave the Demon Slayer Corps.

You're always pushing yourself so hard, you're really trying.

But, Shinobu...

I just want you to live a happy life.

I want you to live to be an old woman.

For me, that's enough...

No!

I'd never just give up! I'll avenge you!

Tell me, what did the demon that did this look like?

Tell me sis, please!

How could I ever live a happy life after someone did this to you?

It was a demon who looked like blood was spilled on his head.

Hey there, it's very nice to meet you!

My name is Doma.

It's a nice night, isn't it?

He spoke calmly and wouldn't stop grinning.

H-H-Help...

Help me!

Shhh!

I'm talking right now.

Are you okay?

Whoa! You're fast!

Are you a Hashira?

It's fine, just leave her there!

I'll make sure she doesn't go to waste!

The weapon that demon used were a pair of sharp fans.

I'm the founder of the Eternal Paradise Faith.

It's my duty to ensure my disciples are happy.

So I'll devour her, leaving nothing behind.

This is the demon who killed my sister.

Make sure they're happy?

Don't make me laugh.

This girl was just screaming for help.

And I helped her, didn't I?

She's no longer feeling any pain.

Nor is she suffering nor afraid.

Everyone is afraid of death.

That's why I eat them all.

That way they get to live on forever inside of me.

I take in all of my disciples' feelings, blood, and flesh.

All so they can be rescued and guided to paradise.

You're insane.

Are you okay in the head?

You really make me sick.

We've only just met, why are you being so harsh?

Oh, I know!

How sad...

Something must really be bothering you.

I'm here to listen, feel free to tell me!

Something must be bothering me?

You killed my sister!

Don't you recognize this haori?

You mean that Flower Breathing swordswoman?

She was such a kind girl.

I remember not getting to finish eating her because the sun was rising.

But wanted to gobble her...

Insect Breathing, Dance of the Bumblebee:

Sting!

What an incredible thrust!

I couldn't stop it in time!

Blood Demon Art:

Frozen Lotus!

So cold!

It feels like my lungs might freeze!

You really are fast!

But it's no use.

You can't kill demons by stabbing their eyes.

The neck...

You need to sever the neck.

Stabbing might not kill you, but what about poison?

I wonder if this poison is strong enough to kill an Upper Rank.

Sister...

Please, sister...

This is a lot stronger than the poison you used on Rui-kun's mountain...

So they do share information.

Poison is a double-edged sword.

I was told to look out for a mixture that could adapt to any demon.

Seems like I was able to break down your poison.

I'm sorry! You probably worked very hard on it.

That sword makes a very unique sound when you sheathe it.

Is that when you change the compound?

Whoa! This is fun!

I kinda like being poisoned!

Hey, do you think the next one will work?

Let's try it!

Is that so?

Fine with me.

After all...

I've anticipated everything so far!

Is the mixture ready?

It's okay to come at me anytime.

I said let's try it...

But it's boring if you just use the same technique.

That's slower than before.

Insect Breathing, Dance of the Bumblebee:

Complete Flutter!

What's this? I've already built a resistance.

That way you parried my attack...

It was amazing, it was like the collected output of all your effort!

Keep 'em coming, you don't have to wait for me to decompose the poison!

I love supporting people who are trying their best!

Yes! Just like that!

I've been kind and clever ever since I was a kid.

I've always tried my best to help people in need and make them happy.

Because that's my duty.

This child's eyes have rainbows.

Pale hair is a sign of innocence.

This child is special.

I'm sure he can hear the voice of God.

My parents were unbelievably stupid.

They even went out of their way to create the Eternal Paradise Faith.

I felt so sorry for them.

That's the only reason I played along.

Not once did I ever hear the voice of God.

At first, I found it awkward to have people pray to me.

These adults were crying to a child about their miseries, begging for advice.

I began to wonder if they were all just crazy.

After I yawned through their boring life stories...

They'd bow their heads and beg me to lead them to paradise.

It made me cry.

How sad...

This "paradise" doesn't exist.

It's just a made up delusion born from human imagination.

Gods do not exist.

It's so simple, yet these people who've lived for decades have no idea.

Once you die, there's nothing.

You just stop feeling.

Your heart stops...

Your brain stops...

And your body rots.

It's unavoidable for all living creatures.

They simply could not accept that reality.

It must be hard being so stupid.

I wanted to help these pitiful people find their happiness.

That must be the reason why I was born.

Seems like number five didn't work either.

They're getting less and less effective.

How many more do you think you can make?

Oh, you're losing your breath!

Your sweating an awful lot.

Are you okay?

This is the strength of an Upper Rank.

My poison isn't working at all.

It's stupid how quickly he builds a resistance.

Your lungs are giving out, right?

After all, you did breathe in my Blood Demon Art.

He turned his blood into frozen mist and scattered it with those fans.

It's too dangerous to even breathe.

I'll hit him with multiple doses all at once!

Insect Breathing, Dance of the Dragonfly:

Compound Eye Hexagon!

No, you actually are fast!

Maybe the fastest Hashira I've ever met.

Why won't...

You should've at least tried cutting my neck.

With that speed, you probably could've done it.

Maybe not, you're really tiny after all.

Why are my hands so tiny?

Why did I never grow any taller?

If my body was just a bit bigger...

I might've been able to defeat this demon.

The bigger your arms and legs are, the more muscles they can hold...

It's a huge advantage...

Despite being taller than me, my sister was just as delicate.

I envy Himejima-san.

Once he shows up, everyone knows they can take it easy.

I know what my sister was trying to say...

Are you done already?

It can't be helped...

"You'll probably just end up dying too."

She started to say it, but stopped...

Pull yourself together.

Don't cry over this.

Sister...

Stand up.

I can't!

I've lost so much blood and my lungs are ripped to shreds.

That doesn't matter.

Stand up, Insect Hashira, Kocho Shinobu.

When you decide to defeat a demon, you defeat it.

When you decide to win, you win.

No matter the cost.

Didn't you promise me and Kanao?

Kanao...

I'm sorry.

You must be in a lot of pain.

Shinobu, you can do this.

Good luck.

Can you actually still stand?

Are you sure you're human?

Your collarbone, lungs, and ribs must all be smashed.

For your size, I'm surprised you're not already dead from the blood loss.

Ew, see!

The blood building up in your lungs is making that awful gurgling sound!

I'll kill you now so that you don't have to suffer anymore.

You're beyond saving, just give up!

If I'm gonna do this, it has to be the neck.

If I inject enough poison into his neck, I can win!

Insect Breathing,

Dance of the Centipede:

Hundred-Legged Zigzag!

She's weaving around in every direction.

And with so much force, she broke the bridge.

Too fast! I can't read her attack!

Below!

I once believed that the road of happiness continued forever into the distance.

But I realized...

Once it was destroyed...

That happiness rests upon a thin layer of glass.

And...

Just as we were saved...

There are others whose happiness hasn't been destroyed yet.

I wanted to get stronger, to protect them.

That was our promise.

"Let's defeat as many demons as we can, both of us."

"We can't let anyone else go through what we just experienced."

Even if I'm weak...

Even if I can't cut a demon's neck...

If I can defeat one demon, I can save dozens of lives.

If I can defeat an Upper Rank, I can save hundreds.

It's not about whether I can or can't, there are some things that must be done.

Are you angry?

Yes, I am angry, Tanjiro-kun.

For a very long time now, I've been angry.

My parents were killed.

My sister was killed.

Other than Kanao, all of my Tsuguko were killed.

And those girls...

If demons hadn't killed their families, they'd be living happily with them right now.

It drives me crazy!

Oh come the hell on!

Why won't my poison work on this guy?

It's so stupid!

That was great! You tried so hard!

I'm so moved! I never expected you to be so impressive!

You didn't have your sister's strength, but you tried your best anyway!

It's honestly a miracle you were able to do this much!

Despite knowing it was useless, you still tried to take me down!

This foolishness is what makes humans so weak, yet so beautiful!

You are certainly worthy of being eaten by me.

Let's live together for eternity!

If you have any last words, I'll pass them on for you.

Go to Hell!

Master!

I'm sure that guy is around here somewhere.

He's probably looking for me, too.

Everyone assumes the people they care about will be around forever.

But that's nothing more than a flimsy desire.

Flower Breathing,

Nobody promised that it's an absolute certainty.

Fourth Form:

Crimson Hanagoromo!

That was close.

But for some reason...

People still believe it to be true.

Please don't try to slash me while I'm absorbing someone.

Oh?

You're not falling for my taunts?

Did she signal something to you with her fingers?

Did she tell you about my powers?

She only had a brief moment, that's impressive.

She never gave up, despite the futility.

Anyway, tonight is my lucky night.

Gorgeous feasts are showing up one after the other.

It really is a nice night.

I know you're there.

Come out, already.

Stop wasting my time.

That's no way to speak to your superior.

You might've gotten a bit stronger since the last time I saw you...

But you're still as shabby as ever.

UPPER SIX

Long time no see, Zenitsu.

Kaigaku...

Now that you've become a demon, I no longer acknowledge you as my senior.

Water Breathing, Ninth Form:

Splashing Water Flow, Turbulent!

Stay sharp!

Right!

This world is dangerous, it moves as if its alive.

It keeps trying to separate me from Giyu-san.

We have to join up with the others and find Muzan.

Deceased! Kocho Shinobu has died!

She died fighting against Upper Two!

What is that crow wearing around its neck?

That message came unusually fast.

Shinobu is dead.

Don't stop your hands.

We need as much information as possible.

Okay.

Are the other Hashira still alive? What's the situation with the rest of my Demon Slayers?

Four platforms away, twelve vertically.

There's a battle on the center platform.

Over 10 demons currently.

And there are over 30 more approaching.

Yushiro-san's "eyes" can perceive Blood Demon Art.

He can see techniques invisible to the human eye.

Each light resembles an instance of a demon's Blood Demon Art.

The pulsing ones are the techniques themselves.

This place stretches forever.

What kind of power...

This is an infinite demon castle.

And we were lured straight into it.

But we weren't just lured in.

My father made careful preparations for a day like this.

He planned for Gyomei to regroup with the other Hashira.

And gave assigned roles to the other Demon Slayers prepare by Kasugai Crow.

With the help of Tamayo-san, Yushiro-san...

And the sacrifices of my sisters and parents.

We won't lose this battle.

Five massive powers radiate through this area as if asserting their dominance.

No doubt these are the Upper Ranks.

One of them marks the place Shinobu died.

Upper Rank! Upper Six and Agatsuma have just encountered each other!

Another Upper Rank? What's the situation?

Not good, Agatsuma is completely alone.

Send as many people as you can to that Upper Rank's location.

Quickly!

You haven't changed a bit.

Still just a shabby little runt.

Aren't you?

Have you become a Hashira?

Come on, Zenitsu.

Have you learned anything besides the first form?

You're awfully cocky, seeing as you're the lowest of the Upper Ranks.

I see you've learned to talk back, at least.

Why did you become a demon?

You have no—

Why would a successor of Thunder Breathing become a demon?

If you hadn't become a demon...

Gramps...

Wouldn't have killed himself!

Gramps...

Slit his stomach open, alone!

There was nobody to behead him!

When you slit your stomach...

If someone's not there to cut your head off...

You'll die a slow, agonizing death!

Gramps...

He could've slit his throat or stabbed his heart instead!

All because the line of Thunder Breathing had produced a demon!

That's not my problem.

So, what? Are you saying I should repent?

I have no respect for anyone who doesn't value me properly.

I will only ever work for those who know my value!

I'm relieved that old man died a painful death.

I worked so hard but he refused to make me his sole successor.

That old bastard told me to work alongside dirt like you to share the successorship!

He may have been a Hashira, but he was senile in his later years for sure.

Gramps wasn't senile.

If I'm dirt, then you're trash.

I might only be able to use the first form, but you can't.

Maybe Gramps died a miserable death because he had such pathetic successors!

Don't lump me in with you!

Thunder Breathing, Fourth Form:

Distant Thunder!

Too slow, trash.

He cut me!

He's fast!

This guy...

It's like he's a completely different person.

I can't believe it.

There's no shame in kneeling before absolute strength.

As long as you live, you can figure something out.

Until you die, you haven't lost.

You can bury your face in the dirt.

You can lose your home.

You can drink mud.

You can get scolded for stealing.

As long as you stay alive, one day you'll win.

I will win.

That belief has carried me this far.

If you become a demon...

You can access greater strength...

If he recognizes you...

Then you will become one of us.

For a strong swordsman...

It will take time to become a demon.

It took me three days.

For someone who uses breathing techniques...

It will require a great amount of his blood.

And in some cases...

There are people whose bodies are incompatible with the transformation.

What about you?

Be grateful for this opportunity.

You mustn't spill a drop.

If you do, your head may very well fall from your shoulders.

In that moment, all of my cells were screaming from fear.

Compared to that...

This punk is absolutely nothing.

He may have gotten stronger, but he's no match for an Upper Rank.

Agatsuma Zenitsu is pathetic.

Always bawling his eyes out with no sense of dignity.

Help! I fell in a hole and sprained my ankle!

And that bastard said we'd have to be successors together.

Here, Kaigaku.

Gramps!

It's a bit big.

Does he see us as equals?

We're not!

Everyone dies at some point!

You and that old man are no exception!

I could only use the first form.

And he could use everything except the first form.

So Gramps...

Wanted us to be joint successors to Thunder Breathing.

When you...

Became a demon, I wanted to deny it.

Thunder Breathing, Second Form:

Rice Spirit!

Five consecutive strikes in the blink of an eye.

You've eaten so many people!

You can't even tell the difference between right and wrong!

Oh, I know the difference!

What's wrong?

You're the old man's favorite, right?

Show me your prized technique, already!

What's wrong? Don't hesitate, just try hit me with it!

Thunder Breathing,

First Form:

Thunderclap and Flash!

A basic straight rush, seriously?

Like I'd fall for that!

Thunder Breathing, Third Form:

Thunder Swarm!

A spinning wave attack!

What's wrong?

Done already?

Thunder Breathing, First Form:

Thunderclap and Flash, Eightfold!

How boring!

Thunder Breathing, Fifth Form:

Heat Lightning!

How do my techniques taste when infused with my Blood Demon Art?

My attacks slash the skin and burn the flesh!

Those who acknowledge my worth and accept me are right.

Those who underestimate my talent and regect me are wrong.

Do you get it? This is my power!

As a demon, I'm unstoppable!

If this is all you can do, you're no proper successor!

So that's your answer?

I knew it...

I knew but...

Zenitsu, this is the end!

Thunder Breathing,

Sixth Form:

Rumble and Flash!

My slashes will continue to crack your body with each blow!

My power will also begin to fry your brain!

By becoming a demon, I've perfected Thunder Breathing!

I am special!

Unlike you!

Unlike any of you!

That old man was wrong, after all.

Learn from Kaigaku's example!

Be more like your senior!

The first form of Thunder Breathing is the foundation for all the others, isn't it?

If he can't even use the first form...

Even if he masters the others, it won't amount to much.

Despite that, Kaigaku still acts all high and mighty.

He'll never become a Hashira.

He'll probably die right away.

What was that for?

You hit someone who outranked you?

Don't go causing problems!

Just having you around is so embarrassing.

I know that you've always hated me.

I hated you just as much.

But deep down, I respected you.

You always had the resolve to work hard.

I was always several steps behind you.

You were special, to me.

Just as special as Gramps was.

But that wasn't enough for you.

You always gave off a dissatisfied sound.

Your box of happiness must have had a hole in it.

Causing it to constantly spill out.

If you never choose to plug that hole, you'll never be satisfied.

Gramps...

I'm sorry.

We went down separate paths.

He still has strength?

What?

I'm sorry, brother.

Thunder Breathing, Seventh Form:

Flaming Thunder God!

I didn't see that coming.

What was that technique?

It was way too fast!

I've never heard of it!

What did you use?

Damn it, I knew that old man favored you!

He only taught you that technique, didn't he?

No.

Gramps wasn't like that.

That was mine.

A form I created on my own.

I hoped, someday...

I would use it alongside you.

A seventh form?

Thunder Breathing only has six forms.

This guy created a seventh?

Him? The guy who can only use the first form?

This dirt who is inferior to me?

It can't be! I refuse to accept it!

I'm about to lose to someone like him?

It's gonna drive me insane!

No.

I'm not gonna lose.

He's going to die from this fall.

He doesn't have any strength left.

This dirt is going to die with me.

Those who choose not to help others shouldn't expect to receive anything in return.

Those who only covet will end up with nothing.

Because they can't make anything themselves.

Dying alone sure is pathetic.

Where am I?

Gramps!

I'm sorry, I couldn't get along with Kaigaku!

You'd constantly send me letters...

But I'd always ignore your requests!

If I wasn't around, Kaigaku probably wouldn't have turned out how he did.

I'm so sorry! Forgive me!

I'm sorry for never repaying my debt!

I just wanted you to see me become a Hashira!

I'm sorry!

Gramps, I'm sorry!

Do you hate me?

Say something, Gramps!

Damn! What are these?

They're tangling around my feet!

Gramps!

I...

I...

Shit!

Zenitsu...

You're everything I could've hoped for.

How is he?

Can he be saved?

I know this guy!

Please do something!

I'm begging you!

Shut up already, Murata.

Make yourself useful and keep an eye out.

Hey, what's your rank?

If it's lower than mine, I won't forgive you!

Well, I'm a demon, so I don't have a rank.

I'm using the demon styptic, but if these cracks don't stop spreading, they'll rip his eyes apart.

Can you hear me?

Don't say such things in front of him!

I don't know what to do if this doesn't stop the bleeding.

Stop it!

You'll be fine for sure! We're gonna save you!

You're not gonna die!

Hang in there Agatsuma!

Just hang in there!

Thankfully that Upper Rank you fought hadn't mastered its techniques.

You've very lucky.

If you fought him a year from now, he would've killed you instantly.

Stop saying such depressing things!

I-I'm not saying anything wrong.

What is it?

Thanks to all that shouting, a demon found us.

Way to go.

Hey, Yushiro, leave this to us.

Get Agatsuma out of here!

Let's go!

Hurry up and kill it already, Senpai.

You'll pay for that later!

Damn!

Water Breathing, Second Form:

Water Wheel!

Flank them!

Go around there!

Oh no!

He's gonna...

No Upper Ranks so far...

Is Muzan still that far away?

Are the others still alive?

Shinobu-san, I swear we'll win!

I'm sure everyone will...

What's this shaking?

Giyu-san!

Stop!

Stay calm!

Is someone fighting?

Is someone else gonna die?

No, something is coming.

This smell...

Above!

Tanjiro, get back!

It's been a while.

I'm surprised a weakling like you is still alive.

Kamado Tanjiro!

Akaza!

Inside of this flesh cocoon, he's probably trying to break down my drug.

Kibutsuji Muzan, you must be destroyed.

But how?

Eventually, he'll absorb me too.

Please somebody, come quick!

Please!

My father's theory was that if Muzan dies, all demons will die.

But Kibutsuji Muzan is still alive.

Muzan's power must be suppressed by Tamayo-san.

Because of that, I can't find him with Yushiro-san's eyes.

We must defeat Muzan before he regains his strength.

But in this infinitely expanding castle...

Can we really find Kibutsuji Muzan?

Don't rush.

You're doing well.

He'll show himself soon enough.

Just like how he came to me.

Kibutsuji Muzan is that kind of man.

Understood, Father.

I'll find and defeat him.

Before the others' strength runs out.

Stand strong!

We'll hold out, minimizing the Hashira's exhaustion.

Go on ahead!

Stone Hashira, hurry.

You guys...

Please, defeat Kibutsuji!

Please!

Understood.

We'll leave this to you.

Tokito!

Now's our chance to show off our Hashira Training!

Thank you, everyone.

Father, everyone's fighting hard.

Don't cry.

You cannot stop your hands.

We cannot afford to lose.

Right.

Kiriya-sama is magnificent.

Despite his anguish over his father's death, he has taken over the Demon Slayer Corps.

He's making sure to fulfill his mission.

Eh, Rengoku-san?

That's right.

Despite their age, these kids are rousing my confidence.

Just as Kyojuro did.

I refuse to bring shame upon the Rengoku family name.

It looks like she's suffering.

As the Master instructed, I gave her the medicine given to me by Tamayo.

I used it as I was told.

But can it really turn Nezuko back into a human?

If Nezuko becomes human again, Muzan's scheme will crumble.

His dream of conquering the Sun that he's pursued for the last 1,000 years will return to square one.

In all that time, the only demon to conquer the Sun is Nezuko.

The words "the final phase" keep crossing my mind.

Every time, my body trembles and my heart beats louder.

This long battle may finally end tonight.

I never believed that I would be alive to witness it.

Tanjiro...

Every since that day you brought your demon sister to me...

It's felt as if a large machine has suddenly sprung to life.

If everything up until this point was represented by a giant piece of equipment...

Then you and Nezuko are the two small cogs...

That caused our stagnant situation to begin moving.

Don't lose, Nezuko.

Don't lose, Tanjiro.

You must not lose.

Hinokami Kagura:

Fire Wheel!

Go, go, go!

If I can't cut his arm, then there's no way I can cut his neck!

I got him.

And I dodged his attack.

This can work, I can fight!

I couldn't aim for his head, but this time...

Hinokami Kagura:

Fake Rainbow!

Tanjiro...

You've really improved your techniques...

It wouldn't be unreasonable to say your abilities rival that of a Hashira.

You're actually able to damage someone like Upper Three.

That day...

All you could do was fall to your knees and bow your head in despair.

Begging me to spare your sister's life.

Now you can fight.

Neither your life nor your dignity can be taken from you.

"This boy isn't weak."

"Don't insult him."

Now I recognize the truth behind Kyojuro's words.

You're not weak.

To show my respect...

Technique Development!

Well, let's get this party started.

It's time to have some fun.

Water Breathing, Third Form:

Flowing Dance!

A Water Hashira, huh?

It's been about 50 years since the last time I fought one!

Destructive Death:

Disorder!

Water Breathing, Eleventh Form:

Dead Calm!

I've never seen that technique before.

The last Water Hashira I killed never used it!

Hinokami Kagura:

Raging Sun!

He's gone!

Behind me!

Hinokami Kagura:

Fak—

Water Breathing, Second Form:

Water Wheel!

Hinokami Kagura:

Dance!

Destructive Death, Leg Type:

Crown Splitter!

I blocked it with my sword!

He only grazed me, but with such force...

So elegant!

Your sword skills are simply wonderful!

Give me your name!

I want to remember you!

I won't give my name to a demon.

And I hate talking, so don't speak to me.

Oh, you hate talking?

Well, I love talking!

I'll just keep asking for your name until you tell me!

Destructive Death, Leg Type:

Explosive Flurry!

Giyu-san!

I see! His name is Giyu?

Hinokami Kagura:

Destructive Death:

Eight-Layered Demon Core!

Burning Bones, Summer Sun!

Nice moves.

You must've trained hard to reach this level so quickly.

I can praise that.

Even so, Kyojuro was something else entirely.

That night, all you could do was lie on the ground looking pathetic.

But look at you now!

Your growth is stunning!

I'm feeling pure joy!

My heart is racing!

I'm glad Kyojuro died that night.

I doubt he had much more room to grow.

All because his stupid values made him want to stay human.

What did you say?

You...

Don't dare to say another word.

Don't talk about Rengoku-san!

Why? I'm praising you guys.

Both you and Kyojuro.

No, you're just casting insults.

All you do is spit in the face of everyone you fight.

You don't understand, Tanjiro.

I only despise the weak.

I only spit in the face of the weak.

Yeah, weaklings make me vomit.

The law of nature dictates that they're to be eradicated.

Everything you're saying is wrong.

The fact that you're here is proof.

Everyone is born weak.

Without someone to take care of them, they can't live.

You were the same, Akaza.

You may not remember, but when you were a baby, someone looked out for you.

That's the only reason you're alive.

The strong exist to protect the weak.

Then the weak grow strong and protect those weaker than themselves.

That is the law of nature!

Akaza, your way of thinking is unforgivable.

I refuse to let you get away with it any longer!

I get it.

By instinct, I just can't accept him.

Even now that he's strong, this feeling isn't going away.

Everybody starts out weak.

Through assistance, they gradually get stronger.

Don't waste time comparing yourself to others.

What you should strive for is becoming a stronger version of yourself than you were yesterday.

If you keep that up for 10 to 20 years, you'll become magnificent.

And then it'll be your turn to assist.

What?

Why'd he swing at that empty space?

Tanjiro, you really are unpleasant.

Destructive Death, Crushing Type:

Ten Thousand Flashing Willow Leaves!

He's incredibly fast!

No, it's not just speed, to be more precise, he's...

Destructive Death, Leg Type:

Flying Planet, Thousand Wheels!

Even if I could somehow predict his moves and block his attacks, I wouldn't get away unscathed.

His techniques feel like they're drawn right to my openings.

It's like there's a magnet pulling his attacks to my vitals.

How? What is he reacting to?

Think back, remember.

There must be something that I can deduce from what he's said or done.

Hinokami Kagura:

Solar Heat Haze!

That's a fun technique!

It looked like your blade got longer.

How'd you do that?

The tip was wavering like heat haze.

How interesting!

Hinokami Kagura:

Dance!

Uh-oh!

It's gonna break!

Nice head-butt!

Let go! Let go! Let go!

No good, he's not letting go!

Giyu-san!

Now I'm angry.

There's a searing pain in my back.

You really sent me flying, Upper Three.

I rarely feel the need to weild my sword to the best of my ability.

And never is it for any sort of entertainment.

But right now, for the first time I'm standing before an opponent who can overwhelm me.

And I realize just how sharply his senses have been honed.

In that moment, I felt something inside of me awaken.

I was being dragged into the same realm my opponent was in.

And I realized how a matter of life and death can push one past their limit.

Giyu-san...

His speed is...

Insane!

Water Breathing, Fourth Form:

Striking Tide!

They're both so fast!

But Akaza immediately adapted to Giyu-san's increased speed.

Is this all you've got?

More! Hit me harder!

Tenth Form:

Constant Flux!

Seventh Form:

Drop Ripple Thrust!

Destructive Death:

Disorder!

Giyu-san!

Akaza!

Calm down!

Think, don't panic.

Never cast aside your thoughts.

Why are Akaza's attacks so accurate in the first place?

How is he able to react to attacks coming from his blind spots?

Think!

Your fighting spirit has been honed to the hilt.

It's close to the realm of the highest.

In his fight with Rengoku-san, Akaza mentioned "fighting spirit."

What is fighting spirit?

Just like how I'm able to sense things by smell, can Akaza sense things by fighting spirit?

It kinda tingles wherever on my body an enemy is looking.

So that's how you were able to react to Gyutaro's attack.

Even though it was from behind.

My skin is stronger than a human's after all!

It doesn't matter if it's from behind! If someone even looks at me I can tell!

Can you show me?

Sure thing!

You're looking at my right shoulder.

Wow, you're right!

If someone looks at me with murderous intent, I'm able to tell immediately!

After all, if something's trying to hurt me, I should know!

It stabs into my skin and makes me sting all over!

That's right

Inosuke's able to sense things that are invisible to the eye.

What else did he say about it?

Back then?

But if someone doesn't have bad intentions, it's freakin' hard to notice them!

Like that damn old hag!

That old hag at the Wisteria House was really freaky.

She'd just appear...

Right behind me with rice balls somehow!

It's impolite to call her "old hag."

Say "old lady."

Old lady hag!

Hey!

So I figure if I can get close to my enemies while hiding my hostility, I'll be unkillable!

But that's probably because she had no intention of harming you at all.

I think it would be impossible to kill a demon without showing any hostility.

I guess that's true.

An attack without any intent behind it wouldn't cut through a demon's neck.

It was a silly conversation but maybe there's something I can take from it.

What is it that Akaza can sense?

Is fighting spirit different from murderous intent?

The will to fight?

How much or how hard you've trained?

Is it similar to how I can predict moves by smell?

Could there be some way to throw off Akaza's Compass Needle?

Hinokami Kagura:

Dance!

Your body's wide open, Tanjiro!

Now!

Fighting spirit...

Magnet...

Compass Needle...

Instinct...

Hostility...

The realm...

Of the highest...

I see!

That's it!

Dad, what do you think about when you perform the Hinokami Kagura?

If it's too hard for you, I can take your place next year.

I'm worried about your health.

Thank you, Tanjiro.

But in all the years that I have performed the kagura, it's never been difficult.

It's quite strange.

When I learned the kagura from your grandfather, I was younger and healthier than I am now.

But I found myself out of breath very fast.

Every Near Year for generations, my family has performed our kagura.

It's a demanding dance that is performed from sunrise to sunset.

There are 12 stages in total.

And by dawn, each stage will have been repeated hundreds of times.

I figured it was because early on, I had a lot of wasted movements.

What's important is to maintain proper control of your breathing.

And to exert the maximum strength possible with as little motion.

If you do that, your mind slowly becomes invisible.

Invisible?

As your learning, you need to etch each movement and sensation into your body.

Utilize your senses to become conscious of you entire body, down to the blood vessels.

This period is the most strenuous.

You might even start thinking that you'll never get any better.

After you've taught your body the motions, remove the pieces that are unnecessary.

Leave only what is absolutely required.

Then close yourself.

Close?

When people try to listen closely, they close their eyes.

Just like that, only focus on what is necessary in the moment.

Given time, you'll learn to close off individual blood vessels.

Becoming able to perform the motions as easily as blinking.

Then you'll see the path enshrined by light.

When your mind becomes invisible, you begin to see the Transparent World.

But this domain can only be reached after you've pushed yourself to the absolute limit.

Can I see it?

Only if you keep working hard.

Here, they're done.

Thanks!

Ten days before my father died...

There was an incident on the other side of the mountain where a bear attacked people.

We lit fires and hung ropes with bells around the entire house.

Tanjiro.

Yes?

Come with me.

I'm sorry that you're hungry.

But I will not let you come any closer.

I'll show no mercy to anything that tries to harm my family.

Heed my warning...

Or I will take your life.

The bear's head, as big as a small child, fell to the gound at a sound of a bell.

I couldn't follow it with my eyes, but I think my father slashed the bear twice in the span of a blink.

Otherwise, he wouldn't have been able to cut off its head with that small of a hatchet.

The entire time, my father's scent did not change.

He just stood there.

Did you see that?

Never forget what you just saw.

My father wasn't the type of person to show off his strength.

Later, I realized that he was teaching me a lesson.

He was teaching me how someone who sees the Transparent World moves.

The same way his father, grandfather, great-grandfather, was taught.

Never give up.

Keep your focus on it.

If you keep trying, you can scale any obstacle effortlessly.

I know, Father.

That's why a moment ago, I was able to dodge Akaza's attack.

That hit alone probably would've killed me.

Right now, me and Giyu-san are alternating between offense and defense.

I may have been able to dodge that fatal attack...

But Giyu-san couldn't make it in that time he was open.

For some reason, I didn't think I dodged in time.

Just for a moment I think that I entered that world.

The Transparent World.

I could see through his body...

It was the same as how I knew Hantengu was hiding inside of his own heart.

I don't know if I actually saw it or if I smelled it.

Dodge.

I was so focused on that, I closed off my other senses.

And my body moved faster than ever.

That was the world my father showed me.

The speed at which I could move increased drastically.

I was able to observe the flow of blood and oxygen.

Also, I could see exactly which muscles were contracting.

If I close off my fighting spirit, I might be able to go for Akaza's neck.

Watch closely...

It looks like you've shown me all of your forms.

That's enough, Giyu. It's time I end this.

I'm amazed by how long you've been able to keep up!

You're kidding!

Somehow he broke my blade...

From the side...

I was swinging down...

Farewell.

He cut his arm in the middle of the attack.

His breathing sounds different, his eyes too...

Tanjiro saved me.

Every cell in my body is telling me that I need to kill this kid right now.

Something about him changed.

He's dangerous!

He's completely focused on Tanjiro...

Technique Development, Final Form:

Blue Silver Chaotic Afterglow!

His attack power and speed is increasing even more!

Can I even withstand this with Dead Calm?

This is the place my father was talking about.

This is the Transparent World!

What's this? It's so strange. Is time passing slowly?

Or are movements just slower?

It's inescapable!

He let out 100 blows at once from every direction!

Even with Dead Calm, I couldn't block them all.

I'm impressed you're still alive after that.

Somehow you dodged all the fatal blows.

Don't die like Kyojuro and Tanjiro.

Become a demon, Giyu.

He doesn't notice?

Tanjiro survived the attack, too!

Wait...

Tanjiro, now's your chance if you can still move!

Before he realizes, go for his neck!

Akaza! I'm going to cut off your head!

Idiot! Don't call out to him!

He's alive?

How was he able to survive my final form?

No, it doesn't matter.

My Compass Needle will detect any attack he throws at me.

The stronger his fighting spirit, the easier it is to respond.

What? What is this odd presence?

It's like he's become a different creature entirely!

His fighting spirit is gone!

He has no fighting spirit!

Stay calm!

It's coming!

Hinokami Kagura:

Setting Sun Transformation!

No way!