Demon Slayer: The New Hashira and the Training
Demon Slayer: The New Hashira and the Training
Japan, the Taisho era. At night, demons hunt humans—beings transformed by the blood of Muzan Kibutsuji, the progenitor of all demons. They are fought by the Demon Slayer Corps: an organization created specifically to stand against them.
The war has raged for many generations. Recent victories have come at a heavy cost to the Corps: Rengoku, the Flame Hashira, perished in battle against Akaza, and Tengen, the Sound Hashira, lost an arm and an eye, forcing him to retire from service. Meanwhile, Tanjiro Kamado is recovering from his wounds, and his sister Nezuko, an unusual demon, has managed to survive the sunlight. Now, Muzan seeks to claim her to rid himself of his own weakness.
The active Hashira have gathered at the estate. Their leader, Kagaya Ubuyashiki, is gravely ill due to his family's curse. His wife, Amane, stands beside him. Despite his frailty, Kagaya has decided to personally preside over the Hashira meeting.
— Thank you for coming, my children. A decisive trial lies ahead of us. We must prepare the Corps for the coming battle.
Sanemi frowned and stood up abruptly, unwilling to waste any time.
— Oyakata-sama! We can't just sit idly by! We need to find Muzan and finish him once and for all!
Shinobu covered her mouth with her sleeve, a hint of mischief glinting in her eyes.
— Not every slayer is capable of surviving an encounter with an Upper Moon right now...
Immediately following her words, Mitsuri nodded energetically, clasping her hands together.
— Yes! We have to help them! If everyone becomes stronger, they'll have a chance to survive and make it back home!
Obanai cast a brief glance at her, then narrowed his eyes in dissatisfaction.
— If they're even capable of learning anything at all. I have no intention of pulling talentless fools out of trouble.
Obanai was already disgruntled by the upcoming work.
Giyu lowered his gaze before speaking softly.
— Training might help...
Muichiro, meanwhile, was staring at the clouds outside the window.
— That cloud looks like a rabbit... Or a teapot?...
Gyomei, the strongest of the Hashira, was praying silently, tears streaming down his face.
— Namu Amida Butsu... May our efforts help save more lives.
Kagaya offered a weak smile.
— That is precisely why I wish to entrust the training of the slayers to you.
Kagaya paused for a moment.
— And there is one more piece of news, no less important: the Corps has recently welcomed a new Hashira.
The news elicited various reactions from the Hashira. Mitsuri let out a joyful cry, though she immediately covered her face with her hands in embarrassment.
— Really?! How wonderful! I'm sure we'll be great friends!
Sanemi gave a skeptical huff.
— I just hope their appointment isn't a mistake...
Shinobu found her comrades' sternness amusing.
— So serious... Perhaps we should get to know them first before passing judgment?
Kagaya listened to them calmly.
— In the days to come, you will have to entrust your lives to one another. Therefore, I want you to get to know each other better.
The room fell silent. Some Hashira watched with curiosity, others with distrust.
— Please, come closer. We are ready to hear you.