Kanae's Arrival

Ryou opened his Sharingan, allowing the Natural energy to flow through it. As he channeled the Natural energy, aside from the usual clear vision and heightened senses, he found something different.

There was an additional energy as if he could utilize it to visually control others. 'No doubt, I can now use illusion!'

He could now use illusion techniques, similar to the genjutsu of the Sharingan, but how far he could use them, he didn't know yet. He was eager to explore it further as it's formidable in battle.

Next, he turned his attention to Tekkai. 'Let's test Sharingan later...' Closing the Sharingan, he channeled Natural energy into his muscles as he performed Tekkai.

His skin took on a slight sheen, a translucent film shrouded his entire body. This added layer not only improved his strength but also made him feel tough and impervious.

Without thinking, Ryou clenched his fist and struck the ground with a punch. The force of the impact was tremendous, far surpassing what he envisioned.

With a thunderous noise, a shockwave spread out sending rock and dust flying into the air. The force of the blow created spider-like fissures that radiated from the point of contact, splintering the earth in all directions.

"This is incredible," Ryou muttered to himself, glancing around. "And it seems like I overdid it!"

The sheer power of his punch left a deep impression on the training ground, nearly devastating it entirely.

"What happened, Ryou-sama?" Yui and Hina emerged with nervous expressions. Seeing the nearly destroyed training ground, they were initially horrified.

'How did it come to this?' Instead of worry, they felt a surge of excitement. 'Ryou-sama is so strong!'

"It seems like I went too far," Ryou said, scratching his head with a sheepish smile.

"No need to worry, Ryou-sama," Yui replied, her eyes sparkling with respect. "We will inform the Ubuyashiki household to use stronger materials for reconstructing the training ground."

"Sorry for the trouble, you two," Ryou spoke.

"No problem, Ryou-sama!" Yui and Hina replied and went off to do their duties.

'The combination of Natural energy with Sharingan and Tekkai has elevated their power to a whole new level,' Ryou mused. With his current strength, he felt confident that he could even fight Upper Moons barehanded. 

Ryou ended his training and focused on utilizing Natural energy to improve his physique proficiency. The day passed quietly, filled with practice and some chatter with Yui and Hina.

--

The next day,

An unexpected visitor from the Swordsmith Village came to the Nature Manor—Kozo Kanamori, the one who forged his Nichirin sword! He wore the same dark pink mask as always.

Seeing him, Ryou greeted warmly, "Kanamori-san, please come in. It's good to see you. what brings you here today?"

Kanamori stepped inside the manor, his eyes shining with respect and a hint of excitement. "I wanted to personally congratulate you on becoming a Hashira.

With my sword in your hands, you have ascended to the rank of Hashira. It's not every day that a swordsmith sees his sword wielded by Hashira, the strongest demon slayers of the Corps. It's a proud achievement for both of us. I am very happy!"

He even shed tears of joy as he continued. "In addition, I have come to ensure your sword is in perfect condition and engrave the words 'Destroyer of Demons' as you have reached the rank of Hashira."

"I see," Ryou then handed over his Nichirin Sword to Kanamori.

Unsheathing the sword from the scabbard, Kanamori's eyes sparkled. He inspected the blade closely, running his fingers along its edge with admiration.

"It's perfect without any damage. Only someone with exceptional skill can wield a sword without causing the slightest damage."

Regarding the comment, Ryou simply smiled. After that, Kanamori carefully prepared his tools and began the meticulous work of engraving the words 'Destroyer of Demons' onto the blade. 

At that moment, Hina came to serve tea and said, "Ryou-sama, Flower Hashira is here!"

"Good!" Ryou's eyes lit up. Turning to Hina, he said, "Stay here. If he needs any help in the process, assist him."

Hina nodded obediently. "Of course, Ryou-sama."

--

When Ryou went to meet her, he found Kanae seated gracefully on a tatami mat in the traditional Seiza style, enjoying the tea served by Yui.

"As the saying goes, women become more beautiful with age. It holds true for you," Ryou said with a smile.

Kanae's tall and graceful figure, adorned with perfect curves, was complemented by her flowing black hair and mesmerizing pale violet eyes. Her presence exuded strength, elegance, and charm, making it impossible for Ryou to take his eyes off her.

"My... My... You haven't changed a bit, Ryou-san!" Kanae said, maintaining her usual smile. However, she was secretly blushing, noticing Ryou's gaze lingering on her chest as he praised her beauty.

'Is he praising me or...?' Kanae wondered, her blush deepening despite her efforts to maintain her composed demeanor.

Observing the exchange between the two Hashira, Yui giggled inwardly and quietly exited the grand hall, leaving Ryou and Kanae alone.

Ryou smiled, enjoying the rare sight of Kanae revealing her girly side. Knowing he shouldn't push her too hard, he inquired, "What brings the beautiful Kanae here? Did you perhaps miss me?"

Kanae charmingly rolled her eyes at Ryou and said, "No. I came to ask for your advice, Ryou. Lately, I've felt that my strength has reached a fixed state with no sign of improvement.

The Tekkai skill you taught me also seems to have stopped improving. My intuition tells me that you could help me breakthrough."

"Is it women's intuition? It's terrifying!" Ryou said with a playful grin. Then his expression turned serious. "Let's go to the training ground."

Kanae nodded, and together, they left the grand hall and walked to the training ground on the west side of the manor.

As they strolled, Ryou struck up a conversation. "How's that girl Shinobu? I haven't seen her for nearly a year."

Kanae showed a genuine smile at the mention of her sister. "She's doing well. Despite not possessing the physical strength to cut off a demon's head, she has found a way to fight demons with powerful wisteria-based poison. And she's good at it.

To make up for her lack of natural-born combat ability, she mastered the medical and pharmaceutical fields," Kanae explained. "Her knowledge of poisons and medicine is exceptional. In a year or two, her strength may even reach the level of Hashira."

Ryou nodded, "That's good but I hope she doesn't push herself too hard."

"It seems you care about her very much..." Kanae mentioned with a smile.

"Of course. I see her as my little sister and I hope she doesn't fight the demons." Ryou said.

Hearing his words, Kanae sighed softly. "Indeed. I too wish she could be a normal girl, free from all this, and live a carefree life, but it's impossible with demons roaming the land and her childhood experience of losing our parents to a demon. She hasn't forgotten that."

"We all have our reasons for fighting the demons. But it's important to find moments of peace and do things that make us happy, even in these dark times." Ryou said as they reached the training ground.

--

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