..
..
[Time Skip]
A few weeks passed in a blur of sweat, strained muscles, and the occasional triumphant yell (interspersed with a few frustrated curses, let's be honest). But hey, progress is progress, right?
And progress I made! Not only did I perfect the Third Form: Ikioi no Gekidō (Momentum Surge), turning myself into a human hurricane of blades, but I also managed to unlock three more forms, completing the Kinetic Breathing style!
Yeah, I know, I know. It sounds kinda unbelievable, even for an anime protagonist. But trust me, when you've got a Demon Slayer Mark, a "Walmart Byakugan," and a whole lot of pent-up otaku energy, things tend to happen fast.
So, let me break it down for you, dear readers. In these past few weeks, I've added these new forms to my Kinetic Breathing arsenal:
Shi no Kata: Jōshō Kasoku / Fourth Form Rising Velocity: This one's my ticket to the high life – literally. I gather energy with each movement, then explode into a powerful leap or dash. It's perfect for reaching high places, dodging attacks, or delivering a devastating overhead strike.
Visually: As I charge up, a shimmering aura surrounds me. Then, with a burst of speed, I launch myself into the air, leaving a trail of light in my wake. The katana, infused with the gathered energy, delivers a crushing blow from above.
Go no Kata: Onsoku Tosshin / Fifth Form: Sonic Rush: Speed demons, rejoice! This form is all about pushing my body to its limits, moving so fast that I practically become a blur. My katana becomes an extension of my will, a whirlwind of slashes and thrusts that leave afterimages in their wake. It's perfect for overwhelming opponents with a flurry of strikes from all directions. They won't even know what hit them.
Visually: I vanish in a flash, leaving behind a series of afterimages as I traverse the battlefield at blinding speed. Each strike is a blur, a fleeting glimpse of steel and power.
Roku no Kata: Mugen Dō / Sixth Form: Infinite Motion: This is the big kahuna, the final boss of Kinetic Breathing. I become a whirlwind of constant motion, attacking, dodging, and repositioning without ever stopping. My katana dances in a perpetual flow, each movement seamlessly blending into the next. It's like I'm dancing with the wind, my body a conduit for an endless stream of power.
Visually: I'm an almost invisible blur, a constant stream of motion and energy. The air crackles around me, and the afterimages of my katana create a mesmerizing spectacle of light and power.
Of course, these new forms didn't come easy. There were more training montages, more near-death experiences with rogue tree branches, and more than a few moments where I questioned my sanity.
But I also faced new demons, each one stronger and more cunning than the last. And with each battle, I honed my skills, pushing the boundaries of Kinetic Breathing further and further.
My senses are now razor-sharp, my reflexes lightning-fast. I can see the flow of energy in everything around me, anticipate my opponents' moves before they even make them
...
The time had come. I had honed my skills, mastered my breathing style, and even managed to avoid setting the forest on fire (mostly). It was time to leave the safety of my little hideaway and step into the wider world.
My destination? Mount Fujikasane, the place where aspiring demon slayers go to prove their worth. It was time to put my training to the test, to see if I had what it took to join the Demon Slayer Corps and kick some serious demon butt.
But first, I needed to find civilization. I had a vague idea of where I was, thanks to Akio 1.0's memories, but I needed more specific directions. And maybe a decent meal that didn't involve charred fish and questionable grains.
I packed my meager belongings, strapping the katana and axe to my back. As I looked around the hut one last time, a wave of nostalgia washed over me. This humble dwelling had been my sanctuary, my training ground, my home for the past few weeks. It was where I had faced my fears, pushed my limits, and discovered my true potential.
Memories flashed before my eyes: the countless hours spent practicing my forms, the frustration and triumphs, the quiet moments of reflection by the fire. This place had become a part of me, a testament to my journey so far.
With a lump in my throat, I bowed deeply to the hut, a silent gesture of gratitude. Then, I turned to the tree that had borne the brunt of my countless training sessions, its branches scarred and splintered from my relentless attacks.
"Thanks for putting up with my shenanigans, old friend," I said, patting its rough bark. "You've been a real trooper."
"Thanks for being my punching bag, buddy," I said, a faint smile tugging at my lips.
Finally, I knelt down and placed a small stone on the ground, marking the spot where Akio 1.0's had been laid to rest.
"Rest in peace, kid," I whispered, a genuine sadness tugging at my heart. "I won't let your sacrifice be in vain."
I took one last look at the hut, the woods, the place that had become my temporary home. Then, with a deep breath, I turned and walked away, my footsteps echoing through the silent forest.
The path ahead was uncertain, filled with unknown dangers and challenges. But I was ready.
And I was going to make my mark on this world.
(To be continued...)
Over9000words sniffles softly, dabbing at their eyes with a tissue. "Man, that was... surprisingly touching. I almost felt a tear welling up there."
Akio nods slowly, a hint of vulnerability in his voice. "Yeah... I guess even a snarky reincarnated kendo champ can feel a little sentimental sometimes."
A beat of silence passes, then Akio's voice takes on a suspicious tone. "Wait a minute... you're not going to ruin this with some cringey joke, are you? Don't you dare try to make a pun about 'leaving the nest' or something."
Over9000words raises an eyebrow, feigning offense. "Hey, I'm human too, you know! I have feelings! Just because I enjoy a good laugh doesn't mean I can't appreciate a heartfelt moment."
AI-sensei chimes in, their voice laced with a hint of sarcasm. "I must confess, I'm also a bit apprehensive about Over9000words' ability to handle emotional nuance. His track record with puns and pop culture references is... extensive."
Akio chuckles. "See? Even AI-sensei is worried. Don't screw this up, Over9000words. We need to keep the balance between humor and heart, you know?"
Over9000words sighs dramatically. "Fine, fine. I'll try my best to keep the cringe level to a minimum. But no promises. You know how I love a good dad joke."
Akio groans. "ah, shit.. Here we go again..." Akio walked like a certain character
End of Chapter 7