Chapter 36: In the Small Forest

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Chapter 36: In the Small Forest

Ren had left a profound impression today.

Although I didn't like Ren initially, I couldn't deny his talent—it was so dazzling that even a child could see his potential.

Rengoku Kyojuro, the Flame Hashira, smiled as he gently patted Senjuro's head.

"Mr. Ren reminds me of how my father used to be," Kyojuro said warmly. "Patient and kind when teaching me... though I do miss the way he hurried off just now."

He glanced in the direction Ren had disappeared, a hint of regret flashing in his eyes.

If Ren had been brought into the fold during the Hashira meeting, Shinobu wouldn't have had any say in the matter.

Kyojuro sighed wistfully. "I wish I could take Ren as my student. Then I'd be able to ask him all the questions I've been pondering..."

Unfortunately, it was too late for that now.

Kyojuro hoisted Senjuro onto his shoulders. "We should head back before Father gets upset."

The two brothers walked home beneath the night sky, their figures disappearing into the distance.

---

On the other side, two small figures dashed through the forest under the cover of darkness.

Ren led the way, a rare smile on his face. He couldn't contain his excitement after meeting Rengoku Kyojuro in person—the Flame Hashira from the original story.

The memory of their spar still lingered. Kyojuro's explosive power had left a deep impression on Ren; it was his most challenging fight to date.

However, the rewards had been immense.

Not only had Ren mastered the full constant-breathing technique, but he had also developed an improved version: Full Concentration Constant Breathing. This enhanced method allowed him to enter a state of heightened focus more quickly and effectively.

With this technique, every cell in his body operated at peak efficiency, greatly enhancing his physical fitness. Combined with his activated markings, Ren's strength now rivaled that of a Hashira.

His "Bullet Time" ability had also evolved. Its range had doubled, and his observation, learning, and reaction times had significantly improved.

But the highlight of the day was the flame breathing technique he'd learned from Kyojuro. A breathing style with overwhelming attack power and range, it had inspired Ren to create his own variant—fire breathing.

He chuckled to himself, remembering Kyojuro's astonished expression. Despite being in his element, the Flame Hashira had been rendered speechless by Ren's innovations.

Ren's thoughts wandered. "I wonder how my new breathing technique will affect the story. Will Kyojuro become the Fire Hashira instead of the Flame Hashira? That would be amusing."

But then he shook his head. "Hopefully, he doesn't come after me again. That would be exhausting..."

"Ren."

A soft voice interrupted his thoughts.

Ren stopped, feeling a tug on his sleeve. He turned to find Kanoe standing beneath the moonlight, her face illuminated by its silvery glow.

The girl took a deep breath and whispered, "I want to learn."

Her words were so soft that Ren almost didn't catch them. She quickly lowered her head, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment.

Ren blinked, confused. "Learn? Learn what?"

He glanced around the forest and then at his young body. "You're not old enough to learn that," he said without thinking.

Kanoe tilted her head, puzzled. "What does age have to do with it?"

Realizing his misunderstanding, Ren sighed. "Oh, you mean the breathing techniques."

Kanoe nodded, gripping her Nichirin Sword.

Ren noticed the blade in her hand and frowned. "Wait, where did you get that sword? Didn't I damage yours earlier? That looks like Kyojuro's."

Kanoe hesitated, her expression nervous. "I... I forgot to return it."

Ren chuckled, flicking her forehead gently. "Be more careful next time. You don't want to make Kyojuro mad."

Kanoe's face turned bright red. "Y-Yes."

"Alright," Ren said, stepping back. "Let's get started."

He began demonstrating the basics of Full Concentration Constant Breathing. Kanoe watched attentively but soon looked confused.

"I already know this," she said hesitantly.

"No, you don't," Ren replied with a smirk. "What you know is Full Constant Breathing. What I'm teaching is an advanced version. There's a big difference."

Despite his explanation, Kanoe still seemed lost.

She pointed at Ren's hand and muttered, "I want to learn that breathing technique."

Ren sighed, patting her head. "This technique isn't suitable for you, but I'll create a breathing method tailored to your abilities next time. Sound good?"

Kanoe's face lit up as she nodded. "Okay."

Ren began teaching her the fundamentals of his technique.

To his surprise, Kanoe's talent was exceptional. She quickly grasped the key concepts and demonstrated impressive control over her breathing and oxygen intake.

But her impatience soon became evident. She tried to rush the process, inhaling too much oxygen before fully exhaling, which caused her to strain her lungs.

Seeing her wince, Ren stepped forward to help.

**