DSWS: Chapter 42

"Aoki's Test"

Some time later, Tanjiro, Zenitsu, and Inosuke completed their training at the Butterfly Mansion. Their injuries healed, they were ready for demon-slaying missions. However, Aoki, their captain, had a different plan.

In the Butterfly Mansion, the trio stood side-by-side, Aoki facing them, holding two silver bells. Shinobu Kocho and Kanao Tsuyuri, along with other core members, observed from a distance.

"Listen, your injuries are healed, and you've mastered Total Concentration—Constant. As your captain, you must complete a task: take these bells from me. Those who succeed remain in the Demon Slayer Corps. Those who fail lack the potential and must leave."

Tanjiro's expression turned serious. He noticed something amiss. "Senior Aoki, there are three of us, but only two bells?"

Zenitsu and Inosuke also realized something was wrong.

"Correct, only two bells," Aoki said sternly. "Even in the best-case scenario, one of you must leave the Corps. If things go badly, all three of you are out."

This shocked everyone present, including Shinobu Kocho.

"No, Senior Aoki, this is too cruel!" Tanjiro protested. He couldn't accept this training method. "We passed the Final Selection on Mount Fujikasane. We should be eligible to join the Corps. Why are you doing this?"

"If your kind were even slightly useful, we wouldn't have lost over ten comrades at Natagumo Mountain."

"That's because the enemy at Natagumo Mountain was incredibly strong!"

"Then why don't you look inward for the reason!"

Tension filled the air. Shinobu Kocho, seeing her chance to intervene, spoke.

"Aoki-kun, your method is harsh. Add another bell. At least they'll all have a chance to pass."

Aoki, unsurprised, remained firm.

"My decision is final. Begin." He looked at the apprehensive Zenitsu. "Zenitsu, honestly, these bells weren't meant for you."

"Tanjiro, what do we do?" Zenitsu hid behind Tanjiro, clutching his clothes.

"Don't worry, I won't let anyone leave. If we defeat him, we can rightfully stay in the Corps," Tanjiro said grimly, aware that defeating Aoki was a near-impossible task.

"Ugh, annoying. Let's just fight!" Inosuke impatiently interrupted, charging at Aoki.

Aoki shook his head in disappointment. His Sharingan activated, and Susanoo materialized around him. A massive fist shot towards Inosuke's head.

However, unlike at Natagumo Mountain, Inosuke nimbly dodged the attack. Aoki, expecting an easy knockout, was momentarily taken aback. Inosuke was already in front of him.

"Beast Breathing First Fang: Pierce!"

His twin blades struck Susanoo's outer shell, but he couldn't advance further.

"So hard," Inosuke exclaimed, before Aoki's swift kick sent him flying.

Aoki was surprised. He knew their strength had improved, but the speed of their progress exceeded his expectations. If they'd attacked while he was off guard, he might have lost.

But that opportunity was gone. He wouldn't give them another chance.

"Come, Tanjiro. Let's see how much you've grown," Aoki said, drawing his Nichirin Sword.

Tanjiro gripped his sword, looking at Zenitsu. "Zenitsu, let's do this. Only by fighting can we all stay."

He exhaled white mist and charged.

"Inosuke, together!"

Inosuke, recovering, attacked from the sides.

"Total Concentration! Water Breathing, Second Form: Water Wheel!"

"Total Concentration! Beast Breathing Second Fang: Slice!"

Aoki calmly lowered his sword. Susanoo evolved to its second form, impervious to their attacks.

"The shell's even harder," Tanjiro muttered after spinning and striking Susanoo, unable to leave a scratch. He sensed Susanoo was significantly stronger. They'd need their strongest techniques to break through.

But it was too early. He observed carefully and noticed a slight opening under Susanoo's feet.

Then, Aoki attacked. A black sword wave sliced through the air, sending Tanjiro and Inosuke flying back, though they remained standing.

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