Even Tatsuya, as powerful as he is, cannot defeat Muzan?
A heavy, almost desperate atmosphere began to permeate the scene.
Even Kyojuro Rengoku, usually so fiery and passionate, had his eyes dim a few shades.
He couldn't help but think of his own disheartened father... Was his father also like that because he had witnessed such a despair-inducing disparity in strength?
Seeing that the atmosphere was sufficiently set, Tatsuya spoke again, breaking the silence:
"So, this is why I adamantly insisted on keeping that father and daughter."
His gaze swept over every Hashira present, finally resting on Kagaya Ubuyashiki.
"Himura Senichi's special blood and condition are a heaven-sent, extremely valuable clue and aid for us to fight against Muzan. Perhaps it is the only key for us to understand demon blood, and even find a way to reverse its effects."
His gaze swept over every Hashira present, his words sharp yet hitting the core: "With all due respect, with the current overall strength of the Demon Slayer Corps, facing even an Upper Rank Demon is extremely difficult. Over hundreds of years, countless Hashira have sacrificed themselves at the hands of the Upper Ranks."
He then turned to Kagaya Ubuyashiki, changing the subject: "Master, how has the 'Compound Technique' provided earlier fared after being promoted among the Demon Slayers?"
Kagaya Ubuyashiki's face showed sincere gratitude, and he responded solemnly: "The effect is excellent! Tatsuya, the Compound Technique you provided has greatly solidified the foundation of the Demon Slayers, enhanced their recovery and endurance in prolonged battles, and even reduced many hidden injuries caused by practicing the Breathing Technique."
"This contribution is beyond words. On behalf of the entire Demon Slayer Corps, I express my deepest gratitude to you once again. And, I have also prepared a gift for you..."
Tatsuya raised his hand, interrupting the Master's subsequent words about the gift; he seemed indifferent to such things.
He said directly: "It's good that the effect is nice. Recently, based on Tanjirou's combat feedback and some new insights, I have further improved the 'Compound Technique', making it more efficient and more suitable for widespread practice."
His tone became serious: "Muzan has been very active recently, mass-producing demons and conducting various enhancement experiments. I'm sure you've all felt that the strength of the demons encountered has generally increased."
"Improving the overall fundamental strength of the Demon Slayer Corps is an urgent matter. I hope the improved Compound Technique can be promoted to all Demon Slayers as soon as possible."
He spoke very earnestly, because this represented a huge change in the world line.
Upon hearing this, Kagaya Ubuyashiki bowed deeply to Tatsuya.
His voice was filled with gratitude and solemnity: "Thank you again for your generosity and foresight! The Demon Slayer Corps will never forget your kindness!"
At this moment, the other Hashira in the courtyard looked at Tatsuya with completely changed eyes.
It was no longer just the awe brought by his unfathomable strength, but also a deeper sense of heartfelt admiration and gratitude.
Not only was he powerful, but he also thought without reservation about the future of the Demon Slayer Corps, contributing such a precious cultivation method.
"I support all of Tatsuya's decisions!" Gyomei Himejima was the first to speak, his voice like a resounding bell.
"Mhm! No doubt!" Kyojuro Rengoku immediately responded.
"A flamboyant strong man paired with a flamboyant contribution, I approve!" Uzui Tengen nodded with his arms crossed.
"I... I also support!" Kanroji Mitsuri quickly raised her hand.
Giyu Tomioka nodded silently.
Even the usually aloof Muichiro Tokito glanced at Tatsuya slightly.
At this moment, no one opposed Tatsuya's decision anymore.
Including Sanemi Shinazugawa and Obanai Iguro, who had just barely recovered from paralysis and struggled to sit up, both remained silent, signifying their tacit approval.
This was not only because of the absolute strength Tatsuya had displayed, which was enough to crush them, but also because of everything Tatsuya had done for the Demon Slayer Corps.
Those astonishingly effective medicines, that invaluable set of Compound Technique, and his determination and actions in fighting against Muzan.
This tangible, outstanding contribution earned their inner recognition and respect.
Seeing the attitude of the Hashira, a glimmer of light flashed in Tatsuya's eyes.
It seemed his choice was not wrong.
This wave of correct power display and contribution ensured that he would hardly hear any dissenting voices in the Demon Slayer Corps.
He was indeed generously dedicating himself to the cause of the Demon Slayer Corps... but according to the myriad realms compass's time-line interference principle, by improving the overall strength of the Demon Slayer Corps, it would likely provide him with a substantial amount of space-time coins... After further discussing the follow-up matters for each region, this impromptu meeting concluded.
The Hashira left the Ubuyashiki Estate one after another, and the courtyard returned to its usual tranquility.
Tatsuya had originally planned to return to the Butterfly Mansion with Kochou Shinobu and her group, but Kagaya Ubuyashiki asked him to stay.
"Tatsuya, please wait a moment." Kagaya's voice was still gentle, but carried an unusual solemnity.
Only then did Tatsuya recall the "gift" the Master had mentioned earlier. Seeing the other party's solemn demeanor, he knew this was no ordinary item.
He gestured for Kochou Shinobu to take Kyojuro Rengoku, Tanjirou, and Himura Ruri in her wheelchair, as well as the tightly sealed box, and return to the Butterfly Mansion first.
Kochou Shinobu understood, smiled and nodded, leading Tanjirou, who kept looking back curiously, and Ruri, whose expression was complex, away.
After everyone had left, Kagaya Ubuyashiki gently clapped his hands.
A servant, dressed in traditional attire and with a calm aura, silently emerged from behind the corridor, carefully holding a seemingly heavy ebony perch with both hands.
On the perch stood a Kasugai Crow whose feathers were entirely black as ink, almost absorbing all light.
Its body was slightly more slender than an ordinary Kasugai Crow, and its eyes were sharp and serene, without the slightest squawking of a normal Kasugai Crow; instead, it exuded a sense of spirituality.
"Tatsuya," Kagaya Ubuyashiki slowly began.
"The gift I mentioned earlier was not empty words. The Demon Slayer Corps has received your kindness many times, and we have no way to repay it. This is a specialized Kasugai Crow, named Silent Shadow Crow, cultivated and passed down through generations by the Ubuyashiki Clan."
As soon as he finished speaking, the Silent Shadow Crow gracefully lowered its head and bowed slightly to Tatsuya.
It no longer emitted a sharp "caw-caw" sound, but a deep, clear, and strangely magnetic male voice:
"I extend my highest respects to you, Lord Tatsuya. I have long heard of your name, and it is an honor to meet you today."
This was not merely imitating human speech, but a greeting truly imbued with wisdom and understanding!
Even the usually calm Tatsuya's eyes flashed with a hint of undisguised surprise.
This had completely exceeded his understanding of birds, and even of Kasugai Crows.