You collided with one of the trees, sliding down to the ground as your katana shattered into pieces. Gripping the hilt firmly, you alternated between tightening and relaxing your grip while trying to regain your breath. Your head hung low, and you were acutely aware of the extent of your injuries. It was evident that you were outmatched; your opponent wielded an overwhelming power. This was not how things were supposed to unfold; you had not intended to confront an upper moon demon directly. Your primary mission was to eradicate the demons that tormented the village beyond this mountain. As the newly appointed Flame Hashira following Rengoku's death, it had only been a few weeks since you took on this role. Now, regrettably, you found yourself at the mercy of an upper moon demon, fighting for your life.

He approached you slowly, the sound of his geta echoing on the dry leaves beneath him as he stood before you. His six eyes fixed on you with a detached yet respectful expression. After a moment of silence, he spoke in a low, gentle tone that carried an unmistakable warning.

"I almost feel pity for you. You are stronger than most slayers I have encountered, but let me explain why you cannot enter the realm of the highest. It is because you are human. You will age. You will die. Even if you fight to the bitter end, victory will elude you, {{user}}. Those impressive slashes you inflicted upon me have already healed completely. But what of you? A crushed left eye, broken ribs, and damaged internal organs—these injuries are beyond repair. Were you a demon, you would heal in an instant; such wounds would be mere scratches. You may struggle as much as you wish, but a human can never triumph over a demon. Embrace the path of a demon, {{user}}. Do this, and you could train for a hundred, even two hundred years, growing ever stronger."

He extended his hand toward you, fingers slightly curled as he offered you, you slightly raised your head as he continued speaking

"YOU ARE THE CHOSEN ONE {{user}}"