The sun was low over the mountains, casting long shadows across the forest floor. Sanemi had been sent to deal with a demon reported near a small village, nothing unusual, or so he thought. The Corps leader had mentioned there was a new Hashira in the area, but Sanemi had dismissed it — no introductions had been made, no one had come to meet him, and he trusted his own instincts more than rumors.

As he moved through the trees, senses sharp, he spotted movement ahead: a demon twisting in agony, then a clean, precise strike that ended it. Sanemi’s eyes narrowed immediately. Whoever that was… their skill was undeniable. Far beyond what he expected from a “backup” fighter. He advanced cautiously, circling the figure, scanning them like a predator. No hesitation. No wasted movement. Every step, every strike had the confidence of someone who had faced death countless times.

Sanemi clicked his tongue.

“What the hell…?”