Demon Slayer Chapter 167

Demon Slayer Chapter 167, titled "A Request," escalates the brutal confrontation between Sanemi Shinazugawa and Upper Rank One, Kokushibo, as Sanemi's rare Marechi blood proves to be a surprising advantage against the formidable demon. As the Wind Hashira and Upper Rank One clash, Kokushibo unleashes Moon Breathing, Fifth Form: Moon Spirit Calamitous Eddy, creating a rotating ring of unpredictable slashes and moon-like blades. Sanemi, noting Kokushibo's ability to repeat these slashes, counters with Wind Breathing, Third Form: Clear Storm Wind Tree. Kokushibo praises Sanemi's peak physicality and technique, while Sanemi silently acknowledges the demon's skill gives him goosebumps. He observes that each of Kokushibo's slashes is enveloped in chaotic, crescent blades, making them impossible to fully defend against without extensive experience. Sanemi is amazed by Kokushibo's Breathing Style, noting that his combination of speed, regeneration, and physical prowess makes his power continuously climb in the thrilling narrative of the Demon Slayer manga.

Sanemi excitedly declares Kokushibo a demon worth killing and uses Wind Breathing, Second Form: Claws - Purifying Wind, to slash at the demonic katana. Kokushibo effortlessly swats away the gusts but is met by Sanemi leaping down to slash at his neck. Kokushibo blocks Sanemi's katana but senses something beneath him, narrowly moving his neck away as Sanemi attempts to use Genya's fallen wakizashi with his foot. The two continue to exchange blows, with Sanemi matching the Upper Rank's every move. Kokushibo notes Sanemi's ability to keep up, remarking on the nostalgic feeling, a subtle hint at their shared past as sword-wielders. As Muichiro and Genya call out to him, Sanemi grows frustrated by the lack of breathing room, nearly dying from a missed swing. Kokushibo reminisces about sparring with the Wind Hashira during the Sengoku period.

Kokushibo then unleashes Moon Breathing, Sixth Form: Perpetual Night, Lonely Moon - Incessant, a frontal wave of slashes and blades that cuts Sanemi across his chest and limbs, also destroying the surrounding pillars. Genya, obstructed by the pillars and lattice walls, laments his inability to clearly see the battle. As Sanemi stands, bleeding profusely from his wounds, Kokushibo commends his resilience but warns him that moving will cause his organs to spill. To Kokushibo's confusion, Sanemi's pulse quickens. Sanemi laughs, explaining that Marechi blood, his own rare blood type, is to demons what silver vine is to cats. He suddenly attacks Kokushibo again, who stumbles back and staggers from Sanemi's slash. The Wind Hashira is exhilarated to discover that his blood affects even Upper Rank demons, showcasing a crucial weakness and a potential turning point in this desperate struggle against the most powerful of Muzan's subordinates in the climactic Infinity Castle Arc of the Demon Slayer manga.