Talent on par with the Mist Pillar, Muichiro Tokito. In just two months, Raiden had risen from an ordinary Demon Slayer to a Pillar-level talent. The sheer speed of his growth was a testament to the terrifying power of Superior Talent.
The Infinity Train incident had concluded, and the Entertainment District arc was still weeks away. Raiden knew that with his newly attained Superior Talent, breaking through to Pillar rank was no longer impossible. He did not crave the rank for vanity, but after facing Akaza, he understood that Muzan would inevitably take notice. Being ready to handle any future threat meant breaking through was a necessity.
[Required Superior Talent for promotion to Superior Talent: 5/5, promotion conditions met]
[Do you wish to promote now?]
[Yes]
As soon as Raiden confirmed his promotion, a surge of internal energy rippled through him. It was as if a long-dormant behemoth had awakened within, its immense power coursing through his body. The exhilaration was unprecedented.
Raiden sat cross-legged on the tatami, closing his eyes to focus on the five Superior Talents that had spontaneously manifested. Each talent represented a unique potential, and under his guidance, they began to merge slowly.
The process transformed him from within. Every breath absorbed more natural energy, each heartbeat accelerated the flow of power, and his consciousness expanded into a vast, cosmic space filled with flowing energy and shimmering light. The lights—representing his talents—collided and fused under his will, forming a radiant orb pulsating with raw energy.
This fusion was more than physical; it was spiritual. When the last ray of light merged into the orb, Raiden felt a complete purification and elevation of body and mind. His inner world expanded, every cell saturated with vitality, his breathing deep and forceful.
When the fusion completed, Raiden opened his eyes. His body felt impossibly light, as if he could float on the wind. Even his broken ribs and dislocated shoulder had restored themselves without explanation.
Raiden's senses were immediately drawn to a pungent odor. He looked down and saw a thin layer of grayish-black impurities covering his body—a residue expelled by the deep purification. He rubbed his skin, and the remnants flaked away like dust, leaving him cleansed.
Standing, Raiden felt his body crackle and pop, not in pain, but in a satisfying release of tension. Changing out of his soiled clothes, he drew a bucket of hot water, letting the warm liquid wash away the last traces of impurities. Droplets ran down his sculpted muscles, leaving his skin smooth and vibrant.
Steam filled the bathroom as Raiden inhaled deeply, each breath drawing moisture into his lungs, invigorating every cell. The power flowing through him now was unlike anything he had felt before—an unstoppable tide of energy pushing his body and spirit to new heights. His entire presence radiated a sharp, commanding aura.
Opening his eyes, Raiden punched his palm gently, feeling the raw energy coursing within. Thoughts of Akaza crossed his mind. Doubts lingered from before, when he wondered if he could truly defeat Akaza in both Transparent World and Compass Needle states. Now, he was certain: dual-state enhancement would leave Akaza no chance.
The Talent had not only amplified his strength but granted him a new perspective, allowing him to analyze and resolve challenges with heightened insight.
After showering, Raiden stood before the mirror, water clinging to his lashes and eyebrows, glinting like crystal. His body was a masterpiece of muscle and definition, from broad shoulders to taut abdomen, every line and curve exuding strength and control. His movements were smooth and deliberate, each motion highlighting the powerful form beneath.
Raiden's thoughts turned to the upcoming Entertainment District mission. The Sound Pillar was in charge of this arc. Last time, Raiden had been frustrated by the Sound Pillar's arrogance, unable to assert himself fully. This time, he would be ready. The same Transparent World that had allowed him to suppress Akaza could easily subdue the Sound Pillar, who had barely survived an encounter with Upper Moon Six. Raiden's fists would speak louder than words.
He allowed a faint, confident smile to touch his lips, anticipation rising. The future challenges were clear, and for the first time, Raiden felt truly prepared.