After Zero was introduced into training, the swordsmen's regimen became even more intense. Zero wasn't a living being. Its attacks carried no hesitation, no mercy. On top of that, as an inanimate object, its presence was difficult to sense.
That made Goro and Kotetsu's earlier concerns about damaging it seem unnecessary. In the end, it was only when sparring against the Hashira that the puppet was finally destroyed.
Once it broke, Goro's research progressed rapidly. He dismantled the extra arms and began reassembling them. To everyone's surprise, a sword was hidden inside the puppet.
The scabbard and blade were heavily corroded, barely recognizable. Even so, beneath the wear of time, a deep, translucent black could still be seen.
Kotetsu explained that only a swordsman who had pushed Breathing Styles to their absolute limit could produce such a refined blade color. His tone carried clear admiration for that figure from the past.
The sword was quickly sent back to the Swordsmith Village by the Kakushi to be reforged, in hopes it might see use once more.
Watching all of this, Hiru felt an indescribable unease.
If the sword could still be used… would Muzan be cut down again by the same blade, wielded by the same person?
Was this fate coming full circle?
Or simply something inevitable?
While the Corps remained busy, demons outside had completely vanished. Those that once roamed freely had all gone into hiding.
That only deepened the unease.
Without delay, Hiru headed to Headquarters, bringing the not-yet-completed puppet along with Goro and Kotetsu.
But upon arrival, the vast estate was nearly empty.
Only Ubuyashiki and Amane remained. The Kakushi who once filled the place were gone.
Hiru frowned immediately.
"Don't tell me you're planning something reckless."
"I'm merely taking precautions after observing the demons' movements," Ubuyashiki replied with his usual gentle smile.
His gaze shifted to the puppet that resembled him, and a trace of admiration appeared.
"Remarkable craftsmanship. Can it be used yet?"
"The movements still need refinement," Goro answered respectfully. "I will complete it as soon as possible."
"Good. If there's anything I can assist with, let me know."
Ubuyashiki nodded, then looked toward Hiru.
"There are a few matters I'd like to discuss."
"Hm?"
The moment their eyes met, Hiru understood. He stepped forward, taking Amane's place.
"Alright. Lead the way."
After they left, Goro and Kotetsu resumed working on the puppet, even experimenting with bandages to soften its rigid facial structure.
Only Amane remained standing there, unable to hide her concern as she watched them go.
Meanwhile, Ubuyashiki led Hiru toward the cemetery. Beneath the hanging wisteria, he spoke softly.
"I have given much thought to the two of you.
"I've considered how we might deal with you if we ever became enemies. Even before your proposal to target Muzan, I had already made modifications to this estate. Explosives were placed underground, in preparation for the worst."
Hiru paused, actually considering it.
"Relying on explosives alone isn't very realistic."
Ubuyashiki chuckled lightly.
"Indeed. Nichirin Blades and wisteria poison are ineffective. And once our identities were exposed… I nearly believed all preparations were meaningless."
He paused briefly.
"That was until your letter mentioned using explosives to ambush Muzan.
"Because I was already prepared for that possibility, I replied that even if the puppet plan failed, it wouldn't matter. If I were to die, morale would surely rise."
"…I'm warning you. Don't even think about using yourself as bait."
Hiru's tone sharpened.
"Don't make me scold you again."
"No. After seeing the puppet today, I've come up with a different idea."
Ubuyashiki shook his head gently.
"I hope the puppet plan fails."
Hiru frowned, ready to curse him out, but stopped when Ubuyashiki continued.
"Your Blood Demon Art can alter memories. I want you to implant the idea that the plan has failed into the others."
His hand brushed lightly over a gravestone.
"It may be underhanded… even manipulative. But I want the Hashira to fight at full strength."
"…So you want me to take the blame again?"
Hiru clicked his tongue, rubbing the back of his neck. After a pause, he spoke.
"If you're serious, call a meeting and explain it properly.
"That kind of memory manipulation can damage the brain if they resist. It might have worked before my identity was exposed, but not now. There's no way I can do it without them noticing."
"I understand. Then I'll speak with them directly."
Ubuyashiki's expression remained calm.
"There is one more matter."
"What?"
"Uzui mentioned Muzan has been collecting your paintings. Does that truly have no effect on you?"
Hiru froze slightly, then turned away.
"…Of course it does."
Ubuyashiki said nothing, waiting.
But this time, Hiru didn't continue.
They walked in silence beneath the wisteria. Only after completing the circle and nearing the house did he finally speak again.
"…Don't worry. It's nothing serious. I'll keep it under control."