AI Model: gemini-2.5-flash
Tanjirou's eyes widened, and he observed and learned eagerly, trying to engrave every detail into his mind.
The solid foundation laid by the Qi Refining Technique, and his own latent Transparent World aptitude… allowed him to perceive the subtleties of power exertion techniques and breathing coordination more clearly than ordinary people.
His progress was astonishingly fast.
Even so, he still found it difficult to fully master the "Thunder Stance" that pursued extreme speed and instantaneous destructive power.
Especially the subsequent forms of swordsmanship, which required higher explosiveness and precise control, always felt like there was a layer of separation.
Kuwajima Jigorō watched Tanjirou's training, his eyes filled with admiration, but also revealing a hint of undetectable regret.
He patted Tanjirou's sturdy shoulder and sighed, "Tanjirou, your foundation is solid, your physique is strong, your lung capacity and body control… are far beyond ordinary people, even monstrous."
"But…"
The old man paused, looking at Tanjirou with piercing eyes: "Your 'heart' is too inclusive and gentle, like a vast and calm lake; it's difficult to ignite the kind of extreme focus, unwavering determination, and even a hint of destructive 'momentum' that Thunder Breathing requires. This is not a flaw, it's just a slight incompatibility with Thunder Breathing."
The old man's tone shifted, and he said with satisfaction, "However, to master all sword forms to such a proficient degree in such a short time is already a miracle."
His vision was sharp, and he had long seen that Tanjirou's core might belong elsewhere.
The ancient and profound breathing rhythm subtly emanating from the boy's body… But he firmly believed that practicing Thunder Breathing would undoubtedly greatly temper his body, enhancing his instantaneous explosive power and overall combat strength.
It was excellent as an auxiliary and strengthening method.
Under the special high-altitude, oxygen-deprived environment of Mount Taoshan and the brutal impact of the waterfall's torrent, Tanjirou progressed extremely quickly.
There was also Cheng Mo's subtle electrical stimulation (euphemistically called auxiliary body tempering) "unintentionally" released when he occasionally "passed by."
Coupled with Kuwajima Jigorō's ruthless hellish training, the boy's potential was completely squeezed out and unleashed.
On the third day, still under the roaring waterfall, Tanjirou endured the immense water pressure.
He struggled to maintain his breathing, swinging his already sore arms.
No… my breathing is getting messed up again… the water pressure is too great… I must find a more stable, deeper way… At one moment, he had an epiphany, and the breathing rhythm he had been trying to maintain suddenly underwent a subtle and profound change!
It was no longer deliberately controlled, but became incredibly natural, prolonged, and deep.
As if he had merged with the surrounding environment, with the water flow beneath his feet, and with the surging blood within him!
An invisible, flawless cycle seemed to form within his body, continuously generating strength.
This was maintaining the most efficient breathing state for twenty-four hours without interruption—
Total Concentration Constant!
Buzz—
A steady and powerful aura naturally emanated from him.
His body, which had been slightly trembling from resisting the impact, instantly became as stable as a mountain, and the wooden sword he swung even produced a sharper whooshing sound!
Kuwajima Jigorō on the shore immediately sensed the distinctly different change in Tanjirou's aura.
The old man was first stunned, then his eyes burst forth with astonishing brilliance, and he couldn't help but clap his hands and laugh heartily:
"Good, good boy! I truly didn't misjudge you, Total Concentration Constant! Hahahaha! What a true genius!"
His laughter was full of unbridled joy, echoing through the valley.
Even Zenitsu, who had been crying and complaining about the harsh training, was stunned by Tanjirou's sudden breakthrough.
He temporarily forgot his wailing, staring dumbfounded at Tanjirou, whose breathing had become long and deep, as if he had been reborn.
Zenitsu subconsciously muttered, "No, it can't be true… he… he's reached Constant already?"
Cheng Mo, who had been sitting quietly not far away, cultivating Chakra with his eyes closed, now slowly opened his eyes.
He looked at his disciple under the waterfall, whose aura was perfectly integrated, and nodded slightly.
It was a few days faster than estimated.
The Qi Refining Technique and the special environment here indeed had significant effects.
It seems, the time has come.
He stood up and walked to the overjoyed Kuwajima Jigorō and the still-dazed Zenitsu.
Cheng Mo said, "Teacher, Zenitsu, Tanjirou's foundation is already solid. His subsequent training can proceed systematically."
"I still have some personal matters to attend to, so I will take my leave today. Tanjirou, I entrust him to you."
At these words, all three were momentarily stunned.
Tanjirou quickly jumped out of the waterfall, not bothering to dry himself.
He asked anxiously, "Teacher? Are you leaving?"
The boy's face was filled with reluctance.
Cheng Mo looked at him and nodded, "Yes. Your next task is to stabilize your state, master the Thunder Breathing sword forms. Staying on Mount Taoshan is the best choice."
Although Tanjirou was extremely reluctant, he also understood that his current strength would only hold his teacher back.
He clenched his fists tightly, his eyes becoming incredibly firm: "Yes, Teacher! Please rest assured, I will redouble my efforts and catch up with you as soon as possible!"
Kuwajima Jigorō looked at Cheng Mo, understanding.
This disciple had long soared, possessing his own vast sky and responsibilities he had to bear.
Mount Taoshan could not keep him.
The old man heavily patted Cheng Mo's shoulder: "Go! A man's ambition is to travel far! I am here on Mount Taoshan, so rest assured!"
Zenitsu also sniffled and mumbled softly, "Senior brother… is leaving again… Be careful on your way…"
Cheng Mo's gaze lingered on the three faces for a moment, then he nodded.
He said no more, turning and walking towards the path down the mountain.
Reaching the end of the mountain path, he looked back at the three figures still standing on the peak of Mount Taoshan, watching him depart. A flash of azure lightning flickered around him.
The next moment, he transformed into a streak of lightning tearing through the sky, instantly vanishing into the distance, disappearing into the horizon.