Mitsuri narrowly avoids being crushed and both fighters struggle against Nakime's blood demon art.
Muichiro is separated from Guu and encounters Upper Moon One, Kokushibo.
Chapter 165
Kokushibo examines Muichiro, recognizing him as a descendant.
Muichiro is initially paralyzed with fear but recovers his mental strength.
Muichiro attacks with Mist Breathing techniques but fails to land a blow on Kokushibo.
Kokushibo praises Muichiro's skills but reveals his true demonic powers, severing Muichiro's hand.
Chapter 166
Kokushibo offers to turn Muichiro into a demon.
Genya attempts to shoot Kokushibo but is gravely injured.
Kokushibo reminisces about a swordsman who ate demons 300 years ago.
Sanemi Shinazugawa arrives, attacking Kokushibo to save his brother.
Flashbacks reveal Sanemi's protective nature towards his siblings.
Sanemi fiercely battles Kokushibo.
Chapter 167
Sanemi and Kokushibo clash fiercely.
Sanemi becomes exhilarated at the thought of fighting a worthy demon.
Kokushibo's attacks are accompanied by crescent-shaped blades.
Kokushibo injures Sanemi but is affected by Sanemi's rare blood.
Chapter 168
Sanemi recounts his past, including the discovery of his rare blood's properties.
Sanemi meets Masachika Kumeno and learns about the Demon Slayer Corps.
Reflects on becoming a Hashira after Masachika's death.
Sanemi and Kokushibo continue their intense battle.
Chapter 169
Gyomei Himejima arrives to assist Sanemi against Kokushibo.
Gyomei impresses Kokushibo with his mastery of sound-based perception.
Their battle escalates with Kokushibo's blade regenerating multiple times.
Chapter 170
Muichiro frees himself and joins the battle despite severe injuries.
Kokushibo taunts Gyomei about the inevitable death of those with Demon Slayer Marks.
Gyomei and Sanemi remember their resolve and continue fighting fiercely.
They manage to cut off Kokushibo's arm and Muichiro pierces his abdomen.
Chapter 171
Muichiro recovers Kokushibo's hair to heal Genya.
Kokushibo analyzes his foes, impressed by their skills and coordination.
Gyomei and Sanemi press the attack, slicing off Kokushibo's ear and shoulder.
Chapter 172
Kokushibo retaliates, injuring Sanemi and recalling his own past battles.
Sanemi is struck but remains defiant, allowing Muichiro to save him.
Genya resolves to help, remembering Tanjiro's encouragement.
Chapter 173
Gyomei tries to counter Kokushibo's relentless attacks.
Muichiro, Genya, and Sanemi coordinate their attacks.
They manage to land multiple injuries on Kokushibo.
Genya's bullets root Kokushibo in place, allowing an offensive by the Hashiras.
Chapter 174
Kokushibo is reminded of his past with Yoriichi Tsugikuni and experiences fear.
Yoriichi's incredible skill and gentle nature are revealed.
Kokushibo's fear of his brother is revisited.
Kokushibo launches an all-out attack, gravely injuring Genya.
Chapter 175
Muichiro's blade turns red, injuring Kokushibo.
Sanemi and Gyomei manage to cut off Kokushibo’s head.
Kokushibo reflects on his ambitions and fear of failure.
Kokushibo ultimately disintegrates, haunted by memories of his brother.
Conclusion
These chapters mostly revolve around the high-stakes battles against Upper Moon One, showcasing the strengths and resolve of the demon slayers. The complex emotions and flashbacks provide deeper context into the characters' motivations and fears, culminating in Kokushibo's ultimate defeat and his reflective demise.
Summary
Intense battles against Upper Moon demons
Character development through flashbacks
Emergence and significance of Demon Slayer Marks
Themes of legacy, fear, and the conflict between human and demon nature