The instant Haruto entered the Transparent World, the sense of being watched that had clung to him like a shadow vanished completely.
The fighters before him slowed in his vision, and he could now clearly see the mocking smile that never left Akaza's face.
This demon was taking pleasure in the fight!
Haruto could also see every contraction of Kyojuro's muscles.
Kyojuro's command of his sword techniques and Breathing Style, as well as his grasp of the battle, was more polished today than it had been when he fought Gyokko!
Fighting demons was the best teacher. Breaking through one's limits in battle was the best way to improve!
Amid that stillness and slowed motion, Haruto rose onto his toes and drifted through the night wind like a shadow.
Akaza, who was trading barbs with Kyojuro, failed to notice Haruto quietly approaching.
That helped the swordsman understand something.
Throughout their earlier battle, he had felt himself being watched. Every movement had been laid bare before Akaza's eyes, every strike met with a block and a counter.
Now he finally knew why.
Once deployed, the Snowflake Barrier beneath the demon's feet likely gave him a tremendous boost in his ability to predict attacks.
But by entering the Transparent World, Haruto had effectively erased himself from Akaza's senses.
The feeling of being watched had vanished. Naturally, Akaza could no longer sense his presence, much less predict his attacks!
Haruto twisted his body and tilted his head up behind Akaza.
The bright moon... rose!
Haruto leaped, his face expressionless. Only the blade in his hand flashed as it carved a shining arc through the air!
The blade sliced cleanly into the demon's neck, but just as it was about to sever his head, it could advance no farther.
Akaza's eyes widened as he whipped