Kanae took the opportunity to study Doma's movements and aura carefully. Her heart sank. Though Doma had been powerful two years ago, his presence had not been as restrained and deadly as it was now.
Now, the cold each sweep of his fans stirred up was several times more intense than before. Deep within his rainbow-colored eyes, a chilling dark red gleam occasionally flashed. This was the result of his transformation through Muzan's highly concentrated blood.
"Everyone, don't let your guard down." Kanae drew a deep breath, a faint pink sword aura emerging around the Nichirin Blade in her hand. "His strength has taken an enormous leap compared to two years ago. You absolutely must not inhale the ice powder he creates. It will freeze your alveoli instantly and shut down your Breathing Styles completely!"
A flicker of resolve crossed Shinobu's eyes. She knew that ordinary slashes were utterly meaningless against a monster of this caliber. Only her specially formulated poison offered a sliver of hope.
"Kanao, Inosuke, let's cover my sister and Shinobu!" Kanao drew her Nichirin Blade, the rhythm of Flower Breathing flowing steadily within her. Her gaze became ethereal and focused, her vision pushed to its limit.
The four scattered in an instant, surrounding Doma from four different directions.
The battle was on the verge of erupting.
"What lively children you are. To respond to your enthusiasm, I suppose I'll have to get a little serious." Doma's smile remained unchanged, but the golden fans in his hands began whipping about at a speed almost impossible to follow with the naked eye.
"Blood Demon Art: Lotus Vines."
Several thick vines formed from solid ice burst through the ice beneath Doma's feet. Like enormous ice dragons, they lashed toward the four fighters with piercing whistles.
"**Flower Breathing, Fourth Form: