The titular force in Demon Slayer is in constant battle against the demons.
Its members constantly hone themselves, even to the point of reaching superhuman levels, just to match the man-eating creatures’ supernatural abilities. Interestingly, though, the person leading the troupe isn’t an all-powerful swordsman. Instead, it’s the ever-so-sickly Kagaya Ubuyashiki.
Kagaya, also known as the Oyakata-sama, has been doing a great job fulfilling his duties. During the Hashira Training Arc, however, his sickness finally caught up with him. He has become so weak he can’t even get up anymore, yet the fire in him is far from being extinguished. Even in his pitiful state, he manages to lure Muzan and damage Muzan by blowing up his residence alongside him, his wife, and his two children. This then raises the question of who will fill his role as the corps’ leader.
To give this question a definitive answer, delving into manga territory is necessary. As such, be warned that there will be spoilers for anime-only fans.
Kiriya Ubuyashiki is the next Oyakata-sama
The character that will take Kagaya’s mantle isn’t a new face. Following the Ubuyashiki’s family’s long line of Demon Slayer leaders, Kiriya Ubuyashiki assumes the role of Oyakata-sama. Despite his youth, Kiriya has been meticulously prepared for this role, having been groomed by Kagaya to understand the corps’ operations and the gravity of their mission. He then proves his competence during the Demon Slayer’s final stand against Muzan and the remaining Upper Moons.
Even while mourning his family’s death, Kiriya manages to fulfill his duties with remarkable resilience. His contributions during the final stand-off are crucial and cannot be understated. Together with his remaining sisters, Kiriya maps out and memorizes the ever-changing architecture of the Infinity Castle. He then uses this knowledge to guide the corps’ key players to their rightful places, ensuring strategic advantages in the battle against the demons.
