FULL STORY SUMMARY

Rated E for explicit. Reader discretion advised.

After Kibutsuji Muzan and Mujōna conquered the Sun and converted the Demon Slayers, its up to a new organization to stop the Demon Overlords.


AUTHOR'S NOTES

Hello! I've decided to wrap up Part Three 😭 I can assure you that Part Four will be much better 💗

🍷I HAVE A FEW CHAPTERS OF PART FOUR DONE! I'm currently editing. I may post the first chapter, but I don't know!🍷

I appreciate all the support, comments, and suggestions I've gotten! You, the readers, helped shape this story into what it is today.

About four months ago, I started this series because I was bored, horny, and dissatisfied with what happened to our beloved Muzan. Now, it's actually become... something more. Something greater.

🏮Never in a million years would I thought that I could actually be committed to something, and truly enjoy it.

To know that someone out there is reading and enjoying my writing is— Words cannot explain how much joy that brings me.

One day, I hope to write my OWN manga, book, or whatever.

But most importantly, THANK YOU FOR READING

有り難う


CHAPTER VOCABULARY

* onigiri: Japanese food made from white rice.

* engawa: an edging strip of non-tatami-matted flooring.


MEDIA DICTIONARY

* Thoughts

* "Dialogue."

* 'Telepathic dialogue.'

* '"Hearing someone's thoughts.'"

* "Past conversation."

* {Sound}

* [Movement]


AOI

After yet another day of rigorous training with Sakonji, Aoi and Hikari were finally allowed to take a break.

The two women laid upon straw mats that rubbed against their skin and made them itch. They stared at the wooden ceiling in silence, and only their breathing was heard.

After a while, Aoi asked, "…How are you holding up?"

"I am fine," Hikari said, never taking her eyes off the ceiling above.

"Are you certain?"

"Yes."

"Well, I don't believe you." Aoi turned to her and said, "One thing I've learned is that its unwise to endure hardships alone, so let's talk."

Silence.

Frowning, Aoi growled, "Hikari, didn't you just hear me?"

"Aoi, I'm tired. We can continue this in the morning." Hikari sighed as she turned on her side.

"But we haven't—"

"Goodnight, Aoi."

Aoi scoffed and turned on her side, then slowly fell into a deep slumber.

Hours later, Aoi awakened and saw that Hikari wasn't beside her. Slivers of moonlight seeped through the cracks of the barn, which told her that it was still nighttime.

Aoi groggily stood up and stretched. Suddenly, she heard muffled sounds from outside. As she neared, the muffled sounds turned into a voice.

A beautiful, mellifluous voice.

The euphonious, angelic singing was like that of a siren and lured Aoi to a stream.

There, she saw a woman.

Hikari.

Hikari's back faced her and strange orbs of light surrounded her. The sight was beautifully ethereal, and Aoi felt like she was committing a crime for intruding.

Aoi shakily backed away and hid behind a tree, bewitched. Hikari's singing seemed to put her in a soothing trance.

Pick a white flower to give to Her.

In Her beautiful black hair, I'll place the flower

White flower, white flower, in Her hair

It will bloom and sway like The Sun.

Pick a red flower to give to Him.

On Him chest next to His heart, I'll place the flower

Red flower, red flower, within His heart

It will bloom and sway like The Moon.

"You've came to say farewell?" Hikari abruptly asked.

…Who is she talking to? Is she talking to those orbs?

Aoi timidly took a peek from behind the tree, her eyes widened beyond belief. The balls of light danced around Hikari, and she cradled them in her palms.

...I've never seen anything like this before!

"No. You don't need to do such a thing for me."

The balls of light danced around her at a much faster pace for a while until Hikari held on close to her. "…Alright. I am very grateful. Thank you, Sister Nenriki."

Who?

Then the orbs of light seeped into Hikari's body one by one. A powerful force that felt like wind brushed past Aoi, which took her breath away.

The melody of owls, frogs, and cicada and water trickling by filled the air. After a while, Hikari began to sing the same song as before.

Pick a white flower to give to Her.

In Her beautiful black hair, I'll place the flower

White flower, white flower, in Her hair

It will bloom and sway like The Sun.

Pick a red flower to give to Him.

On Him chest next to His heart, I'll place the flower

Red flower, red flower, within His heart

It will bloom and sway like The Moon.

Aoi stealthily ran back to the barn and laid on the mat. As she tried to go back to sleep, visions of what she had seen flashed in her mind.

I don't understand what I just saw. Should I confront Hikari? No, that'll be a mistake and cause unnecessary drama; something we don't need any more of.

I'll just keep going and act like nothing's changed. My focus should be on saving the slayers anyway.

Just hang on everyone.

Just hang on.


MUJŌNA

Mujōna was just about to return to The Eien no Kyūden until she heard Muzan talking to her.

'Mujōna.'

'Yes, My Love?'

'…It seems that Kokushibou has really taken a liking to your attendant.'

'What do you mean?'

'He has claimed her.'

Upon hearing that, Mujōna almost toppled over from shock.

'Are you serious, Muzan?'

'Yes. I told him that there will not be a wedding until I personally give the go ahead.'

'…This changes everything.'

'Yes, indeed.'

When Muzuki arrives and I and Muzan discover what exactly makes me able to conceive, Kokushibou and Nodoka will surely be the first couple we'll give the gift of fertility to.

An awkward period of silence was suspended in the air.

'…I'll speak to Nodoka, Muzan.'

'Fine. Don't take too long.'

'Okay.'

Mujōna composed and tidied herself in the mirror, then summoned her two personal assistants: Hakanai and Hikiharau.

The two identical, white-haired female demons appeared behind her. "At your service, Lady Mujōna," they said in unison.

Mujōna lovingly caressed both of their cheeks and said, "My Sweets, I'll be gone for a while. I want you two to keep everything in check."

"Yes, My Queen."

"Also, take care of Giyu. Make sure all of his needs are met and keep a close eye on him."

"Of course, Lady Mujōna. We will yearn for the return of you, His Lordship, and the two princes."

Before she vanished, Mujōna embraced them and kissed both of their foreheads. "I love you two as if you were my very own. Farewell."


NODOKA

Nodoka anxiously sat in the cave where she and Kokushibou made love, a heart wrenching pain swirling in her gut. Fear of rejection, threats, and hostility from Muzan plagued her mind.

The Demon Lord had already made it clear that he disliked her, and probably even loathed her. He could easily say that they couldn't be together, and Kokushibou would have no choice but to obey.

And that terrified her.

Nodoka stared at the mark that was shaped in the letter 'K.' The urge to cry drove her mad, but she disregarded it.

I can't cry on one of the best days of my life.

I just can't.

Soon, the familiar scent of vanilla and roses permeated the air. Nodoka deeply inhaled the saccharine fragrance and immediately felt at ease.

…Lady Mujōna.

'Nodoka, come to me.'

Nodoka quickly dressed herself and headed out the cave. There, she saw Mujōna sitting upon a bench and sat beside her.

The Queen ran her claws through Nodoka's white hair and cooed, "Nodoka, I've heard the wonderful news of your union with Kokushibou. I'm so happy for you two."

"Thank you so much, Lady Mujōna," she said, her cheeks tingling with joy.

Mujōna pulled down the shoulder of her kimono and revealed the mark where Muzan had claimed her. The initials 'M.K.' glistened ever so beautifully in the light.

"Demons claim their mates in many ways," she said. "Some mark each other with their scents, and some roam the Earth in pairs. But the symbol of you and I share on our shoulders is a sacred ceremony only reserved for powerful high-ranking demons."

Then Mujōna leaned in even closer and said, "And I was the first one to ever be claimed in such a way, not to mention the fact that I was human."

Nodoka gasped, "His Lordship claimed you when you were human?"

"Yes. At first, it was only the letter 'M' but after we were properly wedded, the 'K' was added."

The white-haired woman stared at her mark, blushing at the thought of marrying Kokushibou. The mere thought of walking down the aisle terrified her, and she didn't know if she could handle such a thing.

"It's alright, Nodoka. A proper marriage is only optional, and Kokushibou can alter the mark in any way he sees fit. The bond you two now share surpasses that of a wedding ceremony. This mark binds you two as one and is a vow to protect and love each other for the rest of eternity. What many don't know is that love is different for demons compared to humans. Humans fall in and out of love each day, but demons are incapable of doing so. For demons, love is a deeply rooted, ingrained, inexorable thing that's permanent. The love your mate has for you will never fade and it may be overwhelming at times, but that's just how it is. To earn a demon's trust, love, and admiration is such a profound achievement, and you should reward yourself by loving him freely."

Nodoka was rendered speechless by Mujōna's words, and her azure eyes widened beyond belief.

With a smile, Mujōna traced Nodoka's mark and said, "You've become more than my attendant to me, Nodoka. I now see you as not only a friend, but a sister."

'You are the sister I've never had, Nodoka, and I am so grateful to have you in my life.'

Nodoka moved her lips to respond, but not even a whisper could escape her lips. She nearly fainted from shock when Mujōna kissed her cheek and whispered, "Farewell."

The Queen vanished in thin air and left Nodoka as a disoriented puddle of mess.

…Goodbye, Lady Mujōna.

I'll miss you.


TIMESKIP: SIX MONTHS

OMOIKITTA

After six months of grueling, vigorous training with the First Stage Kakushi, Omoikitta was ready for the First Exam. Her First Stage instructor, Dūlen-sama, was a heavy-handed man who beat her every chance he got, but pushed her to succeed.

If I can survive Dūlen being my sensei, then I can survive anything! That old man was a piece of work!

Omoikitta and eight other people stood in a row, awaiting further instruction. Soon, Akemi and Fūryū approached them.

"Congratulations on completing your First Stage training," Fūryū said. "Pat yourselves on the back!"

The room was eerily silent, and no one moved a muscle.

"…Never mind that. Anyway, I and Akemi will be proctoring this group's First Exam. If you pass, you'll immediately begin your Second Stage training."

"As you know, there are ten stages total to become a Pairon," Akemi said. "When you pass this exam, they'll be nine stages left. Then you must pass the Final Exam. which means that you'll officially become a Pairon in the next four and a half years."

Fūryū smiled and said, "Now, let's do a rollcall!"

"Chiasa Enoki."

"Present!" a lovely woman with blonde-to-orange hair said. She had light maroon eyes, and an olive complexion.

"Goro Onohara."

"Yep!" a burly weightlifter said. He had light brown eyes, and a dark olive complexion.

"Shinji Kitagawa."

"That's me," a bald man who looked to be a monk said. He had dark brown eyes, and a light complexion.

"Omoikitta Akagi."

"Here," Omoikitta said.

"Satoshi Ueno."

An attractive man with blue slicked back hair raised his hand. He had dark blue eyes, and a light tan complexion.

"Hiroshi Okuda."

"Here!" a man with spiky black hair said. He had brown eyes, and a light complexion.

Omoikitta recalled how terrified the man was after encountering Muzan and Mujōna Kibutsuji, and how he strongly smelled of urine.

Hiroshi wants to be a Pairon? Who could've guessed? …Oh yeah, his friends were murdered right in front of him.

Hiroshi's situation reminded her of her very own, so she understood.

"Mushanokoji Yamanoue."

"Here," a short man with a said. He had light brown eyes and dark blonde hair.

"Ken'Ichi Takayama."

A man wearing a red silk headwrap nodded. His eyes were an icy blue, and he had a dark complexion.

"Izumi Hanabatake."

"Here," a pretty woman with braids said. Her eyes were a pale lavender, and she had deep brown complexion.

As she passed by each of them, Akemi said, "It takes strength, courage, and bravery to become a Pairon. When Master Yoriichi-sama selected each of you, he saw potential. Today, I want all of you to find it within yourselves to prove your worth!"

"Osu!"

Then Fūryū opened the door to another chamber, revealing the most complex obstacle course anyone had ever seen with a giant pool beneath it. The course was full of twists and turns, moving platforms, ladders, ropes, and more.

The trainees gasped and audibly gulped at the sight. Out of the corner of her eye, Omoikitta saw Ken'Ichi smirk and crack his knuckles. "This will be a piece of cake," he chuckled to himself.

The trainees stood at the starting line and stretched.

"Everyone must complete this course in two minutes, so you must make haste," Fūryū said. "Any questions?"

Satoshi raised his hand and said, "Yeah, I got a question. We can push people, right?"

"Yes, you can."

"Hell yeah!" Goro bellowed.

Shinji felt lightheaded and looked as if he was about to faint. "Don't you think that's a little… harsh?"

"If you think this is harsh, then wait until you see what a demon will do to you. Now, prepare yourselves!" Akemi yelled at the top of her lungs. "...Ready, set, go!"

✧FIRST EXAM

The trainees bolted past the starting line and embarked the perilous obstacle course. Satoshi gunned for Shinji and knocked him off the platform without mercy.

"Shinji, you're out!" Akemi yelled.

The monk fell into the pool and was ordered to swim back to the start, groaning.

Omoikitta and the others jumped from platform to platform, then swung on ropes to the next section.

Out of the corner of her eye, Omoikitta saw Goro swinging on some on the ropes in the middle as if he was waiting for something.

Or someone.

Standing on the moving platform before the rope section was Mushanokoji and Hiroshi. The two men gawked at the large, formidable man waiting for them.

I've got to help them!

Omoikitta started to confront Goro, but Ken'Ichi touched her shoulder. Then her arm moved on its own and slapped him across his face. The slap was so intense, it knocked him off the platform and into the pool below.

"Ken'Ichi, you're disqualified!"

"Oh my God!" Omoikitta gasped. "Oh my God, I'm so sorry, Ken'Ichi!"

Ken'Ichi poked his head out of the water, scowling. "Oh, fuck this."

Goro guffawed and hollered at the sight. "Better luck next time, pretty boy!" Then he turned to Mushanokoji and Hiroshi and said, "Hurry the hell up, you two!"

"How isn't this cheating?" Mushanokoji shouted. "Look at this giant!"

"He's… actually not that big," Hiroshi said. "You're just short."

"Dude, you're supposed to be on my side!"

As Hiroshi and Mushanokoji spoke, Goro rapidly swung back and forth on his rope and when he gained enough momentum, he leapt on their platform.

Goro's impressively muscular build was full of pure, heavy muscle and made the platform shake. Hiroshi and Mushanokoji fell into the pool below and screamed on the way down.

"Two down, four to go!" Goro laughed.

The trainees continued sprinting through the obstacle course. They jumped and somersaulted through hoops, climbed ladders, and dodged obstacles.

Soon, they neared the finish line.

I'm so close to the finish line!

Once he got close enough, Satoshi casually walked and ran his fingers through his hair as he crossed the finish line.

"Nice, Satoshi! First place!"

Chiasa crossed the finish line faster than light itself, her fiery hair blowing in the wind. "Yes!"

"Chiasa, second place!"

Izumi did a series of backflips as she crossed the finish line.

"Izumi, third place!"

I'm going to make it!

I have to!

Smirking, Goro dashed past Omoikitta and said, "Uh oh, looks like you're the last one!"

"Goro, fourth place!"

"Less than fifteen seconds remain, Omoikitta!" Akemi yelled. "I hope you can make it!"

Fifteen seconds? I don't have enough time!

Omoikitta burst into a sprint and accidently got the leg that had just healed caught in one of the rope traps. The rope sprained her leg and moved the fragile bone out of place.

{Crack.}

"Ten seconds!"

Omoikitta only heard the sound of her pounding heart and not the sound of her leg cracking. Adrenaline flowed through her veins and prevented her from feeling any pain.

"Five seconds!"

As she neared the finish line, her leg went limp. Omoikitta immediately crumbled to the ground mere inches away from the finish line.

"Three seconds!"

All of the sounds and commotion became terribly muffled.

…No. I'm right here.

I'm right fucking here!

"Pathetic. You're truly pathetic, Omoikitta," a voice said in the back of her mind as clear as day.

…W-who is that?

Through cloudy vision, Omoikitta groggily looked up and saw Mujōna standing over her.

You.

"Yes, it's me," Mujōna laughed, baring her fangs. "And it's you; right on the ground where you belong. Although, I would prefer you kneeling before me instead."

A pure rage festered within Omoikitta's entire being and crept up her throat like bile. "…Y-you," she whispered.

Images and visions of Deki, Takumashī, and Sumāto flooded her mind.

My friends… you killed and took my friends.

"Yes, I did," Mujōna said. "But I'm not to blame. Akaza is."

How the hell is Akaza to blame for this?

Mujōna sighed, "I don't know, you tell me. I'm only a figment of your imagination anyway."

The world around Omoikitta faded away and the only thing she could see was Mujōna and the finish line. The finish line slowly moved further and further away.

Mujōna crouched beside Omoikitta and ran her sharp, white claws through her hair. "Trying to defeat I and Muzan is pointless, anyway. Even if you could cross the finish line, which you can't, that'll never be enough."

…No.

"You're so pitiful, Omoikitta. You couldn't even save your friends."

No… I'm not pitiful, useless, or whatever you say!

"Says the woman on the floor," Mujōna mocked. "Just give up, Omoikitta."

…No.

Never.

I'll never give up!

Akemi opened her mouth and said, "Omoikitta, you're dis—"

A newfound strength emerged within Omoikitta, and she shot up and crossed the finish line.

Goro scowled and yelled, "Hey, there's no way that she made it, right? Right?"

Fūryū glanced at Akemi, who smiled at her. "Well, I didn't finish what I was going to say…"

"Omoikitta, fifth place!" Fūryū yelled. "Congratulations!"

Upon hearing that, Goro's jaw dropped and he almost toppled over. "…No fucking way is this legit. She didn't cross it in time!"

"Relax, Goro," Satoshi said, pointing at Omoikitta's leg. "She earned it."

Omoikitta looked down and saw that her leg was an angry, furious red and was twisted beyond belief. The excruciating pain hit her all at once and made her faint.

Izumi came to Omoikitta's rescue and held her. Two nurses quickly came and helped the unconscious woman into a wheelchair.

"She needs to be in the infirmary," one of the nurses said.

Upon hearing that, Omoikitta's jade green eyes shot wide open. "No. No infirmary, please!"

The nurses stared at her questionably, perplexed. "But ma'am, your leg is—"

"Fūryū!" Omoikitta howled as she broke away from the nurses' grasp and wheeled to Akemi and Fūryū. "Let me see Akaza!"

"Omoikitta, I've already told you that you won't be able to see him," Fūryū sighed. "And you should be in the infirmary!"

"Fūryū, please let me see him just this once!"

"But he still hasn't awakened yet. Akaza will awaken in his own time and—"

"Please, Fūryū! I'm begging you!" she shouted, her face reddening. "Akaza is a good friend of mine and I won't rest until I see him!"

The loud commotion made the others gawk and stare at them, which made Fūryū uncomfortable. "…Fine! But just this once, Omoikitta!"

Beaming, Omoikitta's face glowed with joy as she yelled, "Thank you, Fūryū! You're an angel!"

Then she began to leave, but Hiroshi stopped her. "Omoikitta!" he cried.

"Hey, Hiroshi," she said. "I'm... sorry that you didn't pass the First Exam."

Hiroshi snorted and said, "Yeah, I kind of thought I wouldn't... But since you did, could I ask a favor of you?"

"Sure. What is it?"

With a deathly serious expression upon his face, he said, "I need you to promise me that you'll stop at nothing until Muzan and Mujōna are dead."

Omoikitta squeezed his hand and nodded. "I promise, Hiroshi. I promise."


FŪRYŪ

A smile spread across Fūryū's lovely face as she blushed.

…An angel. She called me an angel.

"Hey, Fūryū, would you like for me to speak with Yoriichi-sama?" Akemi asked as she perfected the two poms in her hair.

"…No, I'll handle it Akemi. You should go handle the other Pairons."

"Got it. See you in a bit," she laughed.


OMOIKITTA

Omoikitta wheeled through the many halls of The Bushi Temple and arrived at Akaza's chamber. There, she saw the demon laying upon a futon with a nurse beside him.

The nurse looked at her and said, "Hello, but you can't be in here. Only medical—"

"Fūryū gave me permission, so please leave," she interjected.

The nurse pursed her lips and left the chamber.

Omoikitta wheeled to the sleeping demon and noticed that his hair was a striking pink and the rest of him was in his human form.

Omoikitta ignored the pain in her leg and laid beside him. "...Akaza, I actually passed the First Exam. I don't know how, but I did," she sheepishly laughed.

A pained, sorrowful expression appeared upon her face because she knew that the demon couldn't answer.

She carefully tucked him in the blanket and stared at him. "…You really need to wake up, Akaza. You can't save Koyuki if you're sleeping like this."

Silence.

"Koyuki... She needs you."

Silence.

"…I need you!"

Omoikitta burst into tears and cried into the blanket. Her sobs and Akaza's soft, steady breathing were the only sounds heard.


FŪRYŪ

Fūryū rushed down the halls and entered a Japanese zen chamber. There, she saw Yoriichi mediating with one of his students.

Fūryū slowly approached them and grunted softly to catch their attention. "Master Yoriichi-sama and Takeo?"

The two men stopped mediating and stared at her, sending shivers down her spine.

"What is it, Fūryū?" Takeo asked. The handsome man had a brown complexion, and the most beautiful, striking gold eyes anyone had ever seen. A cloud marking was upon the side of his face because he had unlocked his full powers a little while back.

Takeo Matsuda, The Cloud Pairon; Yoriichi-sama's star pupil, and second in command of The Pairons.

"…I just wanted to tell you two that Omoikitta has passed the First Exam," she whispered.

"Just as I expected!" he laughed. "Perhaps she should have a try at the Seinaru Blade earlier than we thought, huh, Yoriichi-sama?"

Yoriichi stared blanky at him.

"Anyway, thanks, Fūryū."

Fūryū nodded, then shakily left the chamber.


YORIICHI

Yoriichi gave Takeo a blank stare, never taking his eyes off him.

"Come on, it was just a joke," Takeo laughed. "Live a little."

"It wasn't... humorous," Yoriichi said dully.

"Look, I know how you feel about that sword but it's a piece of work. Not even I can touch it, and I've been under your wing for six years."

A vision of thirteen-year-old Takeo Matsuda appeared in Yoriichi's mind, which made him smile faintly. "…Yes," he said.

Takeo smiled triumphantly and said, "Pretty soon, I'll be able to wield that blade and fight alongside you, Yoriichi-sama."

One day.

Yoriichi nodded and the two continued mediating in a peaceful, tranquil silence.


MUZAN

The Kibutsuji Family had stayed in The Eien no Kyūden for six months, and the twins have already started walking.

The twins teetered and tottered around the entire palace and leaned against walls for support. Each day, they improved little by little, and would even surprise their parents by walking upon the ceilings.

Mugoi and Mujihi had a habit of sleeping with their parents in bed. Each night, they would knock and scratch upon the sliding doors until it opened for them. Then they would crawl and lay between them.

Because Muzan was the only one who didn't require slumber, he would try to leave after a while, but the twins would awaken and begin to whimper.

The only time he could escape was when they were in a deep sleep.

Muzan watched as Mujōna, Mugoi, and Mujihi slept ever so peacefully together. The three sleeping demons looked beautiful with serene, angelic expressions upon their faces.

Perfect.

Absolutely, truly, utterly perfect.

This is the perfection that I've always sought for.

The Demon Lord quietly left the chamber and walked through the palace's halls that twisted and turned with his every step.

Soon, he arrived at one of their courtyards and sat upon the engawa. Muzan stared at the night sky above, which became filled with twinkling stars because he willed it.

Mujōna.

The Demon Lord smiled at the thought of the beautiful woman who is not only his mate, but the mother of his children.

FLASHBACK:

After spending the day in The Dimensional Infinity Fortress, Muzan returned to his luxurious townhouse to see his 'pet.' He was particularly happy to see her and yearned for her presence the entire day.

Muzan opened the door and entered a dark house, but he saw just fine with his superior vision. There, he saw his 'pet' hiding near the dining room.

The Demon Lord smirked mischievously and played along with her games. "Himari? Are you here? Hm…"

As he neared the kitchen, Himari turned on the lights and exclaimed, "Surprise!" She motioned at the dining table, which had dishes of rice, tempura, and kobocha squash.

Muzan immediately noticed that her eyes were slightly red and puffy as if she had been—

Crying? What has upset her?

Himari ran to into his embrace and lovingly rubbed against him. "I stayed up and made us dinner, Tsukihiko! I hope you don't mind."

"Himari, I am pleased and very grateful," he chuckled. Then he caught the scent of multiple men from her, which alarmed him.

…Well, she seems alright. It's clear that she went out today, so the scent of others is expected.

"It looks delicious, Himari. Let's eat."

Muzan and Himari sat across from each other at the dining table. Himari watched him as he ate with eagerness and anxiety in her glimmering brown eyes.

He lifted a questioning eyebrow and said, "Is something the matter, Himari?"

"No, of course not, Tsukihiko. It's just that I've— You've never eaten any of the food I made, and I'm kind of nervous…"

"Well, you shouldn't be nervous," he said. "This repast of yours is very palatable, and you must take pride in your work."

This is mediocre at best. Perhaps I should teach her how to cook myself.

Himari gasped at his words, her brown cheeks turning a bright rouge. "…Tsukihiko, I— You're so kind and sweet!" she gushed. Then she began to ravenously devour her meal and smiled between mouthfuls.

Did this woman starve herself while she waited for my return?

…Such dedication and devotion.

It seems that I don't need to train her to serve me as much as I thought.

After scarfing down a few onigiris, Himari said, "So, how was your day?"

"It was tedious, like usual. I'd prefer not to reminisce about my day, but I'd like to hear about yours."

"Oh!" she gasped, blushing. "Well, I didn't really do much. I stayed here and slept for most of the day…" Himari's nose wiggled frantically, which was a telltale sign of her being stressed.

Or lying.

The scent of others still lingers on her, so she clearly left the house. This little hellcat fibs about the most insignificant things.

Himari eyes darted back and forth as she thought of the perfect white lie. Just as she opened her mouth to speak, the sound of her phone ringing interrupted her.

The phone rang for what seemed like an eternity, then stopped.

"Now, as I was saying, I—"

The phone began to incessantly ring again.

Muzan stared at the phone, which was sitting on top of a counter. "Who is that?" he asked.

"It's no one," she said, anxiety written all over her face.

The phone stopped, then began to ring again. Its noisy ringtone blared all throughout the house, which was deathly quiet.

Muzan glanced at her, then walked towards to the phone.

"Tsukihiko, don't—"

The Demon Lord stared at the unknown caller ID and immediately knew who it was.

Hakujaku.

Then he angrily to turned her and said, "Why is your father still calling you? Have you spoke to him?"

"No, I haven't, Tsukihiko!"

"Then why is he calling you, Himari?"

"…I—I don't know! This is the first time he's contacted me!" she cried. Himari's nose wiggled even faster.

How dare she lie to me so brazenly? I'll have to tame this unruly vixen soon!

"Tell me your password," he sighed, a vein throbbing upon his forehead.

Himari shook her head and said, "Why? That's my phone."

"Himari, tell me your password," he said in a low, dark voice.

"…S-seven-two-nine-four," she whispered, her full lips quivering. Fear, confusion, and anxiety was casted all over her angelic face.

Then he unlocked her phone and checked the phone history. There, he saw the countless times Hakujaku tried to reach her.

Hidden in the overwhelming sea of missed calls was one answered call that lasted for over two minutes.

Muzan's eyes widened beyond belief as he stalked closer to her. He held the phone to her face and said, "What the hell is this?"

Tears welled in her eyes as she said, "I'm sorry, Tsukihiko! I'm really sorry!"

"I told you not to speak to him!" he growled. "Do you not recall how he humiliated me at that horrid wedding, Himari?"

"I do remember, and I'm sorry!" she sobbed. "P-please forgive me, Tsukihiko!"

The Demon Lord internally smirked at her reactions. His 'pet' begging for his mercy filled him with sadistic delight.

With a disingenuous sorrowful expression, he said, "Himari, do you want to… leave me?"

Himari burst into even more tears and choked between sobs. "N-no, Tsukihiko. Never! I never want to leave you!"

"But it seems that you do, Himari," he sighed. "I'll have a cab arranged for you shortly."

Muzan went upstairs to her bedroom and she followed him, sobbing. Himari grabbed his arm and wailed, "No! Please don't!"

"It seems that I was wrong about you," he sighed. "I thought you were the one for me, but it seems that I made a grave mistake. I'm disappointed, Himari."

Upon hearing that, Himari held onto him even tighter, her nails practically piercing his flesh. "No! P-please don't say such a thing, Tsukihiko!" As he neatly folded her clothes into a suitcase, she clung to him.

Seeing her in such a desperate state made him reluctantly feel twinges in all seven of his hearts, but aroused him as well. The urge to slam her on the floor and indulge in his demonic, carnal desires ached relentlessly.

Muzan wanted to sink his fangs into her thighs and lash at her privates with his tongue, but he composed himself.

No. I'll take her when the time is right. I want her to beg for my touch and go mad with lust for me.

An enticing vision of Himari sprawled upon his bed appeared in his mind. Oh, how she would be so tender, wet, and open just for him.

Only for him.

Mine.

Muzan consoled and pulled her in his muscular arms, her sobs music to his ears. As he deeply inhaled her vanilla scented hair, he cooed, "That man wants to do nothing but harm you even further, yet you still remain in contact with him. He has abandoned you and the Maeda-Kato name isn't yours any longer, Himari."

"Y-yes, I know," she cried, sniffling.

"Since you live with me, it is only reasonable for you to take my surname." Then he cupped her face and gazed into the depths of her entire being. "You are now Himari Kobayashi. Do you understand, Himari?"

"Yes. I understand, Tsukihiko." Himari's brown eyes glimmered ever so beautifully in the light, and her ethereal, delicate features became even more angelically beautiful.

Soon, I will convert her and mold her into a high-ranking demon. Perhaps she'll even become an Upper Moon.

Then he gazed at her even longer and saw something else within her glittering brown eyes.

Yet, this woman means much more to me than just some subordinate. I'm fond of her and I truly enjoy her company.

I think that I'd like to spend the rest of eternity with her…

Yes. I do want her by my side... forever.

…It seems that this is beautiful creature is my mate. I shall claim her when the time is right.

I must make it my priority to help her reach her true potential as a demon, then make her mine.

She will bear the Kibutsuji surname and serve me for the rest of time.

"Tsukihiko, I want to stay here with you! If it wasn't for you, I'd probably be forced to sell myself to survive! You know what they do to women like me!" Himari burst into tears and buried her face in his chest, sobbing loudly.

Muzan ran his fingers through her long, curly hair, and relished her emotions. "Calm down, Himari," he sighed.

The woman shook her head and sobbed hysterically against him, which inadvertently caused the sleeve of her sweater to roll down.

The Demon Lord immediately noticed some slight bruising on her arm. A low growl crept up his throat upon the realization.

…That's why I smelled the scent of multiple men so strongly! How dare they lay their hands on my pet?

If she's covered in bruises, I want them to be from me.

If she's crying, I want it to be because of me.

I must handle this!

The Demon Lord gently, but firmly, grabbed her arm and snarled, "Tell me what happened!"

Himari winced and was taken aback by his sudden intensity. "…N-nothing, Tsukihiko. I'm fine."

"This doesn't look fine to me! Who hurt you?"

"…N-no one hurt me. I— I banged my arm against the door," she said softly, her nose wiggling frantically.

This woman lies to me so causally! Once she's converted, I'll surely teach her to behave!

"Tell me what happened, or I will send for your return to your father!" he roared.

Tears streaming down her cheeks, she said, "…O-okay. I-I lied to you earlier, Tsukihiko. I didn't stay here all day; I went out not too long ago. Some men… they cornered me and— Oh, I was so scared, Tsukihiko!"

The Demon Lord's face softened, and he embraced her tightly.

As she bawled in his arms, she wailed, "T-they said that they were going to k-kidnap me and turn me into an Oiran, Tsukihiko!"

Muzan concentrated on the mingling scents of the perpetrators and located them just only miles away. Then he made her lay down and tucked her in.

He moved her hair out of her face and said, "Everything will be alright, Himari. You mustn't worry about a thing any longer. Get some rest."

Himari shakily nodded and closed her eyes, trembling. As she fell asleep, Muzan sat in a chair and watched her from afar.

Once she was in a deep slumber, he left the house to handle a few matters.

Muzan stood before a group of middle-ranking demons in the middle of the forest. The lesser demons kneeled before The Supreme Demon.

"Each of you must watch over and protect the human at all times. If she goes out during the day, shield yourself from the Sun and follow her. If she is harmed in the slightest, your punishment will surely surpass that of burning from sunlight," he boomed.

"Yes, My Lord," they said in unison. Then they leapt and darted through the trees to the luxurious townhouse area Himari was in.

Muzan walked through the bustling streets of Tokyo, a pitch-black starless sky above him. He ignored the innumerable quantity of unsuspecting humans and only focused on the scents of the three men who touched Himari.

It is no surprise that a woman of her beauty would be targeted by such worthless, revolting scoundrels.

I should've ordered for her protection sooner. How foolish of me to not think as such.

This is… my fault.

The Demon Lord smirked as he recalled that there was bloody tissue under her nails, which meant that she did defend herself.

My pet did defend herself in some degree which helped with her escape. This is because of the time I injected a drop my essence within her mind.

Perhaps I should take even further precautions and inject her with larger amounts of my essence.

…But the purity she has within will surely be tainted, and I don't want that just yet.

I'll properly corrupt her when I claim her. Until then, I will protect her purity.

Soon, The Demon Lord found the three men drinking in a dark alley near a pub. Two other men who had nothing to do with what happened were drinking with them.

Muzan approached them, his fedora and the moonlight casting a shadow against his face.

Before they could even react, they were slashed and impaled by deathly sharp appendages. Gore and intestines drenched the ally and rained upon the ground.

Once the brutal slaughter was complete, Muzan tidied himself and grimaced at the speck of blood on his collar.

Dirty.

I must return and change into something much more suitable and pristine.

PRESENT:

Muzan grinned maliciously at the sweet memory, his pupils dilating with pleasure.

Even though she is more than capable of defending herself, I still must protect her. Although, I have to say that I did an exceedingly remarkable job when I created her.

Yes. She truly is my greatest creation.

With a devious smirk, he went into a mediative state and entered his subconscious.


TAMAYO

Tamayo was reduced to a mere disembodied head that floated in place and stared at the dark, empty abyss within the depths of Muzan Kibutsuji's subconscious. The Demon Lord had relocated her to the bleak, desolate location out of spite.

How long had she been in there? A week? A month? A year? She didn't know. Time moved differently in the demon realm, let alone within one's subconscious.

The continuous screams of the souls Muzan had trapped and devoured constantly rang in her ears. To keep her sanity, she reminisced of pleasant memories with Yushiro and hummed her favorite melody; 'Sakura, sakura.'

Oh, Yushiro. I hope that you're alright.

Suddenly, she felt a familiar, ominous presence and her eyes shot wide open.

Muzan.

Muzan appeared before her and let her head hover above his palm. Although his crimson eyes were callous and intense as usual, there was a subtle softness beneath them.

"Tamayo," he said. "How are you?"

Seething, Tamayo gritted her fangs and growled at him. "Why are you here?"

"I've just came to check on you," he said with a disingenuous smile. "Also, Yushiro is in the same condition as you. His physical body has surely deteriorated, but I have his soul confined in another area."

Tamayo's face reluctantly softened upon hearing about Yushiro. "…What do you want from me, Muzan? Because I have nothing left. You drained me dry!"

"Why must you be so stubborn, Tamayo? I'm only here because I was worried about your condition. I haven't seen you in ages."

"H-how long… have I been in here?" she asked.

"For almost two years," he said dully.

Upon hearing that, Tamayo's eyes widened beyond belief. "Two years? Just let me out of here, Muzan!"

"No."

"Why the hell not?"

"Because this is your punishment for teaming with the Demon Slayers!" he hissed. "You've always been a blasphemous traitor, but joining forces with the Hashiras was the last straw!"

"I had a feeling they wouldn't succeed in killing you, Muzan. You're like a cockroach from the depths of Hell!" she roared. "But they will slay you eventually!"

Muzan's plum red eyes lit up with an inexplicable light, and a broad grin spread across his handsome face.

'Are you sure about that, Tamayo?'

Hearing Muzan's deep, sensual voice in her mind made her physically ill. Then a mental image of the fallen Hashiras appeared in her mind, which made her gasp.

…Oh my God. This can't be. This can't be true!

It just can't!

"Oh, but it is, Tamayo," he chuckled darkly. "Not only have the slayers been converted, but they're under my wife's control. She leads them and they exist to serve her; their Queen."

A mental vision of Mujōna speaking to the fallen slayers, who were kneeling before her, appeared in her mind. Each of them looked overwhelmingly obedient and submissive.

Mental images of the beautiful Mujōna Kibutsuji flooded Tamayo's mind, which made her eyes water and her face turn red.

"Isn't she just divine?" he asked, boasting. "My wife is a brilliantly ambitious, beautiful, remarkable demon; she's truly my greatest creation."

Tamayo immediately noticed that Mujōna looked much different from the last time she saw her. Her eyes had become colder and had a dark, malicious tint that mimicked that of Muzan's.

The Demon Lord smirked and said, "Not only did she help me conquer the Sun and take down the Hashiras, but she also bore me children."

Tamayo looked as if her eyes were about to fall out of their sockets when a mental vision of Mujōna nursing two infants appeared in her mind.

The infants ravenously suckled her breasts and although their faces were out of view, something told Tamayo that they looked just like their father.

And that terrified her.

I-I don't understand how any of this is possible! Demons are incapable of procreation, yet those two are so very real!

"Demons are incapable of procreation except I and Mujōna," he said. "There are many assumptions as to how she was able to conceive, but my personal belief is that it's because she's the right woman for me. Isn't the saying something like, 'love is always the answer?'"

Breathing heavily, Tamayo's enraged growls gradually turned into soft whimpers. The image of Mujōna was stained in her mind, and she couldn't get it out of her head.

Through clenched fangs and a low, dark voice, she growled, "…What did you do to her?"

The Demon Lord raised a questioning eyebrow. "Hm?"

"What did you do to her?"

"To who?"

"You know exactly who I'm taking about!"

Perplexed, he said, "Are you referring to my wife?"

"Yes!" she screeched. "You manipulated that poor woman!"

Muzan's face contorted with anger and his fangs extended. "How dare you insinuate that I did such a thing to my wife? Do you honestly believe that it's impossible for someone to love me and for me to love them back? Shame on you, Tamayo."

"You're incapable of loving anyone but yourself, Muzan!"

"Maybe before, but not any longer. I don't have to explain myself to the likes of you anyway!" he hissed. "And before you even say it, I'm not holding her hostage and she can leave at free will."

"But if she does leave, you'll kill her or worse, you'll absorb her just like you've done to me!"

A seemingly genuine expression of shock crossed his face. "…I'd never do such a thing, Tamayo. Not to her."

"Muzan, you're repulsive!" she spat. "You're nothing but a filthy man who destroyed that woman's mind to fit your own needs and desires. I don't know how she was able to birth two of your demon spawns, but I know that it's not natural!"

Sorrow flashed in his crimson eyes, but only for a moment. "I did not destroy her mind or harm her in any shape or form," he said dully.

A tense, sullen silence loomed in the air until she softly said, "...It seems that you truly love her."

Then a grim smile spread across Tamayo's face as she said, "I hope that she uses your love for her... as another way to destroy you."

A low growl crept up his throat at her words. "My wife wouldn't dare do such a thing, Tamayo! I've had enough of your absurdity so I must depart. By the way, you're staying here for the rest of eternity."

Muzan began to leave, but Tamayo stopped him. "When will you tell her about me?" she asked.

I know that you've erased her memory because you would do such a thing, Muzan.

Upon hearing that, Muzan's muscles tensed and he stopped dead in his tracks.

In a low, dark voice filled with certainty and malicious intent, he said, "Mujōna will never know of your existence, and I'll make sure of it."

Then he vanished.

Now alone, Tamayo blanky stared at the infinite space that surrounded her.

That poor woman. I should've saved her when I had the chance, now look at her; corrupted in such horrid ways, I doubt she even remembers who she used to be.

When I escaped from Muzan's grasp, I vowed to help end his life and save everyone who's trapped in his web.

But I failed her.

I failed Himari.

I should've done more. She was right there in front of me.

Instead of seeking meaningless information from her, I should've extended my hand to her.

...Someone has to take the Hashira's place and kill Muzan.

Someone just has to.


MUZAN

Growling gutturally, Muzan angrily left his subconscious and a sheer rage swelled within him.

Damn that fucking woman! I ought to do away with her, but that'll do nothing but give her satisfaction!

How dare she accuse me of manipulating my wife? Yes, I gave her ample amounts of my essence, but that wasn't manipulation; that was clarity.

Mujōna was a woman who was destined to sell her body to hordes of men, but I intercepted her fate. I took her in and helped her reach her true potential, and made her into a Queen.

My Queen.

And even through all that, Tamayo still unjustly loathes my very existence! Alas, jealously would do that to a woman.

If only that harlot knew of the divine, miraculous things my Mujōna is capable of.

What an envious shrew that Tamayo is!

The Demon Lord's anger immediately dissipated upon seeing his children staring at him from afar. The twins approached and sat beside him, clutching their favorite plush toys.

"Futari wa nemuremasen ka?" Muzan asked.

✧TRANSLATION: "Are you two unable to rest?" Muzan asked.

The twins nodded and leaned against him. The Demon Lord held them even closer, and they all stared at the twinkling stars above.

I am foolish to indulge in such trivial matters when I have these three in my life. My only priority should be them at all times.

We shall stay here for a while and bond undisturbed.

Muzan looked down and smiled at the two little boys, who's eyes were filled to the brim with wonder. The peaceful, silent sense of content was felt between all of them.

This is… just how it should be.

THE END