Demon of the Sun

by euphoric image

Demon. Monster. Traitor. Those were all words used to describe Kamado Tanjirou. And that was perfectly understandable. After all, even though he was kind to everyone, a demon trained in the Breath of the Sun who hunts down the Twelve Demon Moons was sure to strike fear into the hearts of demons and slayers alike. Personally, though, he preferred older brother.

4. Chapter 4

Approximately a month ago.

"Tomioka Giyuu, do you have anything to say in your defense?" Kagaya asked. For once, his serene smile wasn't on his face; instead, he was frowning, imploring Giyuu with sightless eyes to say something, anything.

Giyuu remained silent as he knelt before him.

"Nothing to say?" Shinazugawa Sanemi, the Wind Pillar, snarled. "You filthy demon-loving traitor. I say we make an example out of him. Behead him in front of the Demon Slayer Corps."

"Oh ho! A public execution?" Uzui Tengen, the Sound Pillar, perked up. "That sounds grandiose indeed. In that case, I'll be glad to be the one to decapitate him with grandeur. I will show you the most beautiful blood splashes the world has ever seen. I'm talking max grandeur here."

"Whoever is the one to do it, they must give it their all!" Rengoku Kyojurou, the Flame Pillar, proclaimed determinedly. "Make sure it is a death that will be remembered!"

"Umm..." Kanroji Mitsuri, the Love Pillar, spoke up hesitantly. "We don't... have to kill Tomioka... right? Can't we just punish him a little?"

Iguro Obanai, the Serpent Pillar, appeared to be conflicted between agreeing with her and arguing against her. Thankfully, Sanemi spoke up for him.

"Huh? Of course we have to kill this bastard!" he shouted. "Not only did he let two demons live, but he also attacked a fellow Pillar!" He gestured at Shinobu, who had bandages wrapped around her left arm. "There has never been a more blatant violation of the code before in all of history!"

Shinobu's face was uncharacteristically blank as she answered. "It was just a scratch," she said. "I made sure his injuries were a lot worse than mine."

Indeed, Giyuu had bandages wrapped around his torso, shoulder, and right leg. He had been holding back in the fight; his only purpose had been to stall.

Now that had been awkward - after Giyuu had surrendered the fight once the two demons were too far away to chase, Shinobu had still bandaged him up, emitting a menacing aura the entire time. Of course, she did rub some poison into his wounds so they would sting like crazy, but it was just an honest accident.

To Obanai's objections, Giyuu was also unrestrained since he had come without resisting.

Tokitou Muichirou, the Mist Pillar, vacantly gazed up at the sky. Those clouds look pretty...

"The poor soul," Himejima Gyomei, the Stone Pillar, murmured as tears ran down his face. "I never thought Tomioka would descend upon the path of darkness. Let us put him out of his misery before he falls even further. Namu Amida Butsu."

"The only question is why," Shinobu said, her stare piercing into Giyuu. He refused to look at her. "Why would he fight on the behalf of two demons? Why would he let two demons live?"

Mitsuri perked up. "Shinobu's right! Giyuu's been our trusted ally for a long time. He must have had a good reason, right?"

Sanemi snorted. "Please. There is not a single good reason in the world to save demons." He clenched his fist tightly. "Just accept the fact that he betrayed us."

"Back when I was a monk, I've seen even the most noble and virtuous of people turn their backs on good and become corrupted," Himejima said regretfully. "When you face the darkness every day, sometimes, it becomes a part of you."

"There is no use in pointlessly arguing amongst ourselves," Uzui cut in. "It's far too unsightly. Let us hear what Tomioka has to say and then decide."

There was a long moment of silence as the Pillars awaited his response.

Giyuu said nothing. Indeed, the sheer calm and serenity he exuded was impressive, as if he was peacefully relaxing in an aesthetic garden instead of facing imminent death.

Uzui clenched his fist against his heart, briefly overcome by emotions. "While Tomioka may have violated the code, at least he's doing it with maximum grandeur," he uttered. "That, I can respect."

"My children, I urge you to reconsider," Kagaya spoke. "There is no need for an execution."

"I respectfully disagree!" Rengoku declared. "We Pillars are supposed to be the leaders of the Demon Slayer Corps. As such, we must be held to a higher standard than the others. Besides, what if those two demons go and kill even more people? Tomioka must take responsibility."

"I'm grandiosely opposed as well!" Uzui spoke, pointing a thumb at himself. "If Tomioka can't prove that he had a justifiable reason, then he must receive the most grandiose punishment there is."

"Ah. Even if you desire Tomioka to live," Himejima said, tears flowing down his face, "I'm afraid I must oppose you on this matter. Let us take pity on his poor soul."

"Death is the only thing scum like him deserves," Sanemi growled. "I respectfully request that we execute him so nobody would ever even think of helping a demon again!"

"Kill him," Obanai said flatly. "There is no way I can trust him after the stunt he pulled."

"I - I think we should let Tomioka live," Kanroji said hesitantly. "We can give him a different punishment."

"I'm fine either way," Muichirou said tonelessly. "I'll just forget anyway..."

Shinobu was silent for a moment as she gazed at Giyuu. Then, she nodded. "We have rules," she intoned quietly. "And Tomioka broke them. Pillar or not, he has to face the consequences." She then hesitated. "Perhaps death may be too harsh, however. As Mitsuri said, we can give him a different punishment."

Giyuu showed no outward reaction.

"A compromise, then," Kagaya decided with a tone of finality. "We shall hold off on the decision for now." The Pillars erupted into objections, but he simply raised his finger to his nose and they all quieted instantly. "Giyuu shall be placed under house arrest for a month," he continued. "After that, if no further evidence is uncovered, then we shall proceed."

Evidently, Kagaya was hoping that in that month, he would be able to come up with some way to salvage the situation.

"Just one moment," Sanemi growled. "What if he's working with Kibutsuji Muzan?"

All the Pillars tensed up.

Giyuu spoke for the first time since the meeting began. "I'm not," he stated calmly.

Sanemi scoffed. "And you expect us to believe that?"

"I believe him," Shinobu said. "Besides, if Tomioka had met Kibutsuji Muzan before, then he would've been turned into a demon."

Himejima nodded. "I agree. Whatever reason Tomioka decided to betray us, it wasn't because of Kibutsuji Muzan."

"Tch," Sanemi crossed his arms but let the issue go. "Fine."

"Are we in agreement, then?" Kagaya asked.

There was a muttering of agreement.

Once Himejima and Sanemi returned from restraining and escorting Giyuu away, Kagaya sighed. "Now that we have that unpleasant matter finished, let us move onto other topics. First off, we need to schedule funerals for all the demon slayers that perished..."

XxX

Kagaya sipped his tea, a thoughtful expression on his face. Giyuu sat across from him, expressionless. They were alone in the room, the meeting having already been finished and the Pillars having left.

"They're truly remarkable, aren't they?" Kagaya said after a long moment. Giyuu furrowed his brow in confusion. "Tanjirou and Nezuko, I mean. Two demons that have never harmed a human before."

Giyuu's eyes widened slightly when he realized he'd never told Kagaya their names. "How do you - "

Kagaya smiled serenely. "I have my ways," he answered. "I know you didn't betray us, Giyuu."

And perhaps it was the incredible stress of the day, of being condemned by his allies and nearly executed, or perhaps it was the sheer unshakable faith in Kagaya's tone, but whatever the case, emotions surged up within Giyuu, momentarily overwhelming him. He didn't tear up - he was no longer that crybaby from so long ago - but he did have to take several seconds before he was confident he could speak again without his voice wavering.

"Thank you," Giyuu bowed his head.

"The only problem is the other Pillars," and Kagaya suddenly looked so very tired, his smile disappearing. "Convincing them will be difficult. I don't even blame them - the idea of there being a good demon is inconceivable; something that only exists in the realm of impossibility. I presume that's why you didn't try to defend yourself during the meeting?"

Giyuu nodded. "Yes. I was aware that no matter what I said, they would not believe me. It would have simply been a waste of breath."

Kagaya nodded, taking another sip of tea. "Fortunately, I've already set a plan in motion. You will not be executed, Giyuu, that I swear to you."

Giyuu inclined his head. Then he paused. "A plan?"

Kagaya gave an enigmatic smile. "Have you spoken to Kanao yet?"

XxX

"Tomioka is at risk of being executed?" Kanao asked, blinking in shock. Shinobu had just returned from the Pillar meeting and told her about what happened.

Shinobu sighed. "Yes. I can't say I'm really surprised, however. His actions were a massive breach of the code. Letting two demons escape as a Pillar..." Her gaze turned pensive. "Tomioka, just what are you thinking?" she muttered under her breath.

"Did the Pillars already decide?" Kanao questioned.

"No," Shinobu shook her head. "Oyakata-sama placed Tomioka under house arrest for a month. I suspect he hopes that the Pillars will cool off in that time, as well as allowing him to come up with some way to deal with the situation."

Kanao was silent for a moment.

Shinobu smiled reassuringly at her. "Don't worry, though. As much as I hate to admit it, Tomioka did betray the Demon Slayers - "

"No he didn't," Kanao said.

Shinobu frowned. "What do you mean?"

Kanao looked at her, and Shinobu was startled to see a trace of determination in her normally emotionless gaze.

"The Demon Slayer Corps' mission is to eliminate demons that kill and eat humans," Kanao said, her voice soft yet unfaltering. "Tanjirou and Nezuko have never eaten a human before. Therefore, Tomioka didn't violate the code by sparing them."

There was a moment of silence.

"How do you know that?" Shinobu asked, an indecipherable look in her eyes. "Tomioka didn't tell me anything."

Kanao paused, hesitating. Her hand wavered slightly, drifting toward where her coin was kept before it halted suddenly. After several seconds, she spoke. "I was defeated by Tanjirou and knocked unconscious. When I awoke, I was in a cave with them, completely unharmed. He let me go free. And when he told me that they hadn't killed or eaten any humans before, I could see that they were telling the truth."

Shinobu had gone dead still at her words, her body tense and her face pale. Her customary smile had disappeared, replaced by a look of shock and fear. "What?" she breathed. "You were captured by those two demons?"

Kanao nodded.

"But the Kasugai crow said that you were safe!"

Kanao blinked in confusion.

"It was the only reason why we didn't go look for you - your Kasugai crow said that you weren't in any danger!" Shinobu continued frantically before her eyes widened. "You're not hurt anywhere, are you?" She rushed forward and began checking Kanao over for injuries.

"I'm fine," Kanao assured her. "They didn't hurt me."

Shinobu looked at her worriedly. "Are you sure?" Kanao nodded. Shinobu relaxed somewhat, though she was still tense. "That's good." Then, after a brief pause, she asked, "What happened?"

Kanao retold the events: her chasing them through the mountain, Tanjirou knocking her out, her waking up in the cave and him letting her go. She also told Shinobu about how Tanjirou had saved her from Rui's threads, and how her supernatural eyesight had revealed that he was being completely sincere.

By the time she finished, Shinobu's purple eyes were wide.

"Is... is it really true?" she asked disbelievingly.

"It is," Kanao said quietly.

Shinobu appeared deeply troubled. "I'll inform Oyakata-sama about this tomorrow," she finally said. "If this is true, then Tomioka needn't be executed after all." She paused. "Although, considering the Kasugai crows," she muttered, "I wouldn't be surprised if he already knows."

XxX

"But what if you were wrong about those two?" Giyuu questioned after Kagaya's explanation of the events that afternoon. "What if Tsuyuri really was in danger?"

"Do you think Tanjirou or Nezuko would've been a danger to her?"

Giyuu shook his head. "No, but that's different. You've never met them before."

Kagaya regarded him with sightless eyes. "Do you trust me, Giyuu?"

"Yes," Giyuu answered immediately.

"Then please trust me when I say that I knew there was absolutely no chance at all of Kanao getting hurt," Kagaya said with conviction. "My intuition, if you will. I would never gamble with my children's lives like that."

The Water Pillar inclined his head acceptingly after a moment. The Ubuyashiki family always had a legendary intuition. "Very well. So now what do we do?"

Kagaya smiled. "For now, we wait. Let the tensions cool down first. After that... I'll need to send an important letter."

XxX

Dear Kamado Tanjirou,

Hello. I am Ubuyashiki Kagaya, the leader of the Demon Slayer Corps. Lady Tamayo, a good friend of mine, informed me about you and your little sister Nezuko. Two demons who do not consume humans and are hunting the Demon Moons in pursuit of a cure. It is truly remarkable.

You have gone through much pain and suffering. Your entire family has been killed by Kibutsuji Muzan, and you yourself have been turned into a demon. I cannot imagine just how painful it must've been. And yet, despite staring death itself in the face, you continued fighting, you continued advancing. You never gave up. From the bottom of my heart, I admire you, Tanjirou.

I am writing to you because your actions may lead to the death of one of my children. Allow me to explain. As you may know, in order to cover your escape, Tomioka Giyuu decided to engage in combat with Kochou Shinobu, and in doing so violated the code. Naturally, the Pillars took offense to that. The majority has decided on execution as a punishment, and though I have delayed it for a month, they will make the final decision tomorrow. Needless to say, I wish to prevent that.

There will be a trial tomorrow night held at the Ubuyashiki Estate. I humbly beseech you to come give your own side of the story. Show the Pillars that you and Nezuko are truly good, peaceful demons. This will also aid in your quest to find a cure, as you will then be able to work together with my Pillars to hunt down and defeat the Demon Moons.

I understand you may be wary of journeying to the Demon Slayer Corps Headquarters, but I give you my word that no harm will come to either you or your sister. I promise that you both will be safe.

I have attached directions to the Ubuyashiki Estate. If you choose to come, please arrive at the North entrance - there shall be two of my children waiting for you. They will guide you. Please follow their instructions.

One last thing. Both my identity and the location of the Ubuyashiki Estate are highly classified, and I'm putting my life and my family's lives at risk by even telling you. However, I believe that you are trustworthy. That being said, I implore you to not tell anyone else.

Save Giyuu. Please.

Best regards,

Ubuyashiki Kagaya.

The 97th Leader of the Demon Slayer Corps.

---

The Ubuyashiki Estate was a simple yet elegant building with a fountain in the courtyard. As Tanjirou neared, he winced slightly at the scent of wisteria. It was extremely uncomfortable, and he felt Nezuko shifting around agitatedly on his back. Fortunately, they were able to endure it.

As promised, two children were waiting dutifully at the North entrance.

"Hello," Tanjirou greeted them with a smile. "I'm Kamado Tanjirou, and this is Kamado Nezuko."

"Thank you for coming," one of them said.

"Right this way," the other continued, turning around and leading them deeper into the Ubuyashiki Estate.

Tanjirou hesitated for only a moment. However, he didn't smell any deception, so he followed them inside, Nezuko walking beside him.

They stopped outside a sliding door. Tanjirou could distinctly hear voices beyond the door.

"Wait here," one of the children instructed. "Father will give the signal when he's ready for you two to come out."

Tanjirou nodded. "Alright - Nezuko!" he whispered when Nezuko wasted no time in laying down on the comfortable tatami mat floor.

XxX

"Thank you all for coming tonight, my beloved children," Kagaya greeted, the moonlight illuminating his warm smile.

"I am pleased to see you in good health, Oyakata-sama," Sanemi said reverently, his head bowed. "I fervently pray for your ongoing luck and prosperity."

"Thank you, Sanemi," Kagaya replied with genuine gratitude.

Then, in the exact same tone, Sanemi continued, "If I may, Oyakata-sama, shall we proceed with due haste in deciding whether or not to forcibly separate Tomioka's head from his body? I admit, I've had a sick taste in my mouth for the past month as he continues to breathe despite his atrocious crimes."

Giyuu, who was kneeling in front of the Pillars, didn't react at all to Sanemi's harsh words.

In contrast, Kagaya frowned slightly. "Sanemi..." he spoke reproachfully.

The sheer disappointment in his tone left Sanemi wilting. Fortunately, Rengoku came to support him.

"I agree with Shinazugawa!" he declared. "Tomioka had attacked a fellow Pillar and allowed two demons to escape. It's been a month since then - I wouldn't be surprised if those two demons had killed several humans in that time!"

"And what if I say they hadn't?" Kagaya returned smoothly.

Rengoku faltered.

"And what if," Kagaya continued, "I say that not only have those two demons not killed any humans in the past month, but they have not consumed - or harmed - any humans ever since they became demons?"

"Then I would assume that you have taken up the hobby of storytelling!" Rengoku replied with a smile. "Because such a thing could not conceivably happen in real life!"

Kagaya chuckled lightly. "Not quite. For you see, that's exactly the case with Kamado Tanjirou and Kamado Nezuko, the two demons Giyuu had let escape."

There was a moment of silence as the Pillars stared at him incredulously.

"I assume you have objections," Kagaya smiled. "Feel free to gather your thoughts. I'll wait."

"That's impossible!" Rengoku was the first to declare.

"Indeed," Himejima agreed. "Demons are beings of pure evil. I too find it impossible for there to be two demons who have not eaten or harmed any humans."

"It just doesn't happen," Obanai added.

"A grandiose tale, for sure," Uzui nodded in approval, "but a tale nonetheless. Something that only exists in imagination."

Muichirou, as usual, said nothing. Why did Oyakata-sama call the meeting during the night?

"I don't know what lies Tomioka has been feeding you in the past month," Sanemi growled, "but he's obviously taking advantage of your kindness. Please do not fall prey to his deceptions. A demon that doesn't kill or eat humans... It's absurd."

Kanroji nodded hesitantly. "Yes, while it would be nice for good demons to exist, I don't think it's possible either."

Shinobu said nothing.

Kagaya, who had been listening to the Pillars speak with a thoughtful gaze, nodded once they finished. "A valid point," he conceded. "I understand it's difficult to accept such a preposterous concept. However, I promise you that it is an indisputable fact."

"I won't believe it until I see it with my own eyes," Sanemi said, his eyes narrowed.

Kagaya smiled. "How fortunate it is, then, that we have them here with us. Tanjirou, Nezuko, if you two would please come out?"

It took the Pillars a moment to fully comprehend his words. By the time they did, the sliding doors had already opened and Tanjirou and Nezuko walked out, their claws and general aura making it perfectly clear that they weren't human.

There was a moment of stunned silence as the Pillars stared at them disbelievingly.

"My children, do not be alarmed," Kagaya said soothingly. "They are here as my guests. Please do not attack them."

Tanjirou smiled in greeting. "Hello there! My name is Kamado Tanjirou, and this is my little sister, Kamado Nezuko. It's nice to meet - "

The Pillars exploded into action.

Tanjirou's eyes widened as Sanemi blurred, appearing in front of him with his blade drawn and aimed to bisect him. He quickly drew his own sword to block, grunting as Sanemi's strike knocked him back several steps. They exchanged blows, Sanemi forcing them off of the raised veranda and onto the ground of the rock garden.

Rengoku, Obanai, Muichirou, Himejima, Uzui, and Kanroji surrounded them, their blades drawn.

Tanjirou glanced around nervously. "Wait, we - "

"DIE!" Sanemi roared as he rushed Tanjirou, wind rippling off his blade.

Tanjirou's eyes widened. "Nezuko, stay behind me!" he shouted as he blocked Sanemi's ferocious attacks. Nezuko growled, moving in coordination with him. And it worked, for about a single second, before the other Pillars joined in, working together to produce a devastating combination attack.

Sanemi in front, unleashing a slash coated in wind.

Rengoku on his left, preparing an upward cut, his sword covered in flames.

Muichirou on his right, about to thrust into his chest, mist surrounding him.

Uzui above him, his dual blades resonating loudly.

Obanai behind him, his sword somehow curving through the air with an image of a snake overlaid over it.

A spiked flail and a flexible sword streaking at him through the air from Himejima and Kanroji respectively.

For a moment, Tanjirou felt fear.

He... he might actually die from this.

However, if he died, then Nezuko would die as well.

And that was unacceptable.

His vision flickered for a microsecond before the Pillars turned transparent and everything slowed to a crawl. The rising heat within him reached a climax as the mark on his forehead burned. He analyzed the attack, trying to come up with a plan of action.

There was no such thing as a perfect attack. There had to be a way out of this.

He pushed his senses to their absolute limits, his mind working in overdrive, even as the Pillars neared -

There it was! The opening thread!

Tanjirou breathed.

Breath of the Sun, Fourth Form. Fake Rainbow.

He grabbed Nezuko by the arm and flickered out of existence, a single afterimage being left behind. It wouldn't do much - already, it was disappearing from the sheer force of the shockwaves generated by the Pillars' speed, but the distraction gave him a split second to reposition himself, and that was all he needed.

Breath of the Sun, Eleventh Form. Solar Halo Dragon Dance.

He spun in the air, a crimson dragon of flames roaring to life around him. He deflected Sanemi's slash first before knocking aside Uzui's blades with an explosive sound and continuing his strike behind him, forcing Obanai to dodge back, before rotating to his left, his sword arcing diagonally and blocking Rengoku's sword, Kanroji's sword, and Himejima's flail in one strike.

In a single continuous motion, Tanjirou had countered the combination attack of seven Pillars. They recovered instantly, however, and dashed toward him.

Breath of the Sun, Fourth Form. Fake Rainbow.

Sanemi slashed apart the afterimages with frustrated yells while Himejima was already turning to where Tanjirou had reappeared.

"Allow me," the giant man's voice reverberated across the garden.

Total Concentration. Stone Breathing. Fifth Form. Arcs of Justice.

He swung his massive spiked flail and axe in the air before letting loose a powerful barrage of attacks that pulverized the entire surrounding area. Rocks were pulverized and huge craters appeared in the ground. Tanjirou stared at one of the craters in disbelief before flipping into the air to dodge Kanroji's flexible sword.

Just how strong was this man?

Experimentally, Tanjirou tried to block one - and instantly pain flared in his arm from the impact, the destructive energy in the strikes nearly breaking his limb.

Yeah, not trying that again.

As he dodged the flail and axe, utilizing a derivation of Fake Rainbow to use advanced footwork to keep his movements unpredictable, his eyes widened as Muichirou suddenly appeared next to him, seemingly out of nowhere.

Total Concentration. Mist Breathing. Fifth Form. Sea of Clouds and Haze.

The Mist Pillar's sword blurred as he unleashed a flurry of slashes.

Breath of the Sun, Third Form. Scorching Crimson Mirror.

Tanjirou sliced twice horizontally, the Transparent World allowing him to strike Muichirou's sword at the perfect angle to deflect it upward and giving him an opening.

Or at least, it would've been an opening if mist hadn't suddenly clouded the battlefield and Rengoku blurred in front of Muichirou encased in the fiery form of a tiger.

Total Concentration. Flame Breathing. Fifth Form. Flame Tiger.

Rengoku charged at Tanjirou with blinding speed, the ground cracking underneath his every step, swinging his sword multiple times in a single second.

Tanjirou leaped backward before planting his heel into the ground to meet Rengoku's charge head on, blocking all the strikes before Uzui crashed into the ground next to him and he was forced to spin to the side as the ground cracked even further and a sound like thunder was released, the directed shockwave slamming into him.

"My children - " Kagaya began, a note of agitation in his voice, but was cut off by the ear-splitting screech of wind and the hissing of snakes.

Tanjirou's eyes widened as he realized his fatal flaw. In dodging Rengoku's charge, he had left Nezuko alone and wide open.

Sanemi had a bloodthirsty grin on his face as he rushed Nezuko, Obanai dashing toward her from behind, trapping her in a pincer.

Total Concentration. Wind Breathing. Second Form. Claws - Purifying Wind.

Total Concentration. Serpent Breathing. Second Form. Venom Fangs of the Narrow Head.

Sanemi leaped into the air, prepared to slash downward while Obanai disappeared in a burst of speed, appearing behind her to cut off her head.

NO!

Tanjirou breathed, his lungs straining as he blurred toward Nezuko to protect her - when Himejima's heavy axe and a horizontal slice from Muichirou cut him off, and he had no choice but to dodge to the side.

He watched helplessly as Sanemi and Obanai's blades neared Nezuko's neck, moving too fast for him to block in time. Despair appeared in his eyes as an anguished sound tore through his throat -

Total Concentration. Water Breathing. Eleventh Form. Lull.

- when Giyuu materialized in front of her standing completely relaxed, a calm expression on his face, his sword pointed downward.

Sanemi and Obanai's blades were knocked aside by an invisible force as if there was an unseen force field surrounding Giyuu and Nezuko.

The other Pillars seemed to grow even more enraged at his actions.

"Again?" Obanai hissed. "You would turn your blade against your fellow Pillars again?"

Giyuu didn't have enough time to answer before Rengoku and Obanai rushed him and he had to focus all his concentration on not being eviscerated.

It was complete chaos. The sound of clashing blades filled the air, a disjointed cacophony of ringing metal and deafening explosions. Anyone watching the fight would see only hazy blurs of insanely high-speed movements with the occasional afterimage left behind.

Only Shinobu hadn't entered the battle yet - she was observing uncertainly, her hand hovering over the handle of her blade.

As Tanjirou leaped back, just barely dodging a spiked flail from Himejima, he turned his head slightly to look at Kagaya, his pink eyes filled with fear and panic.

"Ubuyashiki!" he yelled desperately. "You promised!"

Sanemi grew even more enraged. "Don't you dare utter Oyakata-sama's name, you - "

"ENOUGH!"

All the Pillars instantly froze at the sound. Sanemi was still in the middle of a downward cleave, his blade suspended in midair.

Slowly, they turned to look at the one who had spoken.

Kagaya's eyes were narrowed. "That is enough," he repeated.

The Pillars could only stare in shock. Kagaya never raised his voice. Ever. Not to mention how they didn't even think it was possible for him to show any sign of anger on his face.

"But - " Sanemi started to protest. "Oyakata-sama, those are demons - "

Kagaya silenced him with just a look.

"Sheathe your blades please," he commanded. "Now."

They all complied, even Tanjirou.

"Words cannot fully express my disappointment in all of you," Kagaya said softly, each word feeling like a physical blow to the Pillars. "These two are my guests whom I had invited into my home. I gave them my word that no harm would come to them."

"Oyakata-sama, they're demons," Obanai stressed.

"Do you trust me?" Kagaya asked.

Obanai hesitated. "Yes."

"Then trust me on this," Kagaya said simply. "I would not have invited Tanjirou and Nezuko here if I didn't have full faith in them. Hinaki, what are the damages?"

One of Kagaya's children stepped forward. "The rock garden is completely destroyed," she relayed. "There are approximately thirty craters in the ground" - Himejima coughed softly - "as well as countless cracks that I'm surprised haven't destroyed the foundation of the mansion itself." Rengoku coughed loudly. "Several windows appear to have shattered from the shockwaves as well" - Uzui began whistling a tune quietly - "and the outer paint is scratched so badly, it's simply beyond economical repair." Sanemi decidedly avoided everyone's gaze.

As she spoke, the other Pillars grew more and more uncomfortable, their expressions becoming increasingly mortified.

Kagaya sighed. "I see. I do hope you all will apologize to the kabushi later, as they are the ones who will have to repair this mess. More importantly..."

He then turned to Tanjirou and Nezuko and, to the immense shock of everyone present, he kneeled down into the dogeza position. His two children kneeled alongside him. "I sincerely apologize for the actions of my children," he said, prostrating so that his forehead touched the floor. "I have no excuses, and can only ask for your forgiveness."

"It - it's fine!" Tanjirou said frantically. "There's no need to bow to us. I forgive you. Just please raise your heads!"

The Pillars erupted into vehement protests as well, looking panicked and just a little fearful. They seemed to have completely forgotten about the two demons, and were instead trying their best to convince Kagaya and his two children to raise their heads.

Finally, Kagaya and his children rose, and all the assorted Pillars plus one demon breathed a sigh of relief.

"Thank you," Kagaya said, bowing his head one last time to Tanjirou before his usual serene smile returned. "Now then, may we please have a civil conversation without trying to behead one another?"

The Pillars, though they didn't look too happy about it, nodded in assent, kneeling back down.

Tanjirou relaxed as he and Nezuko knelt as well - it only seemed right. The entire fight had lasted for only about ten seconds but it felt like an eternity longer. If Kagaya hadn't been able to end the battle... Tanjirou shuddered to think what might have happened. His hands were still trembling slightly.

On the other side of the coin, the Pillars were regarding him warily.

Even though Giyuu had helped, Tanjirou had still managed to match them for a staggering ten seconds before Kagaya stopped the fight. He had successfully defended against the full unrestrained power of seven Pillars without taking a single injury while protecting his little sister to boot. And throughout the fight, he had radiated no murderous intent or even battle presence whatsoever.

This demon...

He was extremely dangerous.

Uzui was the first to break the silence, laughing exuberantly. "What a grandiose showing! You may be a demon, but the sheer flamboyance you just displayed was impressive. Very well. I shall hear what you have to say."

Tanjirou nodded as he began his story. "Around two years ago, Kibutsuji Muzan killed my entire family and turned me and Nezuko into demons - "

There were multiple sharp intakes of breath.

"You've met Kibutsuji Muzan?!" Uzui asked, his eyes going wide. "What did he look like? What were his abilities? Were there any Upper Moons with him?"

"What was Kibutsuji doing?" Sanemi demanded. "Did you find his stronghold? Hey, answer me!"

"Shut up! I asked him first! Tell us what his abilities are!"

"Did you fight him?" Muichirou inquired.

At this, both Uzui and Sanemi also went silent, also curious of the answer.

Tanjirou's face darkened. "Yeah, I did."

All the Pillars' eyes widened, and even Kagaya looked surprised. Uzui reared back in shock, and Sanemi stopped breathing altogether.

"It was just about a week ago," Tanjirou said, a pained expression passing over his face. "I was in the city of Tanzaku looking for the Demon Moons when we came across him by pure coincidence in an alleyway. He - he was killing a human. I wasn't able to stop him."

"Namu Amida Butsu," Himejima murmured, tears flowing down his cheeks.

"I attacked him," Tanjirou continued. "And... he was insanely strong. He had perfect control over his flesh and was able to manipulate it freely, even creating barbed whips. And he was able to morph his torso and upper body into a beastly mouth which let out a shockwave scream that dealt massive damage, incapacitating me."

He clenched his fists tightly. "The only reason why I lived was because he chose to run away instead of fighting back."

"Was he stronger than all of us when we attacked you?" Rengoku asked.

Tanjirou hesitated before nodding. "His scent... it was terrifying. He's on a whole other level."

The atmosphere became grim.

"Then we'll just have to train harder and grow stronger!" Rengoku declared.

There was a muttering of agreement.

"As for your other questions," Tanjirou said. "Kibutsuji Muzan was extremely pale, and his eyes were plum red. He wore a black suit and a white fedora. There weren't any Upper Moons with him, and I have no idea where his stronghold is."

"How do we know you're not lying about him though?" Sanemi asked, a suspicious note entering his voice.

Tanjirou paused, unsure on how to respond. He didn't, after all, have any way of proving it.

"You said his name," Shinobu said suddenly.

Tanjirou frowned. "I'm sorry?"

"You said Kibutsuji Muzan's name."

There was a moment of silence before realization dawned on the other Pillar's faces.

"Oh, right," Tanjirou smiled. "I somehow broke free of his control, so his curse doesn't affect me. I'm not sure how I did it, though."

"I see," Shinobu murmured. "And the wisteria lining the Ubuyashiki Estate? How did you bypass those?"

Tanjirou blinked in confusion. "The wisteria? It felt bad, but other than that it didn't do anything."

Shinobu shared an uneasy look with the other Pillars. "Perhaps stronger demons are able to withstand the wisteria's repelling effect?" she hypothesized.

"It's certainly a possibility," Obanai said slowly. "Though that means the Ubuyashiki Estate may not be as safe as we thought it was..."

"At any rate," Kagaya interjected, "I think that proves Tanjirou is not aligned with Kibutsuji Muzan. However, if there are still any lingering doubts, consider this. If Tanjirou and Nezuko truly were working with Kibutsuji... then shouldn't the Demon Moons and Kibutsuji himself be descending upon my Estate to kill me?"

There was a moment of silence.

Kagaya smiled. "Indeed. The fact that we're not currently under attack is proof that Tanjirou and Nezuko have broken free of Kibutsuji's control and are acting independently of him. Also, there's something else I wish to relay to you, my children. During the Mount Natagumo mission, Tanjirou had saved the life of Shinobu's tsuguko, Tsuyuri Kanao, protecting her from the Lower Moon Five."

"Oh, that's right!" Tanjirou exclaimed. "Is Kanao alright?"

"She's fine," Shinobu replied after a small pause. Tanjirou smiled in relief.

"On top of that," Kagaya continued. "Kanao had informed me that Tanjirou and Nezuko truly hadn't eaten or harmed any humans."

"He could've tricked her," Sanemi objected.

"Doubtful," Shinobu murmured. "Kanao's eyesight is perhaps the best in the Demon Slayer Corps - even better than all of ours. She's capable of detecting any lie and falsehood. If she believes Tanjirou, then I believe Tanjirou."

"I think the evidence is clear," Kagaya declared softly. "The two demons, Kamado Tanjirou and Kamado Nezuko, not only haven't harmed or eaten any humans before, but they even saved Kanao Tsuyuri from death. They are, without a doubt, good demons."

Shinobu glanced over at Giyuu. "Then..."

Kagaya nodded. "Correct. Giyuu's actions on Mount Natagumo are therefore justified. Granted, perhaps there were better methods he could've used, but ultimately, his act of defending Tanjirou and Nezuko does not violate the Demon Slayers Code. A technicality it may be, but it is still the truth."

He smiled. "My children. I ask you all to try to accept Tanjirou and Nezuko into our ranks. I understand it's difficult, but they are on the side of humanity. Together, we shall take down Kibutsuji Muzan."

Dead silence.

There was a loud crack as Sanemi punched the ground, bloodying his fist. "No," he growled. "I can accept Tomioka not being executed - it's obvious he thought he was justified. However, there is not a chance in hell I'll ever accept these two demons. They're tricking you, Oyakata-sama, just like how they tricked Tomioka and Shinobu's tsuguko. They're putting on a facade to get us to lower our guards - and when we least suspect it, they'll strike."

"We would never - " Tanjirou was cut off when Sanemi drew his blade once more.

"Oyakata-sama, I'll prove it to you myself!" The Wind Pillar shouted. "The sheer wickedness of demons!"

Without any hesitation, he sliced his forearm open. Blood immediately began dripping out of the wound.

"Come," Sanemi gave a bloodthirsty smile. "Show us your true colors and let us obliterate you right here!"

Tanjirou would have responded if it weren't for a delicious smell filling the air and the sudden drool filling his mouth.

Huh?

Beside him, Nezuko was in a similar state, letting out low growls. She took an unconscious step forward, her gaze focused on the open wound.

Sanemi's homicidal grin grew even wider.

It... It smells so good... Tanjirou's mouth watered as he too lurched forward. This sweet scent with a tinge of saltiness... It's so familiar... What was it? It was... It was...

Rice crackers, he remembered. One of his favorite comfort foods that his mother would always make every week.

A smile slowly spread across Tanjirou's face as his mouth watered even more. Mother's cooking truly was the best -

Mother.

The memory of him about to eat his mother's unmoving body flashed across his mind.

Bile rose up in his throat as he turned to the side and retched violently. He likely would've vomited if it weren't for the fact that he hadn't eaten anything in about two years now.

Even as he dry-heaved, Tanjirou's eyes widened in horror as his mind returned to him. He - he had almost lost control again. Disgust and self-loathing welled up within him, but he quickly forced it down. Nezuko still hadn't returned to normal yet.

"Nezuko," he gasped between coughs. "Don't give in."

Nezuko stopped abruptly, beads of sweat on her forehead. There was a long, tense moment. Then, with an audible grunt, she turned her head away, shutting her eyes tightly.

Sanemi's smile disappeared, replaced by a heavy frown.

"What just happened?" Kagaya inquired.

"The demon girl turned away in disgust," one of his children reported, "while the demon boy nearly threw up."

Kagaya smiled. "I see. So, with that it's proven that Tanjirou and Nezuko won't harm any humans, right?"

Nobody said anything.

"Of course, I'm sure that even after all's said and done, there will be some who still can't accept Tanjirou and Nezuko. Am I correct in assuming that?"

There was some slight hesitation before several Pillars nodded their heads.

"I apologize, Oyakata-sama!" Rengoku stated, "but the idea of a good demon is still incomprehensible to me. I'll need to see it with my own eyes to believe it!"

"Indeed," Himejima nodded. "It is... difficult for me to believe."

"I'll never trust those two demons," Obanai said venomously. "Not now, not ever."

"I'm sure I've made my feelings very clear," Sanemi said.

Kagaya hummed. "Perfectly understandable. It would, after all, be as if I suddenly told you one morning that the sky wasn't blue, or that pigs could fly. But then we arrive at a conundrum. I admit, I don't know how else to prove to you that these two are on the side of humanity."

He paused before turning to Tanjirou. "Unless Tanjirou has any ideas?"

Tanjirou understood Kagaya's intentions immediately. "I do," he responded. "I need to hunt down the Demon Moons. We can work together to take them down," he suggested.

"Why are you hunting down the Demon Moons?" Shinobu asked curiously.

Tanjirou beamed at her. "So I can turn Nezuko back into a human, of course! I need to acquire the blood of Demon Moons for a cure to be made."

Shinobu blinked.

"An admirable goal," Kagaya inclined his head. "What do you say then, my children? It would be greatly beneficial for us to combine our forces against Kibutsuji Muzan."

"I think it's a brilliant idea!" Rengoku said wholeheartedly. "It would be a fine way for Tanjirou and Nezuko to prove themselves as good demons. Actions speak louder than words, after all!"

"And, if they do turn out to be evil, then we can focus on eliminating them," Obanai said, his mismatched gaze piercing into Tanjirou. "I approve as well."

The other Pillars also expressed their agreements, some (cough Sanemi cough) more reluctant than others, with only Muichirou staying silent as he absently tried to remember where the constellations in the night sky were.

"I'm glad we've come to an accord," Kagaya said with genuine joy in his voice. "It just so happens that I have a mission available. There have been reports of people disappearing on the 'Infinity Train' in a nearby town. I've already sent several lower-ranked demon slayers to investigate, but none have returned. There may be a Demon Moon there."

"I'll go!" Rengoku volunteered immediately, his hand shooting into the air.

"Very well," Kagaya nodded. "Anyone else?"

"I'll also go," Shinobu said sweetly. "I wish to find out exactly what it was that made Tomioka turn his blade against me."

Tanjirou swallowed nervously at the unusual glint in her purple eyes.

"Excellent," Kagaya smiled. "Two Pillars should be more than enough. It's been decided then. Tanjirou and Nezuko shall accompany Kyojurou and Shinobu to investigate the Infinity Train. Since you cannot venture out during the day, you will set out tomorrow night. I'll have special boxes manufactured just in case something unexpected occurs so that you two will be shielded from the sun."

Tanjirou brightened at the kind offer. "Thank you!"

"For the time being, you two may stay in the Ubuyashiki Estate with me."

"Absolutely not, Oyakata-sama," Sanemi instantly put his foot down. "That's way too dangerous."

"I can take them into the Water Estate," Giyuu spoke up for the first time since the meeting began.

"That works as well," Kagaya said. "Thank you, Giyuu."

Giyuu inclined his head. "My pleasure."

"With that, I believe we have discussed everything we needed to," Kagaya gave one last warm smile. "Have a pleasant night, my children."

XxX

"Thank you very much for everything!"

Giyuu stared at Tanjirou, who was bowing deeply. "You're welcome," he said tonelessly.

"I'm so sorry you almost got executed because of us!"

"It's quite alright."

"If there's anything I can do to repay you, please let me know!"

"There isn't." A pause, then: "You can raise your head now."

Tanjirou finally straightened from his bow. They were in the Water Estate, a compound several times smaller than the Ubuyashiki Estate.

Nezuko was currently asleep in a different room. When Giyuu had shown them to their room, Nezuko had collapsed onto the soft futon, let out a contented sigh, and immediately passed out. Tanjirou had realized with a start and some shame that it was the first time in months Nezuko had slept on a futon. He resolved to do something nice for her later.

Giyuu and Tanjirou were in the living room, kneeling across from each other. Tanjirou took this opportunity to ask Giyuu a burning question he had been wondering about for quite some time now.

"Why did you defend us?"

Giyuu blinked before going silent for a long moment.

"Why indeed," he finally muttered. "I suppose... it's because I saw something special in you two."

Tanjirou tilted his head. "Something special?"

"There have never been demons like you two before," Giyuu elaborated. "Nothing has changed in the war against Kibutsuji Muzan for a millenium. To shift the tide, we need to try something new."

He paused before saying in a voice so quiet Tanjirou almost didn't hear, "Also, you reminded me of him - "

The door slammed open and an old man in a blue haori wearing a red tengu mask stepped into the room.

"Giyuu! What happened?!"

"I was fully pardoned and will not be punished," Giyuu answered impassively.

Then the current Water Pillar's eyes widened and his entire body stiffened up when the old man crossed the distance between them in the blink of an eye and embraced him tightly.

"Thank the gods," the old man said, the scent of overwhelming relief and joy flowing off of him. "You're safe."

"Master," Giyuu said, looking distinctly uncomfortable.

Finally, the old man pulled back before turning to Tanjirou. "And this is the demon, I presume?"

"Yes," Giyuu nodded before adding. "Please don't attack him."

Tanjirou smiled brightly. "Hello! I'm Kamado Tanjirou. It's nice to meet you."

"I'm Giyuu's master, Urokodaki Sakonji," Urokodaki said after a moment's hesitation. "It's a pleasure to meet you as well. Tell me: is it true that you've never eaten or harmed a human before?"

Tanjirou nodded, his eyes shining with sincerity. "It is."

Urokodaki regarded him for a long moment. Tanjirou heard him breathe in deeply. Perhaps Urokodaki also had a good sense of smell?

"I see," Urokodoki murmured. "You're telling the truth, impossibly enough." He shook his head in amazement. "Incredible. What are your goals?"

"To hunt down the Demon Moons and turn my sister back into a human."

There was another lengthy moment of silence as the scent of incredulity drifted off of the old man's form.

Finally, Urokodaki spoke. "That's a noble goal to have." He tilted his head. "Perhaps, in another life, if you had remained human, I could've taken you in as my student."

Tanjirou smiled warmly. "That would've been nice. I think I would've enjoyed being your student. Perhaps, in another life."

XxX

"I wish to go as well."

Shinobu drew in a sharp breath at Kanao's sudden words.

Kanao herself seemed surprised that she had spoken, but she didn't back down.

Shinobu recovered her composure quickly, smiling at Kanao. "Well, alright then."

XxX

"Umm..." Tanjirou began hesitantly as they waited for the train to arrive. "Would you really have killed Tomioka?"

"Probably," Shinobu responded cheerfully. "The Demon Slayers code exists for a reason." Though her expression didn't change, her scent wavered slightly, a trace smell of sorrow mixing in with the customary anger. "Tomioka would've been executed if Oyakata-sama didn't step in."

Tanjirou winced. "I-I didn't mean for that to happen." A small smile appeared on his face. "I'm so relieved. Oyakata-sama is a good man."

"How odd!" Rengoku suddenly exclaimed, startling Tanjirou. "A demon relieved that a demon slayer is able to live? What a perplexing paradox!"

"You - you think I want Tomioka to die?" Tanjirou looked aghast.

"Indeed!" Rengoku nodded with conviction. "That would be the natural inclination of your species, would it not?"

Tanjirou opened his mouth but then paused when he realized that Rengoku had a point. He looked down, his hands balling into fists by his sides. "You may be right," he said in a quiet voice. "But..." he looked back up, staring Rengoku in the eye, sincerity exuding from his form. "Is it really so unthinkable that there are good demons out there too?"

Rengoku's gaze sharpened momentarily as he held Tanjirou's gaze, seemingly considering his answer. Then he nodded once more. "Yes, it really is so unthinkable!"

Tanjirou deflated, glancing away. "Oh," he mumbled dejectedly. "I see."

The Pillars tensed up as Nezuko stirred before stepping closer to Tanjirou, slipping her hand into his. Tanjirou smiled at her, grateful for the show of support.

"Anyway," Tanjirou tried to change the subject of the conversation, "What are we waiting for?"

Shinobu blinked. "The train," she answered.

"Yes, but what exactly is a train?"

A loud whistle filled the air.

Shinobu turned and pointed. "It's that."

Tanjirou turned around - and promptly jumped back, his eyes widening in shock. A large black train was rapidly approaching in the distance.

"M-magic!" Tanjirou gasped. "Is it a dragon? Or perhaps the mystical guardian of these lands?"

Shinobu laughed lightly. "It's a vehicle for transportation," she corrected. "It's entirely mechanical - no magic is involved."

"Really?" Tanjirou said disbelievingly. "How does something that huge manage to move?"

"It runs on steam," Shinobu replied.

Tanjirou stared at her. "Steam," he echoed doubtfully. "Are you sure it isn't some guardian spirit?"

Shinobu smiled amusedly. "Yes, I'm sure."

The train screeched to a halt in front of them and passengers began disembarking, stumbling off with heavy bags under their eyes.

"Hey, you! Kid!"

Rengoku, Tanjirou, Shinobu, Nezuko, and Kanao all looked over to see two train security guards running at them.

"Is that a sword?!" One of them shouted disbelievingly. "Kid, explain yourself now before we call the police!"

Tanjirou blinked before glancing down at his sheathed Nichirin blade. "Oh, this?" he asked confusedly. "This is for killing de - "

"It's a toy sword," Shinobu interrupted, stepping forward. "Sorry about my nephew - he really likes samurai. Don't worry, it's not real."

And she smiled pleasantly at them.

The security guards both blushed heavily.

"That's alright then," the one who had shouted said before asking shyly, "Umm, you're really pretty. Do you want to go out sometime - "

"Dude," the other guard hissed, elbowing him harshly while eyeing Rengoku nervously, who was smiling brightly while watching the proceedings. "Her boyfriend is right there!"

The first guard's eyes widened before he bowed deeply. "I-I'm sorry!"

"It's quite alright," Shinobu waved him off, her eyes dancing with amusement. "Now, I believe we should board the train now. Have a nice night, you two, and stay safe."

"Y-yes!"

"You didn't correct them when they called me your boyfriend," Rengoku noted as they made their way onboard. "Why is that?"

Shinobu hummed. "It wouldn't have been worth the trouble."

"Yes, but wouldn't Tomioka be offended?"

There was a moment of silence as Shinobu stopped abruptly.

"And what, pray tell," Shinobu smiled sweetly, a smile that screamed danger and sent shivers down Tanjirou's spine, "does Tomioka have to do with this?"

Rengoku paused before showcasing the superb self-preservation skills of a Pillar. "I take it back!" he declared. "Please disregard everything I just said."

"Better."

As they went deeper inside the cabins to get to their seats, Tanjirou stopped for a second to help an old man put his luggage in the overhead compartment. Rengoku's brow furrowed slightly at that.

"By the way, you need to hide that when you venture out," Shinobu said, gesturing at Tanjirou's Nichirin blade. "Swords are outlawed in the Meiji era."

Tanjirou frowned. "But all of you are..." he trailed off slowly when he realized that Rengoku had his sword concealed within his haori and Shinobu and Kanao had their blades in thin cloth bags. "Oh," he finished lamely, flushing with embarrassment.

"I'm surprised you weren't stopped before," Shinobu remarked. "You must've been very lucky." She paused as she looked at the overhead number. "These are our seats." She and Rengoku placed their respective boxes that Kagaya had ordered into the overhead compartment.

There was a brief pause as the two Pillars then turned to stare at Tanjirou and Nezuko.

"What?" Tanjirou asked nervously.

"We're trying to decide our seating arrangements," Rengoku answered exuberantly. "Kochou, I do not believe it is wise to let them sit together."

Shinobu nodded after a moment. "Very well."

Nezuko shifted closer to Tanjirou, clutching his checkered haori.

"We're not going to try anything," Tanjirou protested.

"Correct, because you two will be separated," Rengoku nodded. "I'm glad you understand."

"But - " Tanjirou sighed heavily. "Fine. Sorry Nezuko."

"She can sit next to me," Shinobu said, stepping aside to let Nezuko have the window seat.

Nezuko tilted her head, looking at Tanjirou questioningly, to which he just shrugged helplessly. She must've understood because she let go of his haori and slid into her seat. Shinobu sat down after her, Kanao taking a seat across from them.

Meanwhile, Tanjirou and Rengoku sat on the other side of the aisle, the Flame Pillar sitting with perfect posture.

With a loud whistle, the train began moving once more, Tanjirou tensing up for an instant before relaxing. He looked out the window as the train picked up speed. The landscape blurred around them.

"Amazing," he breathed before turning back and catching sight of Kanao staring intently at him. When their eyes met, she quickly averted her gaze, looking away.

Bemused, Tanjirou glanced over to check if Nezuko was doing alright - just in time to see Nezuko close her eyes and lean over to rest her head on Shinobu's shoulder.

Shinobu stiffened, her entire body going taut.

Rengoku noticed immediately. "What's the matter, Kochou - " he faltered as he took in the situation.

"Nezuko!" Tanjirou whisper-shouted, but Nezuko didn't give any indication that she had heard; she was fast asleep. "I'm so sorry!" he apologized profusely to Shinobu. "Nezuko doesn't eat any humans, so she has to sleep a lot to compensate. I guess she's really tired today."

"It's fine," Shinobu smiled. It evidently wasn't fine, judging by how strained her smile was. The Insect Pillar tensed up even more when Nezuko nuzzled deeper into her shoulder, a soft contented sigh escaping her.

"I can switch places if you want," Tanjirou offered.

Shinobu shook her head. "No," she smiled. "I'll be fine."

"I don't think I've ever seen a demon sleep before," Rengoku said.

"Since Nezuko and I don't eat humans, we recover our energy by sleeping," Tanjirou explained.

Rengoku nodded. "I see, I see."

They fell into a silence for several minutes, Tanjirou returning to staring at the scenery out the window.

The silence was broken when a train attendant walked up to them. "Hello," she smiled. "Would you like to order a bento for dinner?"

Shinobu nodded. "I'll have two, please."

"Beef or pork?"

"Beef for me, and..." Shinobu paused, glancing at Kanao. Kanao merely smiled back at her. Shinobu sighed. "Two beefs, actually."

"Thank you for your order," the train attendant turned to Rengoku and Tanjirou. "And what about you two gentlemen?"

"I shall have ten bentos, five beef and five pork please!" Rengoku said with a large smile.

The attendant blinked. "Pardon?"

"I said, I shall have ten bentos, five beef and five pork please!" Rengoku repeated.

"... could you pay upfront for that?"

Rengoku nodded, taking out a wallet. "How much will it be?"

Only after the attendant had the money in her hands did she smile. "Thank you for your order, sir. And what about you?" she asked, directing her gaze at Tanjirou.

Tanjirou shook his head. "Nothing for me. Thank you, though."

The train attendant left and swiftly returned with their orders, having to make multiple trips due to how many bentos Rengoku had bought.

"Itadakimasu," the demon slayers muttered before digging in.

Tanjirou stared forlornly at Rengoku's meal for a moment before letting out a silent sigh. As a demon, he was unable to eat normal human food; it all tasted like ash to him.

"Delicious!" Rengoku uttered, startling Tanjirou out of his thoughts. "Delicious!" Another bite. "Delicious!" Another bite. "Delicious!"

... right. So apparently, the Flame Pillar was extremely eccentric.

"So tell me, Tanjirou," Shinobu began after she finished her meal, "How did you and Tomioka meet?"

"I was burying my family," Tanjirou recalled. "Tomioka thought that I killed them, so he attacked me. He easily defeated me and I should've died but for some reason, he spared me."

"Do you know why?"

Tanjirou shrugged. "I don't know. He just stopped in the middle of this sword strike."

Shinobu sighed. "Of course he did." She tilted her head. "Also, during the Pillar Meeting, you mentioned that your goal was to turn Nezuko back into a human. What about yourself? Do you not desire to turn yourself back into a human as well?"

"I do," Tanjirou confirmed. "But... Nezuko comes first, no matter what. Me becoming a human again is secondary in priority."

Shinobu hummed. "You must love your sister very much."

Tanjirou nodded. "She's the only family I have left."

Shinobu's gaze softened. "I understand," she murmured. "One more thing. Back on Mount Natagumo..." her purple eyes pierced into his pink ones. "Why did you save Kanao?"

Kanao straightened imperceptibly in her seat as her eyes flickered over to look at Tanjirou, awaiting his answer.

"Because I didn't want her to die," he replied.

"Why?" Shinobu pressed.

Tanjirou scrunched up his eyebrows, confused. "Do I need a reason to not want someone to die?"

Shinobu blinked, taken aback.

"A person's life is precious," Tanjirou continued. "To take it away..." his eyes narrowed as memories of his family's bloody and broken bodies flashed across his mind. "It's something truly unforgivable."

Rengoku laughed spiritedly. "Well said! You may be a demon, but your ideals are certainly noble. I approve!"

Shinobu regarded Tanjirou with an indecipherable gaze. He met her gaze, his pink eyes sincere and unyielding.

"I see," she finally murmured. "Hey, I never did thank you for saving Kanao, did I?" She smiled brilliantly at Tanjirou, and it seemed a shade more genuine than before. "Thank you."

Tanjirou's eyes widened before he blushed slightly. "I-It's what anyone would've done."

"Not any demon," she said simply.

Throughout all this, Kanao was just quietly watching Tanjirou.

They settled in a more comfortable silence than before as the train rumbled along.

A ticket conductor approached them, his movements slow and lethargic. "Your tickets, please," he mumbled.

They each handed the conductor their tickets, Shinobu having to rouse Nezuko, and the conductor punched holes into them.

Click.

Click.

Click.

Click.

Click.

And thus, the nightmare began.

---

What is this? A chapter that didn't take several months to write? Is it even possible? What can I say - Mugen Train gave me a lot of inspiration.

Just to clarify: Tamayo had already told Kagaya about Tanjirou and Nezuko. As such, during the Mount Natagumo mission, Kagaya had commanded the Kasugai crows to let Tanjirou escape; he knew for certain that Kanao would've been fine.

Pretty sure I broke the timeline a bit here, but oh well.

Due to some feedback, the Pillars fight scene was rewritten.

Another massive thanks to tuntuntunaa, who was kind enough to help with several scenes in this chapter.

Thanks for reading, and please review!