Argentum: Here we go! Another fun chapter to read for all of ya'll!
Grel'Slyfer: Indeed, finally my friend shalt make an appearance!
Muzan: I really don't want to be here.
Slayer: Oh stop your bellyaching you Michael Jackson wannabe.
Muzan: Who?
Slayer: Oh yeah… early twentieth century.
Grel'Slyfer: I will agree that he does look like Michael Jackson, at least until he shapeshifts a bit.
Muzan: I am the most proficient at shapeshifting.
Argentum: Now that I think of it, can't all demons shapeshift?
Muzan: Actually yes. Just the newer and weaker ones aren't as proficient.
Slayer: Then why do most of them decide to look like a bunch of freaks?
Grel'Slyfer: They do have a rather… disbarring appearance.
Muzan: I have no idea… my people just sort of suck honestly.
Argentum: We can agree on that. But seeing how this has gone on for a while how about you start off this chapter?
Muzan: Of course! Ahem… The Dark Guard productions wishes to, yet doesn't, own anything but original characters and reality building conceptions. Everything else belongs to their current owners. Now without further delay…
Everyone: Here's the story!
Hello= Regular talk
Hello= Thoughts
[Hello]= Radio
(Hello)= Telepathy/Mind reading
Chapter Twenty Seven: How I met another friendly demon or… How I met Michael Jackson…
The fight started as I expected it to, with Tanjiro jumping up to avoid all three demons. "Hachi no Kata Takitsubo!" Cutting downwards Tanjiro unleashed a water fall of cuts on the demons. He didn't manage to kill any of them but it would force them to back off. It was a good opening move on both parties part; however that's when things began to change quickly in our sides favor. As one of the demons jumped out of the side wall at Tanjiro. Nezuko jumped up and literally kicked its head off.
I couldn't help but rub my own neck at that. "Yeesh! That girl has super legs or something." Next to me Kazumi could only nod in agreement. As Nezuko dealt with that demon, the other two launched a pincer attack at Tanjiro. As the kid fended one off, Kanao was quick to fend the other off. As the demons lost their arms in unison, they quickly dived back into their portable swamp dimension. As that happened Nezuko kicked her two horned demon through the wall. Things were not going well for the three demons. After a moment one of the demons appeared on the roof of a nearby house.
It was the two horned demon and it was yelling at Nezuko. "You bitch! Do you just want all five of these humans to yourself?! Is that it?! If you're hungry that's fine! Just let me eat the two pretty young girls!" Nezuko only tilted her head cutely in confusion. "Don't give me that look!" Next to him a one horned demon popped up next to his other self and patted its shoulder.
"Calm down my other self. Be patient, besides I've already eaten plenty of girls from this town." My eyes narrowed as they started arguing, next to me Kazumi yelled up at them.
"What about Satoko?! What did you do with her?!" The one horned demon glance at him before holding open his shinobi coat.
"I don't know who this Satoko is, but if one of these trophies belong to her. Than I have already eaten her." The inside of the coat was filled with hairpins and other ornaments. One of them must have belonged Satoko because Kazumi was quickly consumed by grief. I could feel the anger coming off of Tanjiro and the others at that point. Not that I could blame them, I too was feeling great rage towards what these demons had been doing. Sensing something behind me I cut off the arm of the three horned demon. Screeching in pain it fled back into its swamp.
Looking back I saw the other two dip back down as well. "Well… if anything this is turning out annoying." As I muttered my thoughts the others were attacked again. Unfortunately for the two horned demon, it said something it really shouldn't have.
"The purple eyed bitch is mine!" Yeah he really shouldn't have said that in front of Tanjiro.
Getting into position he took a few steps. "Shi no Kata Uchishio!" Cutting off the one horned demon's arms he struck down on the two horned. Cutting off its head with a look of anger. "Don't you touch her!" Certainly Kanao could've killed it with ease, however the blush and adoration that appeared on her face was rather adorable. Nezuko on the other hand kicked out and sent the three horned demon flying.
I wasn't too surprised by that, I had made sure to train her a little bit. Turns out she was a prodigy in Tae Kwon Do. I mean I only knew a few things from a couple of summer classes I took when I was ten to twelve. But it was still rather impressive. As the two horned demon turned to ash however, a swamp appeared under the group's feet. Both Kanao and Nezuko jumped out of the way, however Tanjiro allowed himself to be taken in.
"Don't worry! My Mizu no Kokyū is perfect for underwater combat! I'll handle the one in the swamp!" As he disappeared the girls could only look on in worry. That's when the three horned demon jumped at them from the wall. Not in the mood to deal with it anymore, Nezuko slammed a leg down onto its back, crushing it into the ground. While Kanao simply cut off the demons head. I couldn't help but blink at that. It was rather brutal to watch. Thankfully they didn't have to watch the swamp entrance for too long. For the one horned demon was sent flying out of it, missing both arms and legs.
Climbing out Tanjiro took a deep breath before being hugged by the girls. "Please don't do that again." At Kanao's plea Tanjiro simply melted and agreed. Honestly I was more curious to see why Tanjiro let the demon live for the moment. Thankfully that question was answered as he walked up to it, sword pointed at its head.
"You never answered my question from earlier. So tell me! Tell my everything you know about Muzan!" I was intrigued to see what would happen here. I knew about the curse Muzan places on his demons, so I was curious to see if the demon figured out a way around it. Besides I knew that as long as the demon didn't say Muzan's name directly he would be fine. Unfortunately the demon froze up and started begging Tanjiro to not make him say anything. The sense of fear I was getting from him was almost touchable. So I wasn't surprised when it jumped at Tanjiro forcing him to cut off its head.
Shaking my head I watched as Tanjiro took the demon's trophies before walking back over me. "I guess I'm going to have to try harder to get information huh?" Smiling softly I ruffled his hair.
"Don't sweat it kid, besides I should probably explain some things myself later, will make getting information a little easier in the future." Tanjiro nodded before walking over to Kazumi who had set the girl against the wall. He was currently in the fetal position crying.
"Kazumi San… I know how painful it is, but you need to keep moving. Even if it hurts, and you would rather die. You have to keep on living."
Despite his advice Kazumi grabbed his haori yelling at him. "What do you know?! You're just some kid! How could you possibly understand what I'm going through?!" I had wanted to scold the man for saying something like that; heck Kanao and Nezuko also seemed to want to tear into him. However Tanjiro simply took his hand and gave the man a sad smile.
Taking out the small cloth case of hairpins he hands it to Kazumi. "I don't know if any of these are hers, but you could give the rest back to their victims' families." Standing up as Kazumi took out a specific hairpin Tanjiro started leaving as Kazumi cried. Sighing I waved at the others to follow, there was no need to antagonize the man any further. As the sun started coming up Nezuko put on her shawl and we followed after Tanjiro.
"I'm sorry!" Turning back we saw Kazumi apologizing. "I'm soo sorry! And thank you for everything!" As we smiled and waved goodbye I could feel Tanjiro grow angry as he spoke.
"Kibutsuji Muzan… I will never forgive you for what you've done!" Sighing I patted the kid's shoulder before speaking calmly to him.
"I get how you feel, but save your strength and anger. You'll need it for later." Calming himself down Tanjiro nodded as Kanao took hold of his right hand. He smiled at her as Nezuko took his left. Smiling I walked to their left side before continuing. "On that note I do have a few criticisms about how you handled the investigation part of this job." He looked at my evil grin and gulped. "Yep! Lecture time kiddo~!" With that I began explaining to him why it was wrong to simply sniff the ground in public.
I am the advanced Line break! All shall fear my technological powers!
Our next mission was delivered to us by Kanao's crow, we were told to head off towards Asakusa Tokyo. I was personally intrigued to see how this particular mission would turn out. I had often heard things about Tokyo in history books, but like with the rest of Japan it had been destroyed. So I wanted to see what the city was like, even though I understood that it would be very different from what mine would've been like. Mostly thanks to the difference in time. I was almost two centuries ahead after all.
This time our trip lasted three days, I took the time when we rested to write in my journal and write letters to my girls, and to keep my promise to Senjuro I also wrote to him. I also finished up Oniki's little backpack. She liked both it and the bow I got her quite a bit. When we finally arrived I couldn't help but smirk at Tanjiro's and Nezuko's expressions. They both wore expressions of culture shock; they had never seen a city so big, or so lit up during the night for that matter. Kanao tried to help the siblings but they were simply dazed. Unfortunately Kanao also became a bit dazed, when we accidentally interrupted a couples "time" in an alley.
As the kiddos apologized profusely with enormous blushes they ran off at max speed. Shaking my head I simply followed them to a quieter part of the city. There was some sort of udon cart and the kids walked over to it, the poor man was shocked to see their expressions, but when asked went about making three bowls of udon.
Shaking my head I paid for the meals and sat down on a nearby bench. The others followed suit and as we waited Kanao and Nezuko leaned onto Tanjiro. Smiling I was the one to get up and hand the udon out. I felt bad for Nezuko however as she wasn't able to have any. Eating mine I had to nod in appreciation. It was pretty good and I quickly gave my thanks to the chef. As we ate allowing the kids to recover I looked up. I could see some stars and I couldn't help but smile at that. Unfortunately that's when I heard the sound of breaking pottery. Turning to my left I was shocked to see Tanjiro standing up, his bowl broken on the ground.
Worried at his actions and expression Kanao questioned him. "What's wrong Tanjiro Kun?" Even Nezuko looked a bit confused, especially when Tanjiro grabbed his sword and ran off. "Tanjiro?!" Narrowing my eyes we gestured to everyone.
"Come on! We have to follow him!" Nodding we put our bowls on the bench and ran after the kid. What's going on?! Tanjiro would never normally run off without telling us what was up! The answer to that question was worse than anything I could've come up with in our short run. For as we caught up to him we saw Tanjiro grabbing a man's shoulder. His outfit was rather fancy, and looked expensive. Especially his white hat and black tuxedo.
When he turned to Tanjiro I saw the man's eyes, they were red and slitted. I knew then that this man was a demon, activating my Lyb'Craeft I hoped to get a read on this guy. I almost wished I hadn't, for I could only feel bile rising in my throat. The man… no the thing had seven hearts and five brains. What's more its power was simply overwhelming. I knew this thing was a demon, yet at the sight of its eyes I knew this monster wasn't a demon moon. I could only come to one conclusion about who this thing was.
"Kibutsuji Muzan…" Tanjiro grabbed his sword and was about to draw it when we heard a sound.
It was a voice that would haunt us for a while to come. "Tou San?" It turned a bit and we could see a little girl in its arms. "Who are these people Tou San?" Much to our growing horror we all realized that Muzan was living here pretending to be a human. A fact that was reinforced when a woman walked up to it.
"Dear what's wrong? Do you know these people?" As Tanjiro covered his mouth in shock, Kanao quickly stood in front of Nezuko. Hoping to shield her from this creature's gaze. She herself looked about ready to simply bolt away in fear.
When it spoke its voice was smooth and charismatic. "No… I don't know any of them, probably mistook me as someone else." Watching carefully my eyes widened as it dug its nails into its palm.
"WAIT!" My shout was ignored as the monster slashed at some passerby's neck. The change was immediate, and the man quickly started turning into a demon. I didn't even see that creature move! At the sounds of a woman's scream I was knocked out of my thoughts as the man attacked his wife. "Hold on!" We lost focus on Muzan as me and Tanjiro tackled the man. As we tried to stop him from hurting anyone else Nezuko and Kanao tended to the bit woman. "Dammit!" Looking behind us I could see Muzan walking away with its "family", Tanjiro seeing this yelled at the abomination.
"Kibutsuji Muzan! I swear I won't let you get away with this! I will hunt you down all my life! I will end you! Do you hear me Muzan!" Muzan's pace seemed to increase at his words. Growling I turned to the man and made a decision. Getting out a knife I cut my palm.
"Hold him still!" Tanjiro's eyes widened but did as I said as I dripped my blood into the man's mouth. I quickly attempted to use my blood as a way to counterbalance Muzan's. Since he was literally just turning I was hoping that our bloods would just cancel out each other's out. Using my Lyb'Craeft I quickly started doing what I could to ensure such an outcome. Around us the onlookers could only whisper in shock and worry. It unfortunately only became worse as the police showed up. Argh! I need a bit more time! Kanao and Nezuko could only look on in worry as the police tried to get us off the man.
Tanjiro tried begging to them to let us keep working on the man, but they refused and raised their batons. Gritting my teeth I decided to simply ignore the pain I was about to be subjected to. I needed just a handful of more seconds to finish off my healing. I was willing to be beaten for those precious seconds. Next to me Tanjiro also seemed willing to do the same, even if he didn't know how much longer I would need. Something I couldn't help but be proud of him for.
Thankfully that wasn't necessary as my eyes saw a change around us. A flowery illusion suddenly appeared and everyone quickly lost track of each other. Looking up my eyes widened as I saw two demons. One was a rather beautiful black haired woman in a kimono, and the other was a white haired boy in a white kimono shirt combo. I could see there was something different about them.
That's when the woman spoke in a soft and kind voice. "I put everyone under an illusion, and yes I am a demon, however I am also a doctor. I wish to help that man whom you're also trying to help. What's more if you still don't believe me, I too wish to destroy Muzan." Seeing how she wasn't being torn to shreds I knew right away that this woman was telling the truth. Sighing I looked down and finished up my work before standing up.
"Alright… I'll believe you for now." Nodding she had the boy take the man as Tanjiro stood up. With one more nod the demon woman left with the boy and the recently turned man. Sighing I turned around and spoke to the others. "We need to get out of here now!" Alright so it was a half shout, but it got everyone to start moving. As we ran I couldn't help but think about what had happened. Just our luck that we run into Muzan on our second mission!
I am the advanced Line break! All shall fear my technological powers!
We ended up in an alley after all the running we did. Looking over at Tanjiro I couldn't help but feel a bit worried. I could see the anger on his face, no doubt feeling disappointed in himself for hesitating. Walking up to him the girls gave the poor kid a hug. That seemed to calm him down as he hugged them back. Letting them take care of Tanjiro I got out some paper, I needed to let Kagaya along with the others know about this development. I could only hope that thing didn't notice Nezuko with us, if it had then all of our planning would've been for naught.
Whistling as I finished my letter Oniki flew down. "Here take this to Oyakata Sama as swiftly as possible. This is the most important letter you'll have delivered thus far." She nodded her black head and flew off at speeds I've never seen before. "Glad we agreed to have Oniki stay with us as the other two deliver our orders." Shaking my head I turned to kiddos and walked over to them. "How are you three holding up? I know I'm still a little shaken from that encounter."
After a moment Tanjiro spoke up. "I felt sick just from being in his presence. I may have remembered his scent from my house, from when he turned Nezuko into a demon. However actually standing there in front of him, watching as he turned some random man into a demon, well it was a bit overwhelming." Kanao spoke up next.
"Just looking at him sent a chill up my spine. Nothing I've faced before could've prepared me for an encounter with that monster." Nezuko simply nodded, though I could tell she was the worse of us. Having been actually turned into a demon by that things hand, would've made her part of the encounter worse. Stepping up them I hugged the kids.
"I get it don't worry. Honestly if it was up to me you kids would have never met him, unfortunately all we can do is use what we've seen to help the corps." As they nodded I let go. "Well I sent off my letter to Oyakata Sama, hopefully this information will help. Even if a little bit." I would've continued but we heard a voice coming from the entrance of the alley.
"Hey! Malcontents!" I couldn't help but blink before turning to see the demon boy from before. "Though I don't know why, Tamayo Sama wants to meet with all of you." I narrowed my eyes and was about to say something when he pointed at Nezuko. "A question, that's a demon you're traveling with right? And an eyesore to boot." For a moment me and Kanao looked at Tanjiro. His mind seemingly trying to understand what was said.
That's when he lost it getting right up in the boy's face. "How could anyone call Nezuko an eyesore?! She was the beauty of our home town! Our Nezuko Chan!" The boy decided to stop caring and simply started walking off.
"Not my fault she's an eyesore, and don't get me started on the other one. Just follow me now; we shouldn't keep Tamayo Sama waiting!" I couldn't help but wince at that, I knew he was also talking about Kanao and Tanjiro didn't let that slide.
He was now dragging both girls along while defending their beauty. "How dare you! Both Kanao Chan and Nezuko are very beautiful! Only someone who was half blind could ever say otherwise! But at least then they'd have an excuse!" As Kanao blushed a seething red and Nezuko just let herself be dragged along I sighed. "Maybe it was just the light! Over there! You can definitely see them better under that light!"
Thankfully we arrived at our destination without issue, and after crossing through an illusionary wall. We saw a rather large house in the middle of a courtyard. Humming we followed the demon boy inside, not before he threatened us to behave of course. I could only sigh at this guy's antics. Once inside we were sat in some sort of meeting room. After a few moments the demon woman walked in.
"Forgive me for making you all wait; I was attending to the man. It is quite fascinating; I know he was turning into a demon. However something seems to have completely stopped, and reverted or more accurately countered the transformation." My three companions all turned to me and I coughed into my hand.
"That would be me ma'am, let's just say my blood has special properties and leave it at that for now." The woman blinked before nodding her head and introducing herself.
"I understand, for now let's begin with introductions. I am Tamayo a doctor, and this young man here is Yushiro my assistant. I had called you three here to not only talk about your encounter. But to ask why you're traveling with a demon, and why you cared so much for the man who was turning into a demon." I hummed for a moment before turning to Kanao and Tanjiro.
"Well you two are the ones with super senses; you believe we can trust her?" At Yushiro's indignant cries at how I didn't immediately trust Tamayo, the two quickly nodded.
Tanjiro turned to Tamayo with a smile. "I can smell that you're a kind and honest person. So I don't see any harm in telling you our story." At Kanao's nod of agreement, Tanjiro began to explain his and Nezuko's story. At the beginning when he told how he found his family slaughtered, Kanao took his hand in hers. Offering a bit of comfort at the horrible memory. Eventually we got to the part where I saved Mukago and then Nezuko's sun immunity.
For a split second there was a look in Tamayo's eyes then the situation hit her. "She can walk out in the sun?" We nodded and she sat back, a little stunned. "That… that is enormous news." The demon doctor seemed to be having trouble wrapping her mind around the situation. With a silent agreement we decided to simply let her process everything. It took a couple of minutes but she managed to pull herself back together. "How many people know about this?"
After a moment of thought Tanjiro spoke up. "So far just us and eight others I believe. Or at least that I know of, there are probably more now." Tamayo nodded before giving us a serious look.
"That is good, however we must keep the knowledge of this as close to our chests as possible. For if Muzan were to ever find out he'd stop at nothing to get at Nezuko." I narrowed my eyes at that as she elaborated. "I don't know if you know this or not, but Muzan has already evolved passed the point of his head being a weakness. You can cut it off but he wouldn't die from it." That got us looking at one another in concern, unfortunately she made it worse. "He can also absorb other demons back into himself. Gaining their unique power and abilities, so if he were to absorb Nezuko into himself than he would truly be invincible."
It was a terrifying thought and I couldn't help but voice it. "I can't even begin to imagine what that monster would do if that happened. Guess we could try and nuke it in twenty years or so. If that thing didn't end the world by then." They gave me an odd look and I remembered that nukes weren't invented yet. "A nuke is an enormous bomb capable of destroying entire cities. But that's not important right now." By their faces I could tell that no one here could imagine such devastation. "Look their only experimental so don't worry about them for now. In the meantime, we need to find a way to cure Nezuko, before the Michael Jackson look alike can absorb her."
No one had any idea who Michael Jackson was but thankfully Tamayo got what I was saying. "Yes I agree to that, to that end however I believe with your help I could accomplish that." Us demon slayers were now paying rapt attention to her. "First I would like to study both Michael's and Nezuko's blood. I believe that they will be key to finding a cure. Secondly I need you all to do something extremely dangerous. I need you all to collect blood from the twelve Kizuki. The demons closest in power to Muzan himself."
Now it was my turn to be nervous, I mean sure I could match Mukago in battle and that was a bit ago. I was much stronger now, however even she admitted that compared to the higher ranking demons she was weak. Tanjiro on the other hand simply nodded.
"If that's what I have to do to help Nezuko than I'll do it." He then smiled. "Besides! If we are able to make a cure not only will Nezuko be helped. But so many others will be as well!" I couldn't help but pat him on the shoulder, a smile on my own face.
Leave it to the kid to think of everyone around him. Next to him Kanao was also smiling with admiration. Probably fell more in love with Tanjiro. That's when things turned sour. I felt it at the same time Yushiro did, our senses being more attuned to such things I guess. So while we tackled those we cared about we shouted at the same time.
""Duck!"" As we flattened against the floor some sort of projectile exploded from the outside wall. Debris flew everywhere as the projectile bounce around the room. After a moment the projectiles retreated and the smoke cleared. Looking out the now destroyed wall we saw two demons. As the male demon with eyes on his hands grinned the female holding temari balls laughed.
"Hahahaha! Look at what we found Yahaba? Three demon slayers, one with a white cape, one with a hooded uniform, and the one with hanafuda earrings! Seems as if we're in luck!"
Her comrade chuckled for a moment before agreeing. "Quite so Sasamaru~! I honestly thought they'd split up and run for the hills. Yet here all of them are." I couldn't help but grit my teeth in frustration.
"Damn! I should've known that monster wouldn't let us get away with seeing its face!" Laughing the one we now knew as Sasamaru, was about to throw her temari at us again. But when a hand landed on her shoulder to stop her my blood froze.
"Patience my fellow servants, for I do believe that one of them is mine."
Growling I could only say one thing. "Val'gin!" Grinning at me with his eyes almost shining was the Abysswalker.
"It's been a while! I hope you haven't gotten rusty little dragon. Else you're about to be in a world of hurt."
I am the advanced Line break! All shall fear my technological powers!
This was not a situation I wanted to be in. I could tell that the two demons were stronger than average, and while Kanao could probably deal with them. I didn't quite think Tanjiro and Nezuko were up to the task. Not that they didn't have the strength to help or even kill both of them, no the problem laid in their experience. I didn't know if they could handle any of the tricks the two would bring to the table. This would put Kanao at a disadvantage if she had to help protect the two. I than glanced at Yushiro and Tamayo.
Then again with all five of them working together, they could take them out without too much injury. Sighing I came up with a game plan. "Alright the situation has become drastic. Tanjiro! Nezuko! Kanao!" They all looked at my in worry as I gave my orders. "You work with Tamayo and Yushiro to take out the temari and eye demons. I'll handle the Abysswalker." I could see that they wanted to know what an Abysswalker was but I waved them off. "I'll explain later if we all survive this." Worried they nodded before getting ready for battle. By then I had already withdrew my sword and had stepped out. "Well Val'gin! Ready to go another round!?"
Drawing out his own longsword he nodded before gesturing to the right. "I would be honored! But let's get out the way of this battle; I do believe they'd just get in the way of our duel." I could agree to that and as he vanished in a burst of speed I did as well, casting mage armor on myself just in case. As we stopped moving we ended up behind the house. "Now then! Let's see how much you have improved! Master Grel'Slyfer wishes to know about your progress."
Getting into a stance I narrowed my eyes at him. "Let me guess… he wants me to be at my best before taking all the power I have for himself before killing me?" Blinking for a moment he gave me a thumbs up before replying.
"You got it in one young dragon! However both myself and Master Nel'Ren do find this foolish. You could easily kill us all if we let you grow too strong, but master Grel'Slyfer is adamant on this. Says it would be perfect revenge for taking one of his lives. We're basically just humoring him for now until his thirst for revenge is sated." I couldn't help but blink at that.
"Wow really?" He nodded a bit sadly. "Huh… well I hope you don't mind if I do take advantage of that."
Val'gin sighed before speaking with understanding lacing his voice. "Yeah, I would be honestly surprised if you didn't. But enough of that! Time to battle!" Agreeing with a shout I charge forward.
Go no kata Enko! I started with a heavy long range attack, however unlike most times where I charged in right behind it. I watched to see how he would counter it, for I had no delusions that Val'gin was much stronger than me. I simply wanted to see how much power he'd be using in this fight. I couldn't help but grimace as he simply slashed it away. So he's using that much power then. Shaking my head I couldn't help but let my eyes widen as he appeared right in front of me. In a blink of an eye?! Blocking his upwards slash, I moved to the left and made a cut to his back as he slipped forward.
It was easily deflected and he turned around to stab at my chest. Gritting my teeth I knocked it out of the way before going for his head. He countered with a flurry and a cut to my own head. I managed to lean back however he still grazed my cheek. I grimaced at how easily he cut through my mage armor; however I also knew the cut would've been worse without it.
"What's wrong?! Can't keep up?!" Growling at the taunt I redoubled my efforts. "That's the way!" I ignored him and simply focused on fighting. I was now expanding large amounts of energy to simply keep up with Val'gin.
Deciding to get some distance I jumped back while using the eighth form. My sphere of flames was easily battered aside but I now had some breathing room. Roku no kata Piasu En! Rushing forward I stabbed at his heart as fast as I could. My sword erupting in flames as it neared my enemy. Val'gin quickly raised his sword to deflect my thrust. Taking advantage of this I switched forms. Shi no kata Sei En no Uneri! As I swung in the circular motion he missed my blade as I rushed passed him. Cutting his back as I did so, a tricky maneuver to be sure but worth the slight ache in my arms.
Of course his wound healed almost instantly, but I wasn't about to let up. Raising my sword I brought it down on his neck as he turned. Ichi no kata Shiranui! My first and fastest form I could perfectly utilize. It wasn't enough however as Val'gin raised his sword to shield himself from my attack. As our swords met a small crater formed underneath us. Knowing I couldn't win in a lock, I pulled back my blade and moved my sword clockwise before striking again. Ni no kata Nobori En Ten! This time Val'gin had no choice but to jump back from my upwards slash.
I couldn't help but smirk as I managed to cut his chest, sure it was a shallow one and it healed almost instantly. But in a fight like this any hit I could land was a good one. I also wasn't one to not press my advantage and dashed forward. San no kata Kien Banjo! As my favored form came down onto of my enemy he waved his arm at me. A gust of dark energy slamming into me, sending me into a nearby wall. Coughing I spat out some blood as I healed a broken rib. Why is it always the Kami forsaken ribs?! Shaking my head my eyes widened as I had to roll out of the way of another attack.
As the wall exploded behind my Val'gin spoke. "I think it's time to mix things up, don't you?" Swinging his sword down slowly I watched as it was covered in dark sickly purple energy. "Let's see how well that sword of yours holds up?" It was only thanks to my Lyb'Craeft that I was able to see him utilizing more of his strength. Otherwise I wouldn't have been able to raise my sword in time to block his attack. I didn't even see him move, he was simply in front of me swinging his sword down on my neck. Running on pure instinct I deflected his slash to the side, knowing full well that any block I made would be broken.
Val'gin then simply pointed a finger at me. Before I knew it a ball of energy formed on the tip and was launched at me. This time I couldn't do anything and was hit in the chest, I coughed out more blood as I felt some organs rupture. As I was sent flying once more Val'gin appeared behind me and slashed at me.
Despite my injuries and position I managed to strike out and divert his sword away from me. I wasn't however able to land and fell on my back and rolled a few meters. Healing myself I looked up to see Val'gin bringing his sword down on my head. On instinct I teleported away and his blade created a crater where I once was. Finished healing my wounds I raised my sword up. It was time to try and regain some momentum. Charging forward I began a form. Ichi no kata Shiranui! As I brought my sword down on his neck, I teleported behind my enemy as he raised his sword to block.
Now from behind I almost had him; however the Abysswalker ducked at the last second. Escaping with just a scratch, before slashing up at me. This time I escaped with a scratch as I blinked away. I was starting to tire from all the wounds I've healed, along with my teleportation. Shaking my head I rushed forward. San no kata Kien Banjo! Bringing my sword down, that's when Val'gin decided to show how strong he really was.
For while I put everything had left into that strike, even using the energy strike skill I copied from Grel'Slyfer. Val'gin did something I couldn't believe could happen. Simply raising his hand my blade met his right palm. Behind him a wave of destruction happened, even blowing off a piece of the house's wall. I could only stare as he chuckled.
"You have improved greatly, however there is still much more for you to learn." The Abysswalker than kicked me, sending me back at the wall surrounding Tamayo's home. I fell to my knees and onto my side as I slid down the wall. Exhausted and out of any magic to heal myself with. Seeing me struggle to breathe Val'gin chuckled. "Heh heh… I suppose I'll see you later, I hope you continue to improve. You've been an interesting fight so far, and I would hate to have to "motivate" you to get stronger." With one final laugh he disappeared in a dark vortex. As he disappeared I felt my vision swim and I blacked out.
I am the advanced Line break! All shall fear my technological powers!
I had no idea how long I was out of it for when I woke up I was lying in a bed. My whole body hurt and I didn't recognize the room. Feeling how I had regained some magic energy thanks to my forced sleep. I used what I had to heal as many of my injuries as I could. It was enough for me to sit up, though I still looked like a half bandaged mummy. Deciding it was for the best I stood up, over to the side were my things. Getting myself dressed I left the small room. I was surprised to see the door I opened led to larger room.
I was also surprised to see a relatively unharmed Nezuko and Kanao, helping to fix up a banged up Tanjiro. "Ow!" At his cry of pain a slightly pink cheeked Kanao, quickly apologized as she continued to bandage him up.
"Sorry Tanjiro Kun, but a cracked rib isn't something to take lightly." The kid could only sigh but nodded in understanding. Off to the side I could see Tamayo and Yushiro looking at something on a desk.
"I have to say, Nezuko's and Michael's blood are fascinating." That answered my question on what she was doing. Deciding to show myself I coughed into my right hand. Everyone quickly turned to me as I waved.
"Yo! How's everyone doing?"
Tamayo was the first both ignore my question and begin questioning me. "Why are you up?! You had several broken bones, and even more bruised organs!" I couldn't help but wince at the sound of that.
"Well… I was able to slightly heal myself up, but I'll still need a few more hours before I'm completely fine. Healing magic is quite useful in that regard." After a few blinks I saw a look in her eye that I was all too familiar with. Oh boy…
She seemed to teleport in front of me with a look of greed. "Can anyone learn this healing magic you use?" I nodded hesitantly as she grabbed my hands, in the back Yushiro looked ready to kill me. "Please teach me then! Having the ability to heal so quickly will be a kami sent blessing!" I could only chuckle nervously as Kanao sighed.
"She's just like Nee San and Aoi." Only having met one for a few moments, and having never met the other Tanjiro only raised an eyebrow at that. Nezuko only tilted her head cutely in confusion. Seeing how they'd be no help, I thought for a moment before answering.
"Well I'll be honest here, I am actually teaching three others right now. I also can't simply stick around with ya to teach you how to use magic. However I can get you started and send notes and tips on magic from here on?" I ended it as a question because I had no idea how the lady demon would take it.
Thankfully she took it well and nodded while letting my hands go. "That would be more than fine. But first I am sure we would all like to know who it was exactly that you fought." At everyone's looks of agreement I sighed before starting my story.
"Alright, I believe you all deserve to know. However! I want none of you to interrupt me or spread what I'm about to tell you around. Understood?" Everyone nodded in agreement even though Yushiro's nod was a bit strained. With their agreement I began my tale, about how I died the first time around, how I was reincarnated, about my adventures, and finally why I was here and my encounters with the Darkwraiths. Suffice to say everyone, besides Nezuko obviously, were in shock of my story. Even the one who had some clue, that being Kanao didn't have any words for my story. "Any questions now?" I dragged out my invitation to the others, unsure on what they'd ask or say.
Tanjiro was the first to recover not that I was too surprised by that. "So you're actually from another dimension?" I nodded my head as he rubbed his chin. "Huh… guess that explains a number of things, like how you know what a nuke is. Not to mention how you're not human, and your magic's." Shaking his head the kid smiled brightly at me. "Honestly while I find all of that amazing, I'm not going to question you on it. You're the one who's helped my precious little sister after all!" His words were enough for Kanao and she nodded with a smile.
Tamayo seeing this also smiled. "I must agree with Tanjiro, only my reason is that you've accepted us. Despite how the both of us are demons." I gave a slight bow to her pacifying Yushiro a bit with my respect.
"Well if Tamayo Sama is fine with you than I can't say anything against that." Smiling we began talking about magic, this time everyone listened in, though half way through Nezuko fell asleep. Everyone even Yushiro couldn't help but pat her head as she curled up like a cat. Honestly it was good to unwind a bit after my fight. Teaching everyone a bit about magic was a huge plus in my book as well. For as I said I absolutely love teaching.
I am the advanced Line break! All shall fear my technological powers!
Argentum: Another chapter done, I hope everyone enjoyed it.
Val'gin: If you wish to see Tanjiro's group fight let us know! We'll make another chapter special for it.
Grel'Slyfer: Indeed! Also congratulations my servant!
Val'gin: Thank you first master.
Yushiro: How does all that work exactly?
Val'gin: We'll explain in future chapters.
Yushiro: Humph! Tamayo Sama is better anyways.
Val'gin: Eh debatable.
Yushiro: Why you-
Slayer: Okay enough of that. I swear we have enough fights going on behind the scenes to wreck already without people fighting here!
Argentum: Yeah… your house keeps getting blown up to.
Slayer: Don't I know it…
Grel'Slyfer: Well gentlemen I do believe it is time to finish this chapter off.
Slayer: Agreed! Yushiro you're up.
Yushiro: Whatever! This has been a Dark Guard production bye.
Everyone-Yushiro: Goodbye!
Slayer: That was a terrible send off Yushiro.
Yushiro: Does it look like I care?
Argentum: Fair point.