The Dancing Star
Chapter 8
12Thirtypain03
WARNING: This story is rated M for mature-rated content. If some acts of violence, blood, or anything easily triggering make you uncomfortable, please leave and do not read. Any change to a character, when introduced, killed, changed into a demon/human, or more will be labeled in the chapter of occurrence. If a character has died in a chapter, that chapter will give a cause of death to that character.
Urokodaki's House
It was something that caused Giyu to stare at Tanjirou for a bit. And this made Tanjirou terrified.
"Did I do something wrong?" Tanjirou asked as he was observing and smelling the shocked faces of Giyu.
"No, you didn't…" Giyu explained, "We are familiar that there are humans who can eat demons… But a demon eating other demons, that's almost cannibalistic." Giyu added.
Tanjirou looked onward, "I don't know, I had this voice telling me to eat the demons…" Tanjirou explained.
At this, both Urokodaki and Giyu looked intrigued by what Tanjirou was getting at.
"Perhaps you can tell us what was going on. This could be crucial information for us to understand what happens to people whenever they are transformed into demons." Giyu asked Tanjirou.
Tanjirou sighed, "Well the main thing that I think I would say is that we forget our memories."
"That isn't unexpected with the transformation." Giyu theorized, clearly not surprised by what Tanjirou was telling him.
Tanjirou thought. "Well… When I woke up, I woke up in my mindscape. There was a weird atmosphere when I saw me."
"You saw yourself?" Urokodaki asked.
Tanjirou nodded, "I don't remember what happened, but from what I heard someone tell me, it was the eat the other version of me."
"Did you see any differences between you and the person you saw in your mind?" Giyu asked.
"Yeah, he saw slit eyes and large claws. Not to mention the marks on his face extended further down his face. I was told to eat him, so I did. And the next thing I knew, I woke up in the mountain with you trying to kill me." Tanjirou explained.
"So, it seems you still have some retrograde amnesia?" Giyu asked.
"Probably. I try to remember everything, but sometimes I just can't." Tanjirou revealed.
"Well, the fact that you seemingly can consume and eat other demons is intriguing to me," Giyu explained. "It's not against the demon corps, since our goal is to slay dangerous demons. If you can defeat them, then that is rather helpful."
"So it's fine if I eat demons?" Tanjirou asked.
"I guess, but we would have to find out what will happen if you continue to eat demons. Especially stronger ones. We don't know what'll happen. It's merely too early to tell." Urokodaki paused, clearly a bit cautious when revealing this to Tanjirou.
"I see… So should I try and eat more demons?" Tanjirou asked.
"If it prevents you from eating humans, then sure." Giyu shrugged. "I'm not caring until you start to hurt and kill humans."
"Got it." Tanjirou nodded.
"Also, about your breathing technique…" Giyu started.
"That? I already told you, I learned it to help me dance for an extraordinarily long time." Tanjirou revealed.
"What? That breathing technique? You used it for increasing your stamina?" Giyu asked.
"I did, I guess," Tanjirou explained. "It was something I did a lot, and the dance is very close to me. We'd always dance it from sunset to sunrise nonstop, for every New Year."
"From sunset to sunrise?" Urokodaki asked.
"Yes. It took me around 6 months to learn. Even my father was good at it, and he told me I was very good at it…" Tanjirou smiled sadly. "The only thing he ever told me I was good at…"
"Hmm… Perhaps it's too early to assume too much, but it's clear to me that you both have some form of practice regarding swordplay." Urokodaki explained.
"Therefore, we can probably get you two to move onto more complex swordsmanship quicker than many other demon slayers," Urokodaki added.
Tanjirou and Nezuko both looked somewhat shocked at this.
"Father used to make us always swing a sword properly, to try and find our affinities… Is this what we are doing again?" Tanjirou was worried. He didn't want a repeat of what he went through with his family.
Immediately, the thoughts of his father once again onslaught his memories, something Tanjirou did not want to remember.
"Damnit, get out of my head… I don't want to see you Father…" Tanjirou grumbled as he was trying to suppress those memories. He was now alive, and older, whilst the rest of his family were dead.
It was only him and Nezuko.
Only he could lead Nezuko, for she seemed rather cognitively uncertain. Not that he was calling her dumb, but she seemed to be in some form of trance, no doubt trying to struggle between her demonic and humanistic senses.
And so, Urokodaki eyed the two demons.
The two anomalies that he and Giyu had found. The two demons, who were being trained to become demon slayers.
There was no doubt in Urokodaki's mind that Tanjirou and Nezuko were unfortunately placed in a tricky situation.
Specifically, how different they were because of that demonic status.
Unlike many demon slayers who came to confront Urokodaki, and ultimately failed to properly train for Final Selection, they could return to a life and at least live a human one.
They were able to at least go somewhere to be taken care of, or even to provide the demon slayer corps some other jobs.
This was what many of the kakushi were designed for.
Many of them were once demon slayers who wanted to rise the ranks and become like them. Alas, whether it was because of injury, trauma, or other factors, they couldn't continue.
But again, because many have also had losses and tragedies, they couldn't return to what they did before joining, since they had nowhere to go.
Alas, they still had other ways of becoming part of the demon slayer corps.
That, or they became sword smiths, living in the village of swordsmiths to help forge and produce the materials necessary for the demon slayers to kill demons.
There were a lot of different routes many humans could take.
However, these demons? Their only choice was to slay demons.
A demon surgeon or taking care of a human was a bad idea since many humans returned bleeding.
A swordsmith as a demon would be dangerous due to the close work they had to do alongside the sun.
That left demon slaying, which was the only thing demons may be stronger at.
Since they cannot lose limbs permanently and can have extended physical capabilities, this made Tanjirou and Nezuko capable.
Urokodaki could sense that even as humans, Tanjirou and Nezuko would have been very capable.
And for Tanjirou, considering another memory he was regaining, he felt that he was capable, even if he was told it was hopeless, how little he meant, and how without value he was.
"In our family, some of our kids were born with a birthmark on their foreheads. Whilst he wasn't sure directly, it was always rumored within our family that those with the birthmarks became very strong swordsmen or were destined to be very strong. However, they were also vulnerable, in that many demons would target them because of how strong they were." Tanjirou remembers that his father had once told him about the birthmark.
Out of the family, only Tanjirou and his father had the semblance of the mark that they were probably referring to.
But living, he was the only one remaining. The only one capable of passing it on. But even then, he felt incapable of becoming a strong swordsman, as he was always told he was weak by his father.
In a sense, Tanjirou thought the mark on his forehead, the birthmark, was a simple mockery of how incapable he was.
Pushed on by his father, and watching how he was the black sheep, the one always being hurt, the one who had to protect, and yet was feared because of his connections and what he entailed.
He was entailed to always be followed by pain and abuse by his siblings.
And it was all his father's fault. While Tanjirou also held himself responsible for his fate, he also blamed his father for being so abusive when he didn't need to be.
He ran the family on fear because of his actions.
And that isn't to say his mother was better…
But alas, Tanjirou picked up the wooden sword, clearly holding back some traumatic memories that are associated with these blades.
He pushed it back and began to swing how he was taught.
Once again, Urokodaki could see the potential in the two. They had some form of training before.
However, smelling the discomfort from Tanjirou, he decided to just train them as he could, and let them catch up to his teachings.
It was the best course of action, after all.
"Giyu, are you heading out?" Urokodaki asked.
The stoic boy nodded. "Yes. I will visit to check up on the two."
Urokodaki sighed. This was the first time in quite a time Giyu visit him.
Ever since the Final Selection, Giyu had not visited Urokodaki once until now.
And of course, it was only because of the master's condition. Whether the master knew of Giyu's situation personally or not, it made Urokodaki a bit glad that he was at least seeing his remaining, and alive son.
And to think he was a Hashira, it was phenomenal for Urokodaki, to see how his remaining child, had become the successor he was looking for.
But even then, Urokodaki could smell overwhelming sadness from Giyu. Giyu was still suffering and hadn't properly mourned the deaths of those closest to him.
And Urokodaki knew he was partly at fault. He too was suffering and chose to drink himself to cope before he stopped, realizing he had to take care of Giyu.
However, it was too late. Giyu was gone, slaying demons to rise the ranks. Even if Giyu didn't send anything back to Urokodaki, his crow would come by to tell him about his progress.
This was why Urokodaki was so shocked to see his crow come by with a literal letter. It was the first time in a long time did Giyu write him a letter.
The first time he saw Giyu return after his Final Selection. And even if it wasn't because of Urokodaki himself, he was at least glad he could see him.
Even if Urokodaki felt he didn't deserve to see Giyu after he failed to care for him after the Final Selection…
Looking at the two demons, Tanjirou and Nezuko, Urokodaki eyed the two and their swinging.
Around three days had passed, and Urokodaki knew that the two were progressing swiftly.
It seemed that both Tanjirou and Nezuko were both adept at what they were doing.
But this was where Urokodaki realized something.
"That's strange… It seems that even if they are demons, they don't seem to be overly powerful. Not as powerful as I thought…" Urokodaki thought. "Perhaps these two weren't as strong as I thought… Even if they are demons…"
He couldn't understand why they seemed very weak, but Urokodaki decided that he would have to make them do the other standard training protocol that he always made demon slayers do.
"You two. Tanjirou and Nezuko." Urokodaki called out to the two.
It seemed that his calling had caused the two demons to stop and face Urokodaki. Tanjirou had a serious, determined face, that seemed to be hiding the internal fighting he was having in his brain.
Urokodaki could tell that he was having some internal thoughts about something. It seemed to be something related to his past.
"That is probably a good thing. If he can remember his past, then he may be able to give more information about what happened to cause them to turn into demons." Urokodaki hypothesized. "Unless it's something traumatic… Which seems to be the higher likelihood…"
Regardless, Nezuko once again looked in a dream-like stance, which ironically gave Urokodaki a strange flashback, at least for remembering one of his students.
"Nezuko reminds me of Makomo…" Urokodaki thought to himself before he shook his head.
"Anyways." Urokodaki started. "I've noticed something. Despite the both of you being able to properly handle your blades in your hands, during what are meant to mimic tense situations when you find yourself near demons, I've noticed both of your actual physical capabilities to not be that sufficient as demons." Urokodaki explained.
"Wait, what?" Tanjirou asked.
"It's simple. I feel that you two need to perform some physical training. That way he can properly get you two to fight." Urokodaki explained. "Even by demonic standards, you two are weak."
"Now that you mention it, it did take the both of us to handle that demon down…" Tanjirou sighed, "You're right Urokodaki, we are weak…"
Urokodaki didn't expect the demoralizing view Tanjirou had quickly placed upon himself, but he sighed. "I'm not saying you are weak, but rather, you need more strength training if you want to properly train how to become a proper demon slayer."
Tanjirou nodded, "Very well, what do we need to do?"
Urokodaki pondered, "I have an idea for the two of you."
With that Urokodaki brought the two towards a river. It was a fast-moving river that was pushing it towards who knew where.
"Um, Urokodaki, what are we doing?" Tanjirou asked.
"It's simple. You see that rope?" Urokodaki asked, pointing to the sturdy rope that was hanging alongside the riverbed.
"Y-Yes…?" Tanjirou nodded. "Why are you saying this?" He was hoping what Urokodaki was about to do was not what he was thinking.
"You two will tie yourself by the rope, and try and swim against the river's current," Urokodaki revealed.
At this, Tanjirou's eyes widened, as he was not ready to face this.
"Are we supposed to know how to swim?" Tanjirou asked.
Urokodaki shrugged. "It doesn't matter, all you need to do is find a way to push past the current and make it to the end of where the rope can take you," Urokodaki explained.
With that, he walked off.
"Wait! We don't know how to swim!" Tanjirou yelled, but his pleas went on deaf ears, as Urokodaki was already gone by the time Tanjirou looked around.
He only was able to smell Urokodaki, meaning he was within the general area.
Tanjirou sighed.
Picking up the rope, and tying himself around it, he immediately jumped into the river.
Within half second, Tanjirou yelped at the sudden coldness of the water as he felt his body being swept away. The only thing that was preventing him from going further down the bed was the rope, which seemingly was able to hold him down.
"This rope is not made of a typical material… Whatever the material is, it's very strong…" Tanjirou thought to himself. With a grunt, he began to try and push himself against the current, but he knew it was to no avail. The current was just so strong and so rapid, that Tanjirou felt his body giving out.
But of course, he was a demon.
He was able to regenerate his stamina quicker than any human.
And that was what happened.
And as he continued onward, so did his body.
His body was adapting to the intense exercise Urokodaki was making him do.
His body had to adapt. That was how the human body gained muscle. Demons were no different. The only difference was how fast demons could gain strength.
And Tanjirou was going to take full advantage of that privilege. He was capable of learning and managing to strengthen his body to surprising lengths faster than humans.
Whereas if humans overexerted themselves, they would suffer fatigue and aches from their muscles, that was not the case for demons.
Therefore, it was a simple cycle of trying, then quickly resting. His body was being trained.
Once Tanjirou managed to properly make some progress in crossing and fighting the river current, he still was unable to make it properly toward the completion line.
And so, he decided that he had enough training for the rest of the night. He had taken around 6 hours to get to the halfway mark.
In the meantime, Tanjirou decided to let Nezuko perform it now. He decided now it was Nezuko's time to train.
Despite seemingly being unable to communicate properly, Nezuko knew what to do.
This made Tanjirou smile a bit, clearly happy that at least his sister was able to perform things as normal.
In the meantime, Tanjirou went off, to quickly get the wooden swords. He decided that now he felt stronger already, he would continue to properly swing his blade.
While he could easily let his own father's words get to him, to make him feel unworthy of picking up a sword, in the end, he knew that this was his only path forward.
It was almost like his childhood was being prepared for this moment.
"So useless… So worthless… Why did I ever worry about you? You truly are pathetic..." Tanjirou grunted as he tried his best to suppress his memories. It was continuing to impact his overall mental health, but he had to move onwards with his life.
And just like his sister had managed to point out, Tanjirou hid his pain all in a small smile. It was a smile that he held to not make others worry about him.
He was supposed to be a protector for the people he cared for. If he was a failure and failed to protect his sister, then what was his purpose?
He was always told he was of no value, and he was trying to find his purpose ever since.
Now that his sister was still with him, he decided to make sure, in his life, that he would take care of and protect his little sister, no matter the cost.
And so, as he swung his blade in a proper motion, he ultimately knew that he wasn't trying to remember the trauma he went through when trying to continue onwards with his training. Now, he was trying to continue this training, with his goal and determination of keeping his sister safe.
In the meantime, he watched carefully as Nezuko was trying to swim to race against the current. He was once again making sure his sister was alright.
And so, Tanjirou continued to focus on his training.
He ignored the fact that Nezuko was making more progress than him. He was weaker than his sister it seemed, specifically in a physical sense. Tanjirou sighed once again.
"So weak…-" Tanjirou shook his head immensely, as he was trying to focus on properly advancing the techniques Urokodaki was telling him to do.
He wasn't mad at Nezuko for making progress or being stronger than him.
It was something his father would always praise his sister for her strength and hardworking nature.
Of course, Nezuko too got some beatings. There was no way Tanjirou could ever get jealous of his sister. He just couldn't.
He could only hate himself for being weak, and how his father treated him in comparison to the rest of the family.
Tanjirou sighed, finishing his workout. He also saw how Nezuko was continuing to make progress in racing against the current. She was able to swim against it relatively effectively, but it once again didn't mean she completed the course.
She too failed to reach the completion mark.
The two sighed.
"Let's go Nezuko. Seems we should get some rest. The sun will come out soon." Nezuko nodded as the two began to make their way into Urokodaki's house.
"How was the progress?" Urokodaki asked seeing the two enter. It was somewhat dark, considering the two demons inside had to be accounted for so that no sunlight could enter the house.
"Well, we made progress. We were able to swim against the current, but we didn't make it t the completion line." Tanjirou explained.
Urokodaki gave a simple nod. "I see, you two are making progress. Keep it up."
Tanjirou nodded, "Thanks, sensei."
With that, the two went by and called it a night, or day.
The two would probably sleep, considering the amount of energy they had used training their overall bodies multiple times.
Because they were demons, they could also manipulate their bodies, but they first had to achieve it to access it.
Meaning, if Tanjirou and Nezuko wanted to convert into a stronger, more muscular individual, they would have to work for the body before they could "access" it.
With the progress in their extending physical capabilities, Tanjirou knew that they would eventually be able to continue onwards with their pieces of training.
He knew from Urokodaki that they weren't even halfway done with their training. Even if they were demons, Tanjirou and Nezuko would have to give it their all, just so that they would become formidable.
After all, they had to, considering they were demons. They had to prove their worth if they ever wanted to be accepted by demon slayers.
Sure, it was discriminatory, but the circumstances were the reason for this, and neither Tanjirou nor Nezuko blamed anyone.
They didn't blame Giyu for wanting to kill them, nor blame Urokodaki for being rough on them in the beginning.
Even now, Urokodaki was rather blunt and strict. Those were qualities of a teacher. And that's all he was showing.
All this time, Urokodaki eyed the two sleeping demons.
"Guess we'll have to make them do more extraneous training then." Urokodaki thought to himself.
The next day, or night, Tanjirou and Nezuko got up. Urokodaki was waiting for them once again.
"Oh, is everything alright, Urokodaki?" Tanjirou asked.
"Yes, everything is alright. Once again, inform me once you can reach the completion line, then we will continue with your basic training." That was all Urokodaki told the two before he once again left.
Tanjirou and Nezuko sighed.
They knew it would take some time before they would be able to properly make it, since they had to train their bodies to be athletic and muscular, to be able to make it.
It was tiring, but since they were demons, both felt that they could take care of it.
And for Tanjirou, all that mattered was whether he was capable of protecting his sister. Whereas Nezuko just wanted to sleep and make sure her brother was fine.
Ultimately, both had the same purpose, despite different states in their mind.
In the meantime, they both continued to train their bodies, as they knew Urokodaki was waiting on the two to be able to properly train their bodies before they would be capable of learning the next step.
After all, this included breathing techniques, and breathing styles, alongside how to properly swing a sword. Both Tanjirou and Nezuko showed they could perform the latter, and despite Giyu informing Urokodaki that Tanjirou knew a breathing technique, he seemed rather oblivious.
But then again, when weren't these two demons' strange anomalies?
Urokodaki sighed, as he was still deciding on whether he should continue to make them perform the hardest training.
After all, even if they were demons, he didn't want to lose any more students.
And the fact that these two were demons… He had demon students…
Urokodaki felt that the world was playing with him… Giving him demons that may die in Final Selection.
But alas, Urokodaki had to remind himself that the demons probably wouldn't be able to even participate in the Final Selection, due to the area being covered in Wisteria.
The simple matter was that neither Tanjirou nor Nezuko would be able to enter the Final Selection.
With the Hashira's
"Thank you all for coming to today's Hashira meeting." The sound of what appeared to be a calm, yet tranquil man echoed across a field followed by a mansion.
This was the Ubuyashiki Mansion, and the individual speaking, was called Kagaya Ubuyashiki.
He was the leader of the demon slayer corps. The leader of this organization.
Kagaya Ubuyashiki comes from a family that had taken on the lineage and line to serve and lead the demon slayer corps.
It was natural that he was one, mainly in part because the demon slayer corps is somewhat of a family business.
It is not funded by any external government power, though some local donations are given, Kagaya was a phenomenal individual in the eyes of many.
And this included the individuals who stood in front of him.
Seven Individuals.
These were the Pillars of the Demon Slayer Corps.
The strongest of the demon slayers. Hashira's.
They were all summoned by the leader of the demon slayer corps, and the reasons could have varied.
Of course, there was one specific feature on Kagaya's face that made many individuals concerned for his health.
And that was the diseased, cursed mark on his face. Now, it was only around his eyebrows, but knowing the progression of the disease or curse, it was only a matter of time before they reached his eyes, causing permanent blindness to him.
Alas, even with the pain that must have been associated with the curse, he still smiled. He still carried on with his functions and job.
He was a hardworking and caring individual.
Alas, standing to serve him were Seven Pillars.
Seven of the strongest demon slayers for their time.
The first individual was amongst the tallest of the Hashira. However, even then was not the tallest Hashira within the immediate vicinity.
This individual had very broad shoulders and was muscular, which with the sleeveless demon slayer uniform showed them incredibly well. His hair was unique, with some bands reaching below his shoulder, and a headband keeping the rest from interfering with the individual's vision, instead falling towards the side of his head.
This was the Sound Hashira, Tengen Uzui.
The next individual's most apparent feature would have to be the bright yellow hair with flame-like streaks of red across it. His overall smile showed he was an enthusiastic type, with it seeming to be his resting face.
His eyebrows were also incredibly bushy as he and the Sound Hashira were catching up with each other, showing the close bond the two had with each other.
This individual also has golden eye colors, which eventually fade into red the more toward the middle his eyes go.
Regardless, he too was a muscular demon slayer, of above average height, but not as tall as the Sound Hashira.
Rather, this was Flame Hashira, Kyojuro Rengoku.
The third individual had a leaner build compared to the other two individuals. This was sported by the numerous scars across his face and body, which he seemed to have no problem showing due to his very own body being a weapon to use against demons.
Many of his scars were the result of him being purposely cut by many demons, for what lay underneath was a demon's best food, but worst mental control.
Marechi blood. A rare blood type that some humans had, which made demons crave it. It was nutritious to demons, and therefore, they would sometimes go feral at the smell or sight of his blood, which this individual would gladly use to lower the demons' guard.
He had white, spiky hair, a crazed expression, with pale purple eyes. He also had a crazed expression on his face.
This was Wind Hashira, Sanemi Shinazugawa.
The fourth individual was a girl, the first and only one so far. And yet, she stood tall and powerful.
She had a slender build as well, with a pale complex, and red lips. Her black hair flowed below her waist, two strands of it in front of her, with pale violet eyes. She wore a purple demon slayer uniform. However, she was also covered with what appeared to be a butterfly haori covering her sides.
She also walked with a bit of a limp, but despite this, radiated a strong sense of power and experience, for she was the only Hashira to have survived a fight amongst a powerful demon that usually cost the lives of Hashira's before them.
This was the Flower Hashira, Kanae Kocho.
She was next to the Wind Hashira, looking concerned once again for the boy.
The fifth individual was amongst the tallest of all the individuals here. Standing way over 7 feet tall, this individual was also stark in the lack of pupils or iris this individual seemed to have, indicating this individual was completely blind and unable to see.
This individual… Was incredibly powerful and muscular, but also contained some scars. Most notably one across his forehead. He also had a beaded necklace around his neck and seemed t have the appearance of a monk. And considering his gentle giant-like personality, he did fit the appearance and personality of one.
Regardless, he is perhaps the most towering and strongest of all the Hashira.
And even then, even his breathing style was amongst the most unique.
This was the Stone Hashira, Gyomei Himejima.
The next individual, or sixth one, by contrast, wasn't as towering. Rather, he was among the shortest males within the ranks, but that did little to sway him from being powerful.
This individual was rather thin, but muscular despite this, and was relatively pale as well.
He had black hair that seemed rough in its length.
However, the two largest features of this individual were the mask, almost a bandage that he wore, covering his mouth and lower face.
The next one was the strange color of his almond-shaped eyes. His right eye is yellow, whilst his left eye is turquoise, or green. This individual had heterochromia.
However, one similarity this individual had with Gyomei, was that this individual was blind, but only in his right eye.
Not to mention the snake that was always slithering across his shoulders.
This individual was the Serpent Hashira, Obanai Iguro.
The final individual, the seventh Hashira, was one that is perhaps the most familiar. This individual had a lean muscular stature, is pale in his complexion, yet stoic and emotionless in his expression.
His hair is wavy, with bangs, which he wears in a ponytail, for if untied, would fall below his shoulders and be in his visual perception.
This individual had a unique haori and design for personal wear, however. His haori was split down the middle regarding the design. One is a solid dark red colored haori on his right side, while his left had a rhombus-shaped green, yellow, and orange haori.
In complete contrast to Wind Hashira, this individual was emotionless and calm, compared to the crazed expression of Sanemi.
Even the insides of their bodies were completely different. Like Sanemi, this individual too sported some scars across his body. However, his blood was unusual as well, for many demons found his blood disgusting. This individual would use this to act as a terrible stench to demons, which would give him the advantage of slaying them down.
This was the Water Hashira, Giyu Tomioka.
Giyu had found out that demons found his blood disgusting after he tried to fight a demon when he was young, in a failed attempt to save his elder sister.
"May we all wish for you continued health, Oyakata-sama," Gyomei started, as he clasped his hands together in the form of a prayer.
"Thank you, Gyomei. And thank you to all of you, my children. Because of you, we can prevent many needless deaths caused by demons." Kagaya gave the seven-swordsman facing him a smile.
"It is nothing for you to thank us for. We are simply doing our job." Obanai responded to Kagaya's comments.
"Well then." Ubuyashiki smiled, despite the pain his curse may have been causing him. "I've called this Hashira meeting to inform you all of an amazing development."
"Ooh? An amazing development? This better be flamboyant!" The Sound Hashira, Tengen spoke out loud.
It was clear to many that he was amongst the loudest within the Hashira group.
"Couldn't have said it better!" Kyojuro exclaimed. "Though you could lower the number of times you've said flamboyant…"
Tengen chuckled, "Nonsense Kyojuro! But please Oyakata-sama! Please, tell us the development?"
Ubuyashiki smiled. It was times like these that he did enjoy seeing his Hashira Pillars. It was the simple times when they all shined, well, most of them.
He gave a serious eye towards the one Hashira who was staying his distance away from the rest. Tomioka.
But alas, this would be one of the times he'd have to talk to him, considering the secrecy.
In the end, Kagaya started the meeting.
Even though the plight of demons continued, and the demon slayer corps were working hard, people were still dying, and suffering from demon attacks.
However, the plight of demons also brought new soldiers and children into their grasp. The demon slayer corps thrived on the vengeful nature of many people who've had traumatic experiences due to the demons.
Many of the Hashira were no different. They all joined on a similar occasion.
And in a sense, it made Kagaya think that the demon slayer corps was one big family.
"Now that we've gotten that out the way, my children. I would like to proudly announce the introduction of two new Hashira's." Kagaya explained.
"Wait, what?" This got some within the Hashira surprised at the sudden revelation.
"Wait, since we currently are at seven, then that means-"
"Correct Iguro. We will be filling in the spots of the rank of Hashira." Ubuyashiki revealed.
"That's amazing! I wish to see how strong these newcomers are!" Kanae smiled, clearly intrigued by the new introduction of Hashira Pillars.
"Well then, my children, I would first like Kyojuro to do the honors of introducing the first one." Ubuyashiki smiled before the rest of the Hashira turned to face Kyojuro.
"No way… Is your Tsuguko going to become a Hashira?!" Tengen asked his friend, clearly surprised about the developments.
"If I may ask, Rengoku? What requirement did you Tsuguko do to become a Hashira?" Sanemi asked, clearly skeptical about the whole ordeal.
"Great question Shinazugawa! My Tsuguko had merely managed to slay the required 50 demons to become a Hashira!" Kyojuro proudly admitted.
"Seems you Tsuguko has come a long way, huh?" Gyomei asked, "I'm glad, Namu Amida Butsu." The stone giant clasped his hands together as if to pray for Kyojuro's Tsuguko to survive and live a long and healthy life.
"Well, who is this Tsuguko? And why haven't I heard of them?" Kanae asked.
"Oh! My apologies!" Rengoku forgot to reveal. My Tsuguko is Mitsuri Kanroji!" Rengoku smiled.
Almost immediately, a curvaceous young woman, who seemed to be younger than most of the others entered the field. She looked very nervous and timid, clearly the stress of being a new kid in the town.
Almost immediately, Obanai's face turned its gears in reaction to the woman in front of him.
"Wait! You're the one who asked for directions to the master's mansion!" Obanai exclaimed as if he was now picking it up.
Mitsuri chuckled before her face showed that she recognized the Serpent Hashira she had encountered before this meeting.
"Oh right! You were the kind gentleman who was nice enough to help me!" Mitsuri immediately ran towards Obanai and shook his hands.
"Thank you so much for that help! You saved me some embarrassment! Imagine if I came here panicking about if I was in the right place!" Mitsuri chuckled, all the while Obanai's face was heating up and the sheer warmth and open aura Mitsuri was giving him.
It almost made him forget that he hated and feared women.
Almost…
"Well, can you introduce yourself?" Kagaya asked after a bit.
Immediately, Mitsuri's face shook as she forgot to introduce herself.
"Oh! Sorry! My name's Mitsuri Kanroji! I'm the new Love Hashira!" Mitsuri bowed her head towards Kagaya. "Thanks for the promotion, Oyakata-sama!"
The entire Hashira chuckled at the open, almost child-like personality Mitsuri had.
All the while Obanai was trying to deny his appreciation and affection towards Mitsuri.
And who could blame him?
Mitsuri was a very outstanding young woman. That is if you count the unfortunate pervert who designed her haori to have a split down the middle to expose part of her chest.
She was also wearing some navy-blue thigh-high socks. Then, her hair. Her hair was pink with a thread of green near the edges.
All in all, Mitsuri was a one-of-a-kind girl in both appearance and personality, which immediately made her a standout in getting along with the rest of the Hashira.
"Well! This is flamboyant! Congratulations Kyojuro!" Tengen grinned.
"Haha! Thank you, Tengen!" Rengoku smiled back.
Ironically, the two individuals who seemed to care the least that there was a new Hashira were the two individuals who were complete opposites: Sanemi and Giyu.
Both remained quiet, with Sanemi turning his head away in boredom, whilst Giyu just sighed, and stared at the ground.
It was ironic that the two Hashira's who hated each other the most had similar ways of reacting to the same event.
"Well, now that we've got the first new Hashira out the way, I would like to introduce to you the other new Hashira," Kagaya spoke up after a bit of time, allowing Mitsuri to communicate with the other Hashira she would work alongside.
It seemed that Mitsuri and Kanae were going to get along very well.
"This next individual, I will be bringing out on my own, for he's caught out eye the moment he was brought here," Kagaya explained, as out came another individual.
And the look of shock on many of the Hashira said it all.
"Are you kidding me? This kid is capable of being a Hashira?!" Sanemi asked, clearly shocked.
The individual in question that got many of them shocked was a young boy, who was barely in his adolescence.
He was relatively short, with black and teal, almost turquoise hair on the end. Speaking of his hair, it was perhaps the longest out of the males, almost matching Kanae's hair.
Now that they thought about it, this kid's hair was exactly like Kanae's. As for the uniform, it was too large for the boy, who seemed to have no problem with wearing it.
"This is Muichiro Tokito." Kagaya revealed, "He is also being promoted to the Hashira."
"How old are you?" Sanemi asked the kid.
The kid turned his empty pale turquoise eyes, clearly staring at Sanemi now. "I don't know."
The Hashira was dumbfounded.
"Tokito here has participated in the previous Final Selection, and not only did he perform remarkably in that, but he also managed to swiftly complete the requirement to slay 50 demons within two months. As a result, he is a phenomenal demon slayer." Kagaya smiled, "Tokito, can you tell us what Hashira will you be?"
Muichiro looked towards Kagaya before he turned to face the rest of the Hashira.
"I am the Mist Hashira." Muichiro bluntly told them before he walked over to be amongst the ranks of the rest of the Hashira.
"And with that, we now have a full set of Hashira." Kagaya smiled, "I hope you all do amazing things in your life. Remember, even if you are a Hashira, remember to value both your life and the lives of those around you."
"Thank you, Oyakata-sama, we once again wish for your health." Kanae smiled at the master, who smiled back.
"There is one more thing I would like to ask you all. Specifically, Kocho and Himejima. How are both of your Tsuguko's performing?"
Gyomei clasped his hands, "Bless his personality, for he reminds me much of his elder brother." Sanemi hissed his breath, turning away once he heard that. "Alas, he is a determined individual. I can sense a great sense of power in him, despite his difficulties."
"And Kocho?" Kagay asked the Flower Pillar.
"She is performing phenomenally. However, her personality too is too dependent on the coin, I do hope with time she will open out and blossom like a flower." Kanae smiled, "It takes time."
"I'm glad. This concludes the Hashira Meeting, you all are allowed to hang around and befriend the newcomers until your crows inform you of any missions." Kagaya explained before he walked back into his mansion.
Almost immediately, many of the Hashira's began to congratulate the other newcomers, wishing them a stroke of good luck. Even Sanemi joined, only because he was persuaded by Kanae, and not in a forceful manner.
There was one individual, Giyu Tomioka, who once again was alone.
He was never the type to speak to many individuals. He was a man of few words.
And the reason for that was perhaps more tragic than anyone else thought.
Through his trauma, he held guilt, a sense of inferiority, and survivor's guilt. That was enough to mentally destroy a man at what is supposed to be his happiest and most carefree time of life. However, Giyu was always somewhat of a sensitive being, but his lack of connections within the demon slayer corps was ultimately a reality he had to live with.
After all, he only had Urokodaki, whom he only recently got back into contact with. And the reason for this was because of the two demons he found.
Tanjirou Kamado and Nezuko Kamado.
That reminded Giyu. He needed to speak with the master on his own, considering the findings he found.
He had informed Kaguya that he would like to speak with him in private, considering the severity of his findings.
In the meantime, he was waiting for when the master would call him to be allowed inside.
This made Giyu a bit anxious, as he didn't want to be approached by any of the Hashira.
And whilst none of the Hashira confronted him, someone did.
Giyu tried to hide the forced sigh he did when she entered and immediately, approached Tomioka.
"Moshi moshi Tomioka~" Giyu sighed in exasperation when he turned and met the very individual he didn't want to see.
Shinobu Kochko.
The younger sister of Kanae Kocho, the Flower Pillar.
She was a thorn in Giyu's side since the day she was introduced into the pillar.
She and her sister were rescued by Gyomei from a demon attack that killed both of their parents. Therefore, Gyomei brought them into the area, and here they were now.
But whereas Kanae became a Pillar, Shinobu began to focus more on medicine and demon anatomy.
In a sense, this was the girl Urokodaki was referring to when he asked about Tanjirou and Nezuko's strange condition.
It was well known by many that Kanae had a sympathetic tone towards many demons, and even if Shinobu alongside the other Pillars disagreed, Shinobu seemed to want to maintain her elder sister's wishes.
She was a sister who followed closely whatever her elder sister did.
Whether that was personality, goals, or even similar ideals, Shinobu followed where her sister went.
And that made Giyu jealous and hated her.
Partly because it reminded him of his elder sister.
Despite this, Shinobu was incredibly unique.
She was among the few demon slayers that didn't use any known breathing styles but rather created her style.
Insect Breathing. Not only did she focus as a doctor trying to help injured demon slayers, but she also specialized in poisons, so that she could kill demons without decapitating them.
The reason for this was that she was very weak she couldn't decapitate demons.
As a result, she focused on being a supporter, of healing and poison, whilst her older sister was more in dept for sword fighting.
As for the Tsuguko that both Gyomei and Kanae were referring to…
Kanao Tsuyuri.
She is the adopted younger sister of the two of them. They rescued her from being sold as a slave.
In the end, she began to be trained by them to be able to slay demons as well.
As for Gyomei's Tsuguko.
Genya Shinazugawa. The younger brother of Sanemi, the Wind Hashira. Genya and Sanemi were on very bad terms, and despite this, Genya was very insistent on becoming a demon slayer like his elder brother.
Whether this was because he wanted to follow in his brother's role, like Shinobu, Giyu was unsure if they were similar in that fashion.
"Tomioka~," Giyu quickly snapped back out of his thoughts, before he eyed Shinobu staring back at him, poking him.
"What is it?" Giyu asked, clearly not wanting to continue this.
Shinobu gave Giyu a fake smile, "Tomioka, you should try and talk to your other fellow Hashira! Maybe then you would be liked by them!"
Giyu for his part sighed, "I can't talk to them, especially now."
"Hm?" Shinobu looked confused, "And why is that?"
"I have a private meeting with the master in a bit," Giyu explained.
"Is that so? What is the private meeting about?" Shinobu asked, curiosity getting the better of her.
"Curiosity killed the cat, Kocho." Giyu sighed.
"You do know I am not a fan of cats…" Shinobu deadpanned.
"I know," Giyu responded with a retort of his own, though unconsciously. Shinobu did not pick up on this, as she would have liked.
"Well, Tomioka, this meeting with the master must be very important if you were accepted to be taking this in private, away from your fellow Hashira ranks!" Shinobu smiled at Giyu.
"It's a very serious topic that is only specifically designed for Oyakata-sama in private," Giyu explained.
"Ara~, what a disappointment, this is why nobody likes you!" Shinobu chuckled, "You might die alone if you keep like this!"
Giyu sighed, clearly not wanting to be around Shinobu. She was just an annoying little thorn in her side. In the meantime, he was hoping and wishing for some miracle.
And thankfully, the miracle came in the form of Amane Ubuyashiki.
"Giyu Tomioka? The master would like to see you." Amane called out to Giyu, who merely nodded, and began to make his way into the mansion, following Amane.
This caused some of the Hashira to turn their heads at the sudden development.
"Why is the master calling Tomioka privately?"
Giyu ignored the callouts as he focused on his little mission to inform the master about more information about Tanjirou and Nezuko.
Once he made it inside, he was greeted by the master.
"Ah, Tomioka. How nice to see you again, is there anything you need to talk to me about?" Kagaya asked.
"Yes, Oyakata-sama, this is to inform and confirm you got my letter about the two demons I've sent to live with my sensei?" Giyu confirmed.
"Ahh yes. Those two. Yes, I'm aware of the letter. Though I must say… A demon who woke up and showed some semblance of a breathing technique is quite phenomenal." Kagaya chuckled.
Giyu nodded, "Well, I've come to inform you more about your opinion on the matter."
Kagaya smiled before he sighed, "You know of the risk of harboring demons, am I right?"
"Yes. I am aware of this. However, I also couldn't find it in myself to slay them right there, for the reasons I mentioned in the letter." Giyu explained.
"I see, and what are they doing right now?" Kagaya asked.
"They are being trained by Urokodaki in the art of demon slaying. According to him, they are showing remarkable progress, and even some previous knowledge of holding a blade properly." Giyu explained.
"Hm? Do they have a history of demon slayers in their family?" Kagaya asked.
Giyu sighed, "That I'm unaware of."
"Oh well, perhaps we should give these demons a chance, especially if they've gone so far without demons." Kagaya smiled, "Despite many of the overall rumors, some think it's either easier or harder for demons to resist eating humans as they grow stronger… That is poorly understood."
"So do you want to have Tanjirou and Nezuko as experiments?" Giyu asked.
"No, I don't think that is right. Especially if they've gone so far as to not consume humans. If they can go this far, then I'm confident they can continue onwards." Kagaya explained.
"Well, there are some interesting updates that I think would intrigue you," Giyu revealed.
"Oh?" Kagaya raised an eyebrow, "What is this development?"
Giyu sighed and began to tell Kagaya everything.
"You see, Urokodaki found Tanjirou consuming a demon, after defeating him. What is more impressive, is that the demon was found to have massacred another family and was trying to eat the family." Giyu revealed. This was a surprise to Kagaya.
"I see, so both Tanjiro and Nezuko were specifically beating the demon?"
Giyu nodded, "And it seems that Tanjirou can eat demons as a means to gain strength and energy."
"I see. I find that very intriguing." Kagaya explained.
"How so?" Giyu asked.
"Think about it. If the family, they found was a family of four or five. Think about it. The only thing that the demons you took in ate, was another demon… It's almost like Tanjirou is cannibalistic." Kagaya pondered.
"I see… As for Nezuko, she seems to be sleeping a lot." Giyu informed Kagaya.
"Well, I see this as a good thing." Kagaya smiled.
"May I ask why?" Giyu asked.
"Well, from what I'm assuming based on the information you are telling me, both Tanjirou and Nezuko are developing alternative ways to gain energy without eating humans," Kagaya explained.
"That does make sense… Urokodaki and I were wondering why they weren't showing much interest in trying to eat human flesh and blood." Giyu muttered.
"Indeed. The act of other beings eating demons is not unknown to us. Gyomei's Tsuguko is capable of consuming demonic flesh." Kagaya revealed, "Grant taken, demons don't eat other demons, so the fact that there is a demon out there who can eat other demons is very interesting."
Giyu nodded at that, "The more I learn, the more I realize how unique and rare these demon siblings are."
"I agree. You've managed to find quite the demonic pair. The simple fact that they can resist and not be dependent on human flesh is remarkable on its own, but even their current traits are something that makes us hopeful. They may be the key to defeating and disabling the threats of demons entirely!" Kagaya smiled.
"Thank you, Giyu Tomioka." Kagaya, with a bit of strain, got up and bowed down to Giyu.
This immediately made Giyu a bit uncomfortable. "Please master, get yourself up. I was just lucky that I found them before they got up and regained consciousness." Giyu explained.
"Indeed, but if you killed them, we wouldn't be where we are. In the meantime, continue to look over them and update me on their progress." Kagaya smiled.
"Well. Urokodaki has told me that they are very proficient in the art of swordsmanship. Even if they weren't demons, they would have been skilled enough to become strong demon slayers." Giyu revealed.
"I see, but regardless, we need to focus on now and the future for them. I assume that you two are aware of the possibility of them needing a formal test to properly become demon slayers, am I right?" Kagaya asked.
"I am aware. However, we aren't necessarily sure how to combat the issue of the wisteria within the Final Selection. We obviously cannot have them removed for obvious reasons, but it hampers on Tanjirou and Nezuko's progression into becoming demon slayers." Giyu explained.
"I agree." Kagaya responded, "And considering these circumstances, I am willing to find an exception that will allow them to perform a test that will prove their worth." Kagaya revealed.
"Is that so?" Giyu asked.
"Indeed, for because they are demons, they will not only need to perform a test of control over their demonic urges but also to prove their proficiencies," Kagaya explained.
"In the end, what will the test be exactly?" Giyu asked.
Kagay hummed, "I'm sure you are aware of the sometimes-unfulfilled missions led by high-potential demon slayers. Killed before their prime, am I right?" Kagaya asked.
At this, Giyu looked down. It was something he was familiar with, all too sadly.
His best friend… Killed before his prime… He should've been the one to become the Water Hashira, and not himself… Giyu sighed, remembering the fact that he was the only casualty within the Final Selection when he and Sabito took it.
And if that wasn't tragic enough, Giyu knew of the lost children his sensei endured. This included Makomo, which while they didn't go to the same Final Selection as her, unfortunately, was someone Giyu saw as a bit of a motherly figure.
Giyu sighed, reliving the tragedies. If one could think outside of demon slayers, there were countless times when people were taken well before their prime.
Before they could show their fullest potential, an accident or a hit causes this to not happen. Of what they could be…
In the end, Giyu nodded to Kagaya's statement. That was ultimately a very true statement in this tragic world.
"Well, as you know, many of these demons remain out large, not having been killed. There is a void for many demon slayers who were killed by the very demons, who remain alive to this day." Kagaya explained.
Once again, Giyu nodded at that.
He wouldn't forget about the demon that killed his best friend in front of his eyes. And likewise, he wouldn't ever forget the demon who killed his elder sister.
They both were still alive, and Giyu was wanting revenge as much as every other demon slayer.
That was what made the demon slayer corps somewhat effective in its way, with how vengeful it was.
Regardless, Giyu understood what Kagaya was getting at.
"I see, so you want Tanjirou and Nezuko to go on revenge killings?" Giyu asked.
"Indeed." Kagaya explained, "It would be nice for us to clear and give closure to the numerous names of my children we've lost."
"May I ask why exactly we would have them go on revenge killings?"
Kagaya smiled, "Of course, Tomioka. For you see, some of these demon slayers who were killed by demons still have some of their remaining family living around the corps. Either as kakushi or as swordsmiths. They will be informed by crows and the likes that the demons who've killed their family and loved ones would be gone."
Giyu was seemingly beginning to understand what Kagaya was getting at.
"So that they can gain the good graces of the other kakushi and demon slayers, for being the ones responsible for killing demons who've killed others close to the corps?" Giyu asked.
"Exactly. Even if the Hashira go against it, what will they say when there's a lot of kakushi standing up for them?" Kagaya asked. "If they are what they say, and are truly human in their thoughts and instincts, then this is something they can do."
At this, Giyu wanted to make a personal mission for the two of them. "Ah forget it, that demon is ironically protected by a line of Wisteria… There is no way I'll be able to get my revenge so soon…"
"But yes Giyu, I'm impressed with their progress so far. I will be intrigued to see what other progress these two demons will make." Kagaya smiled.
Giyu nodded, "Oyakata-sama, are there any books around that talk about different breathing techniques?"
Kagaya looked a bit confused, "Is this referring to the breathing technique the boy was showing?"
Giyu nodded.
"Tomioka, perhaps you saw it as a mirage…" Kagaya theorized.
"I don't think I did… I wasn't wrong when I talked about these two as remarkable demons, do you think I would be lying about their capabilities of them?" Giyu asked.
"No, of course not, my child." Kagaya smiled, "It's just… The specific breathing pattern you tell me is very unfamiliar that I know of… Perhaps it's of an ancient technique that was lost with time, perhaps?"
"That may be the case, Oyakata-sama," Giyu agreed. "That breathing technique he did was something demon slayers use. Either the family has descendants who were demon slayers, or their father taught them a bit about it, which they miraculously remembered after becoming demonized." Giyu added.
"That is certainly a possibility, however, I feel we will have to put our very own chances on the two demons to perhaps find out and tell us when they've realized or recalled their memories," Kagaya explained.
"Are you sure we don't have any ancient books that could tell us?" Giyu asked.
Kagaya sighed, "The only ancient books I'm aware of are the books located at the Kyojuro Mansion, however, considering the state of the former Flame Hashira, I wouldn't bet he'd be willing to give off any of his books."
Giyu sighed. He was aware of the fate of the former Flame Hashira, who was indeed, Rengoku Kyjuro's father. He had become an alcoholic as a result of losing his wife to an illness.
The specific cause was not certain.
In the end, Giyu decided that it would be best to let the two demons try and find out on their own.
"You are right. Perhaps they'll manage to find out with time." Giyu thought.
"Indeed, for the fact that you found two demons that managed to retain their human characteristics, one through sleeping, and one through cannibalizing other demons, that is remarkable." Kagaya smiled.
"Indeed. The only notable thing that they seemed to have lost, was some of their memories, and the girl cannot talk, having lost her voice entirely."
At this, Kagaya smiled sadly, "Those poor individuals, very well. As long as they continue to make progress and perform remarkable acts, then I will see fit this request, and prepare a separate test just for them, to eventually accept them into the demon slayer corps."
Giyu nodded, "Seems they were unlucky to be exposed to demon blood…"
At this, Kagaya raised an eyebrow. "What is that?"
"Humans become demons if they are exposed to demons' blood, isn't that right?"
Kagaya chuckled, which surprised Giyu. "What's so funny?"
"Humans don't become demons when exposed to demon blood. There is, only one way, or demon rather that turns them into demons." Kagaya explained.
At this, Giyu's eyes were raised at what Kagaya was inferring.
"There is only one demon who can turn humans into demons." Kagaya revealed to Giyu, "And that is the demon king himself, Kibutsuji Muzan."
Giyu's eyes widened in shock, "So… You mean to tell me… Those demons… They encountered Muzan himself?"
"Indeed. This is another reason why Tanjirou and Nezuko are very crucial to us right now… With their help, we may be able to find out what the leader looks like." Kagaya smiled.
Giyu, however, was told this information by Tanjirou.
He remembers this very well. He once asked the demon boy what the demon he thought attacked them looked like.
And to Giyu's shock, the boy answered him.
"Red plum eyes… Fedora… Suit and tie…" Giyu told Kagaya.
Kagaya's eyes widened at that. "What?"
"Red plum eyes, a fedora, with a suit and tie… That's what Tanjirou told me about the demon that attacked him." Giyu revealed.
Kagaya's eyes were wide as they could be, considering he had just gotten some form of a description of Muzan.
It wasn't enough, but it was something. They had some information on the demon king now.
"That's… That's amazing Giyu… Thank you so much for the information… Any information we have about him and his whereabouts is crucial for us to eventually end him!"
Giyu nodded, "I'm glad I could be of help… Thought-"
"Tomioka." Kagaya's voice turned serious. "I know what you are about to say."
"Huh?" Giyu pondered.
"But I'm glad you didn't get there earlier. We would have lost you if you had made it. Just be glad that despite the two being demons, they can at least become demon slayers." Kagaya tried to soothe Giyu, who merely nodded.
"Thanks, Oyakata-sama," Giyu thanked the master.
"I think this finishes our private meeting, am I right?" Kagaya asked.
"Yes, this is all I have to inform you about when it comes to Tanjirou and Nezuko," Giyu explained and revealed.
"Very well, I will see you next time, hopefully. Take care of yourself." Kagaya gave Giyu a smile.
Giyu nodded, and responded, "Take care of your health too, master."
With that, Giyu made his way outside the mansion, where he was hoping many within the Hashira were gone.
Considering Mitsuri and Muichiro's introduction, Giyu assumed that many within the corps or Hashira were somewhere away celebrating the rise of their ranks, and the increasing numbers.
In the meantime, once Giyu made it out, he was immediately met with the watchful eyes of someone.
And it was the one individual he didn't want to see.
"Ara ara Tomioka, you took your time talking to Oyakata-sama," Shinobu smiled at Giyu. Giyu could tell that behind that smile, was some hidden anger that she was about to unleash on her.
Giyu sighed, "Where are the others?" At this point, he steeled himself, knowing very well Shinobu was about to drag him to probably hang out with more of the Hashira, which he knew would be a lost cause.
After all, it would just consist of Sanemi and Obanai giving him glares and insults, all the while Shinobu kept teasing him.
It was somewhat annoying, but Giyu knew that at least it kept him entertained from the mundane life he bore.
After all, after everything he had let happen on his watch, he thinks he doesn't deserve to have a happy life, not when people sacrificed themselves for him…
A.N / Alright! Chapter 8 is done! I'm pretty content with this chapter. I will try and split the training to also have other stuff going on behind the scenes, as I want to develop the characters well and give everyone a piece of the pie spotlight. That way, we can have a proper understanding of everything that is going on, and that there aren't some things being confused for the questions. In the end, Giyu will play a larger role.
One thing I want to mention is that I've decided to expand upon the opposites of Sanemi and Giyu. Whereas Sanemi has blood that many demons find entrancing and nutritious, Giyu has the complete opposite. Giyu has blood that many demons find repulsive, and not worth drinking. It's a simple change like this that makes me like and wish Giyu and Sanemi truly represented the complete opposites. Sanemi is a crazed individual, in contrast to Giyu's calm and collected personality. The reality is that both are similar, but also broken mentally. It's a nice dimension of characters. In addition, Giyu is younger here than in canon, only being a year older than Shinobu.
Finally, Kanae is alive in this story. However, I've alluded that she was critically injured during her fight against Upper Moon 2 Douma. I could try and place a fight between Kanae and Douma in a flashback if necessary. However, the significance of this is that Douma develops an obsession with Kanae and Shinobu that he wants to absorb them. Douma is more significant in the future, don't worry. She is strong, but as alluded to, she walks with a bit of a limp because of her fight with Douma.
Character Profile:
Giyu Tomioka: Male, 17 years old
Status: Alive, Human
Height: 5'10" (178cm)
Weight: 155Ibs
Mitsuri Kanroji: Female, 17 years old
Status: Alive, Human
Height: 5'6" (167cm)
Weight: 123Ibs
Obanai Iguro: Male, 19 years old
Status: Alive, Human
Height: 5'4" (163cm)
Weight: 118Ibs
Sanemi Shinazugawa: Male, 19 years old
Status: Alive, Human
Height: 5'11" (180cm)
Weight: 167Ibs
Gyomei Himejima: Male, 25 years old
Status: Alive, Human
Height: 7'3" (222cm)
Weight: 290Ibs
Muichiro Tokito: Male, 12 years old
Status: Alive, Human
Height: 5'1" (155cm)
Weight: 115Ibs
Kyojuro Rengoku: Male, 18 years old
Status: Alive, Human
Height: 177cm (5'10")
Weight: 160Ibs
Kanae Kocho: Female, 18 years old
Status: Alive, Human
Height: 5'7" (170cm)
Weight: 130Ibs
Tengen Uzui: Male, 20 years old
Status: Alive, Human
Height: 6'6" (198cm)
Weight: 210Ibs
Shinobu Kocho: Female, 16 years old
Status: Alive, Human
Height: 5'0" (152cm)
Weight: 92Ibs
Abilities:
Giyu Tomioka:
Water Breathing
Emotional Suppression
Sensitivity to Liquids and Fluids
Trained Physical Capabilities
Repulsive Blood: Giyu's blood is the opposite of Sanemi's. Giyu's blood is considered rare as well as many demons find his blood to smell disgusting, and not nutritious. This makes Giyu unique in not being ideal in being consumed by many demons. This gives Giyu the chance to unleash his blood to weaken demons trying to attack him.
Mitsuri Kanroji:
Love Breathing
High Muscle Mass: Mitsuri's body has a higher concentration of muscle, around 8 times higher than the average human body. This is compensated by the fact she needs to eat a lot.
Obanai Iguro:
Serpent Breathing
Sensitivity to Vibrations: Because Obanai is partially blind, he has a higher sense of vibration detection than many humans. This allows him to be able to detect those sneaking up on him based on footsteps.
Low appetite: Obanai's small stature allows him to go through long periods without food.
Kaburamaru: A snake that resides on his neck, he serves as an extra sense for helping him avoid and dodge demon attacks.
Sanemi Shinazugawa:
Wind Breathing
Marechi Blood: Sanemi's blood is the opposite of Giyu's. Sanemi's blood is considered rare as well as many demons find his blood to smell entrancing and very nutritious. This makes Sanemi unique in that he can stun other demons, giving Sanemi the opening to strike demons down now.
Gyomei Himejima:
Stone Breathing
Enhanced Senses, except vision: Because of Gyoemi's blind nature, Gyomei's other senses are stronger than the average human to compensate for this.
Muichiro Tokito:
Tsugikuni bloodline: Muichiro is a descendant of the Tsugikuni clan, which is a legendary group of demon slayers that are exceptionally skilled in swordsmanship.
Mist Breathing
Shinobu Kocho:
Insect Breathing
High Medical IQ: Shinobu's experience with medicine and poisons allows her to be a very unpredictable demon slayer, as she doesn't need to decapitate demons to kill them.
Kyojuro Rengoku:
Flame Breathing
Kanae Kocho:
Flower Breathing
High Medical IQ
Enhanced Vision: Flower breathing is a breathing style that emphasizes the vision of a user. This means Kanae's vision is stronger than many other humans.
Tengen Uzui:
Sound Breathing
Sensitivity to Vibrations: Because of his emphasis on hearing and sound, Tengen can sensitively detect others based on their steps, and ground, and air vibrations.