The path back to Mount Sagiri was quiet, the morning sun painting the fields in hues of gold and green. After the chaos of the mission, the calm was a welcome reprieve. Nezuko peeked out from her box, her curious gaze scanning the scenery around her.

"She always seems happier after a mission," you noted, walking alongside Tanjiro.

He smiled, glancing over his shoulder at his sister. "Maybe she feels it too—when we help people, when we make things better."

You nodded, the thought warming your heart.

As night fell, you set up camp in a small clearing near a brook. The sound of water flowing over stones was soothing, the stars above twinkling brightly in the clear sky. Nezuko sat by the brook, dipping her hands into the cool water as she watched the ripples spread.

"Nezuko's been through so much," you said quietly, sitting next to Tanjiro by the fire. "It's amazing how strong she is."

Tanjiro's gaze softened, his voice filled with admiration. "She's always been strong. Even before...everything, she always took care of us, made sure everyone was happy. Now, she's doing the same in her own way."

You glanced at Nezuko, her reflection shimmering in the water. "It's hard not to wish things could go back to the way they were, though."

Tanjiro's expression grew pensive. "I think about that too. But Nezuko doesn't seem to dwell on it. She's focused on what we have now, on staying together."

Nezuko turned then, her eyes catching the firelight as she smiled at you both. She stood and walked over, settling herself between you and Tanjiro. Without a word, she rested her head on Tanjiro's shoulder, her small frame exuding quiet warmth.

"She's telling us we'll be okay," you said, smiling as you rested your head against hers.

Tanjiro chuckled softly. "Even without words, she always knows what to say."

The three of you sat in silence for a while, the bond between you palpable in the stillness. It was moments like these that reminded you why you fought so hard, why you pushed yourself to the brink to protect others.

"We'll make it," you said softly, breaking the silence. "No matter how hard it gets, as long as we're together, we'll make it."

Tanjiro nodded, his voice firm. "Together. Always."

The next morning, as you packed up camp, Nezuko wandered through the clearing, gathering wildflowers. She brought them to you and Tanjiro, placing them in your hands with a proud smile.

"Thank you, Nezuko," you said, tucking one of the flowers into your hair. "They're beautiful."

Tanjiro did the same, his smile brightening. "You have a good eye, Nezuko."

Nezuko clapped her hands, clearly pleased with herself.

As you set off once more, the flowers tucked securely into your clothing, you felt lighter. The world might be filled with darkness, but moments like these were proof that light still existed, even in the smallest gestures.