The morning after Final Selection, you and Tanjiro stood in the clearing, waiting alongside the other survivors. Of the many who entered the mountain, only a handful remained, their faces reflecting a mix of exhaustion and determination.

The twins reappeared, holding a tray with a line of black, rectangular boxes. Each contained the unique material that would be used to forge your personal nichirin blades.

"These ores have been chosen specifically for you," one of the girls explained in her serene tone. "Your blades will be forged and delivered in a few weeks. Until then, return to your training and prepare yourself for the road ahead."

You stepped forward, selecting a piece of ore that shimmered faintly under the sunlight. It felt strangely warm in your hand, as if resonating with your determination. Tanjiro chose his with the same care, his expression focused and calm.

As the selection concluded, the twins bowed to the group. "You are now Demon Slayers. Do your duty, and protect humanity."

The weight of their words sank in as you and Tanjiro began the journey back to Mount Sagiri.

The trek back to Urokodaki's home was silent but comforting. After seven days of constant danger, the peacefulness of the forest felt almost surreal.

"You think Master Urokodaki will be proud?" you asked, breaking the quiet.

"Of course," Tanjiro replied with a small smile. "We made it. That's what matters."

The sight of the familiar sakura trees surrounding the house filled you with relief. As you approached, you spotted Urokodaki waiting at the entrance. Though his mask concealed his emotions, his stance seemed lighter, as though a burden had been lifted.

"You've returned," he said, his voice tinged with a warmth that made your chest tighten. "I am proud of you both."

Before you could respond, a familiar figure darted out of the house—a small, pink-clad form that tackled Tanjiro in a tight embrace.

"Nezuko!" he exclaimed, his voice breaking with joy.

You couldn't help but smile as you watched the reunion, your heart swelling with relief. Nezuko looked healthy and as vibrant as ever, her silent but affectionate gestures saying more than words ever could.

As she turned to you, you crouched down, holding out your arms. She  wrapped you in a hug, her small frame trembling slightly as though sensing the hardships you'd endured. 

 "Hey, Nezuko," you whispered, tears pricking your eyes. "We're back."

The next few weeks were spent in preparation for your blades. Urokodaki resumed your training, ensuring that you and Tanjiro didn't lose the skills you had honed during Final Selection. Nezuko often watched quietly from the sidelines, her presence a comforting reminder of why you were fighting.

One evening, as the three of you sat around the fire, Urokodaki spoke. "Now that you are Demon Slayers, you must understand the path you've chosen. It is one of sacrifice and danger. You will encounter demons that test the very limits of your strength and resolve. But remember this: you are never alone."

His words stayed with you as the days passed.

When your blades finally arrived, the excitement was palpable. A blacksmith with wild hair and a boisterous personality appeared at Urokodaki's doorstep, carrying a bundle wrapped in cloth.

"I am Haganezuka," he declared, his voice booming. "And these are your blades!"

You exchanged a glance with Tanjiro, barely able to contain your anticipation as Haganezuka unwrapped the swords. He handed one to Tanjiro first, then placed yours in your hands.

The blade was perfect—its hilt fitted comfortably in your grip, the edge gleaming with a deadly precision. You couldn't help but marvel at the craftsmanship.

"Draw it," Haganezuka ordered.

As you unsheathed the blade, a faint color began to ripple across its surface.

"That's it!" Haganezuka exclaimed, clapping his hands. "Your sword color is...silver with a faint hint of pink. A rare color indeed!"

Tanjiro's blade, on the other hand, turned black, a shade that made Haganezuka hum thoughtfully.

"No matter the color, your blade will serve you well," Urokodaki said, his voice steady.

With your swords in hand, the weight of your responsibility felt even more real.

The following morning, Urokodaki gave you your first mission. "A village to the northeast has reported disappearances. You must investigate and eliminate any demons you encounter."

You tightened your grip on your sword, nerves and determination battling within you. Tanjiro placed a reassuring hand on your shoulder.

"We'll do this together," he said.

You nodded, your resolve strengthening. "Together."

As you set off, Nezuko followed you to the edge of the clearing, her gaze filled with silent encouragement. You turned back to wave, her figure growing smaller as you disappeared into the forest.

The journey to the village was quiet, but tension hung in the air. The sight of abandoned homes and empty streets sent a chill down your spine.

"We should start by looking for clues," Tanjiro suggested, his eyes scanning the area.

You nodded, your hand instinctively moving to the hilt of your blade.

The investigation led you to a series of tracks that ended at a large, dark cave. A faint, foul smell wafted out, making your stomach churn.

"Stay alert," Tanjiro whispered as the two of you entered the cave.

The darkness swallowed you whole, the only sound your careful footsteps and the distant drip of water. Suddenly, a guttural growl echoed through the cave, followed by the sound of claws scraping against stone.

A pair of glowing eyes appeared in the darkness, and a massive demon lunged at you with terrifying speed.

"Move!" Tanjiro shouted, pushing you aside as the demon's claws narrowly missed you.

The fight was brutal. The demon's speed and strength were overwhelming, but you and Tanjiro worked in unison, your movements fluid and precise.

"Focus your breathing!" you reminded yourself, steadying your stance as you prepared for another attack.

Tanjiro leaped forward, his blade slicing through the demon's arm, while you took the opportunity to strike its exposed neck.

With a final, desperate roar, the demon's body crumbled to ash, leaving the cave eerily silent once more.

Panting, you turned to Tanjiro, relief flooding through you. "We did it."

He nodded, a small smile breaking through his exhaustion. "Yeah. One step at a time"

As you emerged from the cave, the first rays of sunlight broke through the trees, painting the village in a soft, golden light.

The road ahead was uncertain, but as you walked alongside Tanjiro, you felt a newfound strength within you. Together, you would face whatever challenges lay ahead—and you would protect those who couldn't protect themselves.