NO HOME RUN, BABY? — CHAPTER #55 — THEN YOU BETTER RUN HOME, LAZY!

————————————————————————
Little note:
Why does Murata looks like Yuta (jjk)🙁🙁🙁🙁
————————————————————————

Nine days had elapsed since the intense clash with Upper Moon Six, and remarkably, you had emerged physically unscathed, as if the battle had never taken place. The past week and a half had been a mix of ordinary routines and forming unexpectedly close bonds with Uzui and his wives. They had even gone as far as inviting you to live with them, a gesture thwarted by Shinobu's intervention.

Despite the outward calm, a gnawing sense of unease persisted within you. The alteration of events in the timeline left you unsettled, especially with Muzan's ominous presence looming in your thoughts. What were his intentions now? How would he respond to the changes? You had been eager to prepare for whatever might come, but found yourself at a loss on where to begin.

Trying to figure things out, you had reached out to Gyutaro and Daki, hoping for insight or assistance. Gyutaro might have possessed some knowledge or strategy, but Daki's newfound detachment from Muzan perplexed you. She had claimed to have severed her connection with him completely, unable to sense his presence or communicate with him—a feat previously achieved only by Nezuko and Tamayo. How she had managed this had remained a mystery, leaving you with more questions than answers.

...

You sighed. You'll really have to work your ass off to solve this mystery—

"(Y/N)!!"

"Huh?" Startled by the sudden yell of your name, you scanned the room to find Daki as the source. "Oh, sorry! What were you saying again?"

"..." Instead of responding, she shot you an angry stare, her eyes seemingly trying to bore into your soul. You both sat on the floor in her room, the daylight streaming in through the windows but being blocked by the curtains.

"I said I'm sorry. I got a bit distracted. Don't take it personally." You chuckled, reaching to ruffle her hair, which softened her expression momentarily as she fought back a smile.

"Alright, alright. Stop ruffling my hair." She laughed, gently moving your hand away. "I just noticed that you have been a bit... distracted lately. Like you're daydreaming a lot."

"I have?" You tilted your head, genuinely unaware.

"You have," she confirmed, crossing her arms. "I'm worried, you know? Is there something on your mind? You can tell me!"

"Me? Pff—I'm okay." You laughed, brushing off her concern. "I think you're seeing things!" With a playful boop on her nose, you attempted to divert the conversation.

"What!? I'm not!" She gasped while clutching her chest, offended of your accusation. "And don't boop my nose!"

"You are〜!! Are you worried about today?" You deftly shifted the conversation, subtly reminding her of the upcoming event. Her reaction was palpable, her demeanor suddenly tense.

"I-I'm not worried. Nonsense!" She crossed her arms defensively, avoiding your gaze.

"..."

Eventually, she sighed, her shoulders slumping. "Okay. I am a tiny bit worried, that's all."

"Why's that? It's not like Shinobu will hurt any of you!"

"IF SHE TOUCHES DAKI, I'LL MURDER HER!" Gyutaro's sudden outburst jolted both you and Daki, his voice seething with anger. Today, Shinobu had invited Daki and Gyutaro to her laboratory for analysis—a seemingly innocuous gesture involving various blood tests and a chance to break the ice. Though it was meant to be a casual affair, both parties seemed apprehensive. Shinobu had explained the idea to you and extended an invitation for your support, hoping it would ease their nerves.

True to form, you readily agreed to accompany them.

"Brother! Shut the fuck up! Don't say that kind of stuff!" Daki scolded him, delivering a swift smack to the back of his head. Nezuko couldn't help but giggle at the sibling squabble unfolding before her.

"What the hell?! I'm defending you!" Gyutaro exclaimed, offended by her reaction.

"But not like that! We need to learn how to live with them! Saying that kind of stuff goes against what we're trying to achieve—getting them to tolerate us!" Daki argued passionately.

"I couldn't care less about inferior humans!" Gyutaro retorted with a hint of sass, crossing his arms defiantly.

"Hmh! Hmhmh!" Nezuko interjected eagerly, joining the conversation.

"Exactly! Thank you!" Daki felt a surge of relief having someone on her side, vindicating her stance to her brother. She patted Nezuko's head as a sign of approval.

"Fuck you, Nezuko. Don't come crying to me when you have no one else to play with." Gyutaro's words cut through Nezuko like a knife, her eyes welling up with tears.

"Mhmhmhmh!!!" She cried out, her sobs muffled by her muzzle, feeling utterly betrayed.

"Great! You made Nezuko cry, you monster!" Daki scolded him, pulling Nezuko into a comforting embrace. Nezuko's tears only flowed harder. "You're grounded!! Go sit in the corner and think about your actions!"

...

"..." Gyutaro watched the scene unfold with a heavy sigh, his expression conveying his exhaustion with the situation. He turned to you, silently conveying his frustration. "...Are you seeing what I have to go through every. fucking. day?"

"No offense, but this is funny," you chuckled, finding the situation somewhat amusing. Nezuko's behavior around Gyutaro suggested a dynamic akin to that of a younger sister, her demeanor taking on a more playful and childlike tone in his presence. You couldn't help but wonder if this shift was due to Tanjiro's absence. It was likely that she missed her brother dearly, his comforting presence serving as a source of security. As you observed Nezuko interact with Gyutaro, a pang of empathy washed over you, realizing that despite the company of him and Daki, she must still feel a deep sense of loneliness without Tanjiro by her side. You eagerly anticipated the day when he would awaken and reunite with her, bringing back the familiar warmth she longed for. "Alright, alright, let's put an end to this."

You gently separated Nezuko from Daki, advising her to not be so intense all the time. Nezuko crossed her arms, looking disappointed at the prospect of causing less mischief. While you were at it, you scolded Daki as well, urging her to tone down her conflicts with Gyutaro. Upper Moon Six seemed momentarily pleased that you were taking his side, but rolled his eyes as soon as he became the target of your scolding, chiding him for his negativity and urging him to be less of a hater for once.

"Okay! We're ready to go!! Shinobu must be waiting for us!" You announced cheerfully, clapping your hands together. Daki was nervous yet eager to gain Shinobu's approval, while Gyutaro appeared the polar opposite, preferring death over the impending ordeal. "Bye, Nezuko! See you later!"

You waved at Nezuko, who returned the gesture cheerfully. As you watched her, a pang of guilt washed over you at the thought of leaving her alone. Before leaving, you approached Nezuko again, drawing curious gazes from the demons present.

You took a moment to prepare yourself before shouting, "DODO!!!!! COME HERE!!!" In a matter of seconds, your cute crow came flying to your side and perched on your hand. "Hello, cutie!!!" you chirped, showering him with attention. "I have a task for you!! You know Nezuko, right? Keep her company while I'm gone."

"Okay!" Dodo replied promptly, flying off and settling himself on Nezuko's head. She blinked in surprise, not expecting this turn of events.

"...?" She tilted her head, waiting for an explanation.

"I just don't want you to be alone. We'll come back," you assured her, giving her shoulder a gentle pat and flashing her a warm smile. Your energy seemed to infect her, eliciting a smile in return. With that, you, Gyutaro, and Daki headed outside, leaving Nezuko and Dodo alone.

As you stepped outside, the first thing that caught your eye was the presence of the Kakushi guards stationed at the door—those same individuals who had previously insulted you. You couldn't help but notice the glares they shot your way, their mouths twitching with the desire to hurl insults your direction. However, they remained eerily silent, a testament to Shinobu's explicit orders forbidding them from engaging with you. It seemed Kanao had filled her in on your previous encounter, ensuring it wouldn't repeat itself. How satisfying to see them restrained by Shinobu's directive—oh, the sweet taste of victory!

You couldn't resist sticking your tongue out at them, relishing in their frustration as they longed to retaliate but were unable to do so. Hah, losers indeed.

"(Y/N)!!" Daki's urgent call snapped you out of your victorious reverie, prompting you to turn around to see what she needed. "Help us!! We need to walk cautiously to avoid direct contact with the sunlight!"

"Exactly, dumbass!" Gyutaro's sharp retort served as a reminder of your oversight.

"Oh, right, coming!" You hurried to their side, positioning yourself as a shield against the harsh sunlight. The brightness was almost blinding, causing you to wonder why Shinobu hadn't scheduled this outing for nighttime. Then it dawned on you—she was still a demon slayer, and her work primarily took place under the cover of darkness. Duh.

After a few more minutes of walking, you finally arrived at your destination—a spacious room where Shinobu conducted examinations and experiments on her patients. You knocked on the door before hearing Shinobu's soft voice granting you permission to enter. With Daki and Gyutaro in tow, you stepped inside.

"Well, hello, you three! Good morning!" She greeted warmly, her usual demon slayer uniform replaced by a pristine white lab coat that trailed down to her knees. Despite the change in attire, she looked as stunning as ever.

"Hi, Shinobu! How are you doing today?" You asked eagerly, your enthusiasm palpable.

"Hello, (Y/N)! I'm doing great! Excited for this little experiment!" She laughed, clapping her hands together as she cast a fond gaze at Daki and Gyutaro, who seemed to be hiding behind you. Despite the room's ample curtains allowing them freedom of movement, they chose to remain sheltered behind you. Were they scared? What could possibly frighten them? (The answer, evidently, was Shinobu). "Thank you both for coming! I wasn't expecting you to agree to my request for examination and testing, but I'm delighted you did!"

"Y-Yeah, I'm excited too! R-Right, brother?" Daki stuttered nervously, seeking support from Gyutaro, who seemed lost in his own thoughts. "Gyutaro!!"

"Huh?!" Gyutaro snapped back to attention, his mind preoccupied with thoughts of impending doom. There was something undeniably ominous about Shinobu. Despite her petite stature, she exuded a sinister aura that even surpassed some of the Hashira. How was that possible? "Oh, yeah, uh, excited as well."

"Fu-Fu, I'm delighted we're all sharing the same sentiment," Shinobu chimed in with a somewhat eerie smile, causing Gyutaro to shudder. You felt his hand grip yours tightly, a silent plea for escape.

"Hey, (Y/N), let's bail. That woman will murder us," Gyutaro whispered urgently.

"She will not!!! ...I think?" You replied with a puzzled tilt of your head. Surely she wouldn't resort to murder, right?

"You think?! That's it, I'm leaving!" Gyutaro made a move to exit, but Daki intervened, grabbing his arm.

"Stop acting like this! We must have faith!" Daki's words lacked conviction as she trembled slightly.

"Oh yeah, I faithfully believe that THAT WOMAN WILL KILL US!" Gyutaro pointed accusingly at Shinobu, whose smile grew eerier as she carefully donned a pair of gloves.

"Stop acting like this! You're embarrassing me!" You scolded Gyutaro, feeling a sense of shame wash over you at his behavior. Despite Shinobu's occasional intimidating demeanor, you knew she was actually a kind-hearted person.

"I don't give a fuck," He retorted bluntly, prioritizing his own feelings over yours. "Let's go, Daki—wait, DAKI?" His call for his sister was interrupted by the surprising sight of her attempting to engage with none other than Shinobu.

"Daki, what are you doing?" His voice carried a note of disbelief as he watched his sister tentatively approach Shinobu.

"I-I'm just trying to be friendly!!" Daki replied, her voice tinged with nervousness. "S-So! Um, how old are you?"

"21!" Shinobu answered without skipping a beat. "And you?"

"Ohh, that's young! ...I think." Daki thought at loud, but then regained her composure when she noticed that Shinobu had asked her a question. "I'm 113 years old!"

"Oh, wow..." Shinobu said in a monotonous tone. She observed the exchange with a keen eye, sensing Daki's genuine effort to extend an olive branch. Summoning all her inner strength and setting aside her deep-seated hatred for demons, she decided to make an exception. "Well, Daki," She greeted, her tone surprisingly warm. "Despite everything, I appreciate your attempt at civility."

Daki's eyes widened in surprise at Shinobu's unexpected response, a glimmer of hope flickering within her. Gyutaro remained skeptical, his gaze shifting warily between his sister and Shinobu. He couldn't understand why Daki would bother trying to engage with someone like her, but he couldn't deny the sense of relief that washed over him seeing his sister make an effort to bridge the gag, making him that maybe he should try it too instead of resorting to hostility.

"I'm sorry for my brother's rudeness," Daki apologized, shooting Gyutaro a reproachful glance. "He can be a bit... difficult."

Shinobu offered a reassuring smile, her eyes softening. "No need to apologize. I understand that adjusting to new situations can be challenging." She said, also speaking for herself.

"..." Gyutaro remained silent, his arms crossed defensively as he observed the interaction, still behind you. Despite his skepticism, a part of him couldn't help but feel a twinge of curiosity about Shinobu's unexpected kindness towards his sister.

As the tension gradually dissipated, Shinobu gestured towards the examination table. "Shall we begin?" she asked, her tone gentle yet firm.

Daki nodded eagerly, a sense of determination settling over her. "Yes, let's!" You smiled at her cute and energetic demeanor. Was this the same woman who got mad at everything through chapters #37—#40 and almost tried to kill you and your gang?

Gyutaro followed reluctantly, his guard still up but his curiosity piqued. Maybe, just maybe, Shinobu wasn't as terrifying as he had initially thought?

As the atmosphere gradually lightened, a sense of relief washed over you. The tension that had previously hung thick in the air seemed to dissipate. Seeing Daki and Shinobu engage in conversation, albeit cautiously, filled you with a quiet sense of happiness. Perhaps there was hope for understanding and cooperation between demons and demon slayers after all! Yiipe!

Just as you began to relax into the newfound ease, Gyutaro surprised you by mustering the courage to speak up. His question hung in the air, breaking the fragile tranquility. "...What kind of tests will you be conducting on us?" he inquired shyly, grabbing your shoulders from behing and his voice betraying a hint of apprehension.

Shinobu turned around, revealing a tray filled with comically oversized needles, her expression remaining calm yet determined. "Blood tests," she replied matter-of-factly, her gaze meeting Gyutaro's.

"...Fuck me." He groaned in disbelief. The tension returned in full force, the absurdity of the situation hitting you like a ton of bricks. You couldn't help but stifle a nervous giggle as you watched Gyutaro's and Daki's eyes widen in horror at the sight of the needles.

At the end, the tests proved to be surprisingly painless. Despite the initial apprehension, Gyutaro and Daki braved the giant needles with relative ease, much to their relief. The good news didn't end there—contrary to expectations, they actually managed to hit it off with Shinobu quite well.

New friendship perhaps?

——————————————————————

It was hard to believe that a whole month had passed since the intense battle against Daki and Gyutaro. Time had flown by swiftly. In the aftermath, some things had changed—Uzui and his wives bid farewell, reluctantly leaving (being kicked out by Shinobu) the butterfly mansion to attend to their duties. It turned out they had fully recovered within a week but chose to linger, not wanting to part ways with you just yet. While their absence left a void, they still made frequent visits, brightening up your days with their infectious energy.

Meanwhile, the dynamics between Daki, Gyutaro, and Nezuko had undergone a surprising transformation. You had expected animosity and friction, but to your amazement, they had formed an unlikely bond. Gyutaro, while still cautious and somewhat pessimistic, had softened his hostility. Daki remained her spirited self, radiating positivity, while Nezuko's gentle demeanor hadn't changed a bit.

As for your own progress, you had embarked on a journey of self-improvement. Two weeks into training under the watchful eye of Kanao and Aoi, your efforts were paying off. They had commended your excellent form and noted that you had grown stronger, even if the changes weren't immediately visible. You had become quite formidable, though you remained humble about your achievements.

Morning found you engrossed in your usual training routine, sparring with Kanao in a one-on-one match. Your movements were fluid and precise, but there was a missing piece to the puzzle. Before you knew it, Kanao had deftly exploited an opening, sending you tumbling to the ground with a graceful maneuver. Aoi declared Kanao the winner, albeit with a hint of awkwardness. "Kanao was the winner... again... for the fourth time...!" She announced, her tone a mix of admiration and bemusement.

You lay on the floor, your face buried in your hands as you groaned in frustration. What was happening to you? This week had been a mess—your movements sloppy, your mind scattered, and your focus nonexistent. It was unlike you, and the worry etched on everyone's faces only intensified your own concern. Even Shinobu had conducted a checkup, but to no avail; physically, you were fine. Kanao hovered nearby, her expression a mix of concern and helplessness as she stood by your prone form.

"Um, (Y/N)...? Are you okay?" Her voice broke through the haze of your thoughts, her concern palpable.

"Yes," you replied, the lie slipping easily from your lips.

Seeing that you were in no mood to talk, Kanao reluctantly left you alone and approached Aoi instead. "Hey, do you know what's wrong with her?" she inquired, her worry evident.

Aoi's expression mirrored Kanao's concern as she glanced back at you. "She's feeling down because Tanjiro, Inosuke, and Zenitsu haven't woken up yet. She mentioned it a few days ago."

"Oh..."

And it was true. You missed them terribly. Their absence weighed heavily on your mind, casting a shadow over your days. Sure, you enjoyed spending time with Uzui and his wives, as well as the butterfly girls. Daki, Gyutaro, and Nezuko brought you joy, and interacting with the characters from Demon Slayer was always a delight. But it wasn't the same. Those three—the first friends you made in this world—had left a void that no one else could fill. It felt like a part of you had been ripped away, leaving you feeling hollow and incomplete. It felt like a part of you had been ripped away, leaving you feeling hollow and incomplete. How was it possible thar they were still in a coma? What of they are dead? On the original timeline, only Tanjiro was the one who fell on a coma for so long—not they three of them!

You couldn't help but reminisce about the moments shared with each of them. Zenitsu's melodramatic antics and his declaration of loyalty to you, Inosuke's wild antics and the joy of teaching him new things, and the countless adventures undertaken with Tanjiro by your side—these memories now felt like precious treasures, too far out of reach (it might sound dramatic but you're feeling quite like that actually).

"Uhgghhhhhhhhhhhhh..." As the weight of loneliness settled over you, you couldn't suppress the quiet whine that escaped your lips, curling into a ball as if seeking solace from the emptiness that surrounded you.

As you continued to whine to yourself, Kiyo, Naho, and Sumi exchanged concerned glances, their hearts heavy with empathy for your plight. Suddenly, a spark of determination ignited within them, and they nodded at each other with newfound resolve before rushing over to where you lay.

"Everything is going to be okay, Big Sis (Y/N)!" Naho's voice rang out cheerfully as she reached out to pat your shoulder gently.

Sumi followed suit, her voice filled with sincerity. "Yes! So don't feel bad! We love you a lot!" She offered a comforting pat on your head, her eyes brimming with affection.

"And remember, you're the best!" Kiyo chimed in, attempting to lift your arms with all her might, though her efforts were in vain due to her lack of strength.

Despite their earnest attempts to lift your spirits, you made no move to respond, leaving the three girls feeling disheartened by your despondent state. Kanao, watching from a distance, furrowed her brows in concern, her lips pressed into a thin line as she struggled to find a way to help you (just like you did with her). Aoi shared her sentiments, her heart aching at the sight of your distress.

As time passed and the others departed to prepare lunch, you and Kanao remained behind. Despite her best efforts to engage you in conversation and lift your mood, Kanao found herself unable to penetrate the walls you had erected around yourself. Eventually, she gently suggested that you take a bath and get some rest, hoping that it might provide some solace.

You did as you were told.

——————————————————————

As the brilliant sun cast warm rays through the window, illuminating your room with clouds and a nice blue sky in a soft light glow, you found yourself freshly bathed but feeling incredibly alone. The absence of Tanjiro, Inosuke, and Zenitsu weighed heavily on you, their absence leaving a palpable void in the space you once shared. Even with the comforting presence of Uzui and his wives, who had kept you company this whole time, their recent departure had only amplified the sense of loneliness that engulfed you.

"..." Lost in your thoughts, you barely noticed the gentle rap on your door, the sound pulling you from your reverie. With a sigh, you dragged yourself from the depths of solitude to answer the call, wondering who could be seeking your company right now. It was possibly Kanao or even the butterfly girls.

As you swung the door open, your heart skipped a beat at the sight before you. "Oh god... guys! It has been a while!" You said, trying to sound enthusiastic even though you actually were happy to see them but, giving your lack of energy, it sounded depressive.

"(Y/N)!!" Ozaki called for you and went in to jump and hug you with affection. "My baby! Are you okay!? I've missed you! Are they treating you badly!? Tell me who is it! I'll beat the shit out of—"

Goto's abrupt interruption jolted you out of the comforting embrace, his grip firm as he pulled Ozaki away from you. She pouted in protest, shooting him a resentful glare that only added to the tension in the air. "Leave her alone. God, you're way too intense," He admonished, his voice tinged with exasperation as he grasped Ozaki by the back of her uniform.

"And you're way too annoying!" Ozaki retorted, sticking her tongue out defiantly at him. How there he interrupt her sweet time with you?! That damn asshole!

Meanwhile, Murata approached you with a warm smile, his demeanor noticeably softer than usual. As he enveloped you in a friendly hug, you couldn't help but notice the subtle change in his strength—had he grown stronger? The thought flitted through your mind before you could fully process it. He's hot. He deserves more appreciation in the fandom. "Hey, (Y/N)! Long time no see. Are you doing fine?" His words pulled you out of your reverie, and you returned his embrace with a sense of familiarity, though your heart felt heavy with the weight of loneliness.

"I'm doing okay! Thanks for asking," you replied with a small smile, though the emptiness of the room—once shared by you, Tanjiro, Inosuke, and Zenitsu—now felt more pronounced in their absence.

The silence that followed was palpable, each of you acutely aware of the somber mood hanging in the air. Ozaki and Murata exchanged concerned glances, their worry mirrored in Goto's furrowed brow. He attempted to lighten the mood with a clumsy attempt at comfort, his awkward hand resting on your shoulder in a gesture of solidarity. "Hey, you should dry your hair better after you shower. You, uh, you can get sick," he offered, his voice faltering slightly as he struggled to find the right words.

You offered a weak chuckle, the sound lacking its usual vigor. "Haha, thanks. I'll keep it in mind," you replied, though the heaviness in your chest remained unlifted. "What are you guys doing here?"

"You're joking? It's been a freaking month—wait, almost two months since the last time we saw each other!" Ozaki pouted, her expression a mix of disbelief and annoyance. Had you perhaps not missed her at all? Was she not so important to you?

"It's been that much?" You tilted your head cutely, feigning innocence.

"Wahhh!! It has!!" Ozaki cried out in mock distress, her theatrics betraying the relief she felt at your playful banter. You had missed them a lot, and she knew it. Of course, you remembered the last time you saw them. You reached out to pat her head gently, offering a silent reassurance of your affection.

"Jeez, would you be more quiet? We're at a hospital," Goto chided, rolling his eyes at his partner's dramatics. Ozaki complied, lowering her tone obediently. Goto settled himself on the edge of your bed, while Ozaki mirrored his actions on the other side. Murata, however, chose to remain standing, his posture relaxed yet attentive.

"So, what have you been doing all this time?" Goto inquired, his tone casual as he leaned back slightly, making himself at home in your room.

"Basically nothing? I guess I could say I've been training recently, but that's just about it," you replied with a shrug, a faint hint of disappointment tingeing your words.

"Damn, that sucks," He murmured, his voice loud enough for all of you to hear. Murata shot him a reproachful glance before offering you a reassuring smile.

"That's understandable. Don't feel too bad about it," he said gently, his words infused with a comforting warmth. "When are you returning to work?"

"Not until Shinobu says so, which I don't know when that'll be," you sighed softly, the uncertainty of your future weighing heavily on your mind.

"...The insect Hashira, huh...?" Murata mused, his voice tinged with unease as he contemplated the prospect of facing Shinobu again.

"You should stop being a demon slayer and become a Kakushi!" Ozaki chimed in with a grin, her enthusiasm infectious as she entertained the idea of you working alongside her. But then, another idea seemed to strike her like lightning. "Wait! No! Forget that! You should be a housewife, and I'll work to support us! You'll just have to sit in our pretty house and be pretty!"

"My, what a great idea," you responded, playing along with her fantasy.

...

"Wait, are you for real?" Ozaki's eyes widened with disbelief, her excitement palpable.

"Yeah, why not? I like it," you replied nonchalantly, eliciting a dramatic reaction from Ozaki.

"OH MY GOD! MY HEART!" she exclaimed, clutching her chest dramatically as if her heart were about to burst. Her face flushed crimson, resembling a ripe strawberry. "(Y-Y/N)!! Don't play with my heart like that! It totally skipped a beat!! I'm going to die!"

"You can't die! I can't be your housewife if you're dead!" you exclaimed teasingly, your laughter filling the room as Ozaki buried her face in embarrassment. It was amusing to see her playfully tease you but turn shy when the tables were turned. It was one of those endearing quirks that made her all the more lovable.

"Ahhhh!!!" Ozaki squealed, her cheeks flushing crimson as she curled up her toes in embarrassment.

"Ha! Bad for you, Goto! Seems like you're getting beat by (Y/N)—OWWW!!! WAIT! NOT MY HAIR!!" Murata's scream of pain interrupted the laughter when Goto began to tug on his hair roots, threatening to turn him bald.

"Keep talking and I'll murder you," Goto threatened, his voice low and menacing as a dark aura surrounded him, making him appear more intimidating than ever before. It was a side of him you hadn't seen before, and it sent a shiver down your spine.

"Ok, ok, ok! Just stop!" Murata whimpered in pain as Goto released his grip, allowing him to nurse his injured scalp. "God, with strength like that, you should be a demon slayer!"

"Fuck off," Goto retorted, crossing his arms in annoyance. "Man whore."

"Hey! Shut up! It's not my fault Ozaki's in love with (Y/N) and not with—OK, OK, I'LL STOP! DON'T DO IT AGAIN!!!" Murata's plea was laced with fear as he watched Goto prepare to pull his hair once more, the threat of baldness looming over him.

"Hehe, are they always like this?" you asked Ozaki, finding amusement in the banter between the two friends while they bickered amongst themselves.

"Yeah, it's like a normal thing now. Although, there's something they always fight about, but when I ask them what they were discussing, they don't tell me a thing! How unfair!" Ozaki rolled her eyes, revealing a hint of frustration. It was clear they had their secrets, though you suspected their conversations often revolved around Ozaki herself. The thought brought a smile to your lips. Goto having a crush on her was unexpected yet somehow fitting. And the dynamic between the trio was nothing short of epic.

"...?" Before you could dwell further on their antics, your attention was diverted by a commotion from the adjacent rooms. Strange noises echoed through the hallway, prompting you to momentarily pause and listen. Unable to discern the source, you shrugged it off, deciding it was best to focus on your friends.

"Master (Y/N)! Master (Y/N)!" Dodo's familiar voice interrupted your thoughts, drawing your gaze downward. The adorable crow nudged your hand, silently requesting your attention. With a fond smile, you obliged, opening your hand to allow him to snuggle against you. As you turned back to your friends, you realized they had resumed their fight.

"I'm not a gorilla! What the hell!?" Ozaki scoffed, clearly offended by Murata's comment. What? Why are they talking about that?

"You are!" Murata retorted, his tone teasing.

"I'm delicate as a princess! I don't know what you're talking about!" She crossed her arms defiantly, her frustration evident.

"Well, I don't know what you're talking about either cause' you're DEFINITELY not a princess!" Murata countered.

"How dare you!?" She gasped, turning to Goto for support. "Goto! Tell him that he's wrong!"

"Huh? Why are you involving me?" He questioned, perplexed by the sudden attention.

"Defend me!" She pleaded, angrily punching his arm. "Tell him that I'm not a gorilla!"

"Um, what's happening?" you interjected, thoroughly confused by the escalating argument.

"What's happening is, dear (Y/N), that Ozaki is missing a bit of... delicacy," Murata explained with a smirk, struggling to find the right words.

"Lies!" Ozaki protested, her cheeks flushing with indignation. "I'm as delicate as a flower!"

"...alright, whatever you say," Murata replied, exchanging an incredulous glance with you.

"(Y/N)! Don't listen to him! He's just mad because I manage to get more bitches than him!" Ozaki redirected her frustration toward Murata, earning a laugh from you. She then turned to whisper at you, "The other day, this girl approached me saying that I was cute! Would you believe that? Though, don't get jealous! I only have eyes for you!"

"You're a liar! G-Girls are crazy for me!" Murata shot back, his cheeks tinged with embarrassment.

"Ha, loser! Can't believe you have to resort to lying in order to look cool!" Ozaki teased at him.

As they continued their banter, you found yourself caught up in their discussion, the earlier melancholy fading away in the face of their infectious energy. "...!" The sound of a breaking glass interrupted their squabble, briefly bringing silence to the room. Ignoring the noise, they resumed their argument, determined to maintain the lighthearted atmosphere.

"I see the three of you are very close," you remarked, drawing their attention.

Ozaki grinned and pulled Murata and Goto into a tight hug, her dimples visible as she beamed at you. "We are! Isn't it funny? We became friends mostly because of you!"

"Because of me?" you echoed, surprised by her revelation.

Murata chuckled, noticing your curious expression. "Me and Ozaki had previously met before because of the mission on Mt. Natagumo. And she and Goto met because she became a kakushi, so they probably had to work together often."

"Yeah, but the first time the three of us were together was when we visited you after the Mugen Train incident. That's when it all started, I guess," Goto mused, scratching his chin in thought.

Ozaki clasped her hands together excitedly. "The funny thing is, after visiting you back then, I suggested we hang out, and guess what?"

"What?" you eagerly prompted.

"They totally rejected my idea, but I forced them to go to a cheap bar with me, and we drank and got drunk!!! Hahaha!" Ozaki laughed, recalling the memory fondly.

"Oh, don't remind me of that night," Goto groaned, his face flushing with embarrassment, which only made Ozaki and Murata laugh even harder.

"Why?! What happened?" you asked, unable to contain your curiosity.

"Nothing of your business—" Goto began before his mouth was suddenly blocked, preventing him from speaking further. He struggled against Murata's grip, but it was futile.

"Tell her, Ozaki!" Murata urged, grinning mischievously.

"Goto got so drunk that he randomly stood up on the table we were at and yelled that he wanted a girlfriend soooo badly!!!" Ozaki recounted, barely able to speak through her laughter.

You couldn't help but burst into laughter at the mental image of Goto's drunken confession. Even though most of his face was obscured, you could see how red he was, and you even imagined steam coming out of his ears. "NOOO!! STOP TALK—HMHMHN!!!"

"At the end, we got kicked out, obviously. He ended up vomiting, though, and that night, we learned that he has a low tolerance for alcohol. The end!" Murata finally released Goto, who collapsed to the floor in utter embarrassment.

"Oh... my god," you managed between fits of laughter. The situation was just too amusing. You made a mental note to try and get Goto drunk again someday.

"Poor guy just wants a girlfriend but barely knows any women," Murata teased with a smirk, earning an agreeing nod from Ozaki. "Well, at least he found someone to have a crush on!"

...

"WHAT?! IS THAT TRUE!?" Ozaki exclaimed, her eyes wide with disbelief. You couldn't help but notice her obliviousness to Goto's crush on her. How could she not see it? It seemed so obvious to you (look who's talking). "WHO IS IT?! WHY WASN'T I TOLD?!" She shook Murata's shoulders, desperate for answers.

"Not telling~!" Murata teased, a mischievous grin playing on his lips as he whistled nonchalantly. Ozaki rolled her eyes and swiftly turned to Goto, grabbing his shoulders and leaning in close to his face.

"Spill it! I want to know!" she demanded eagerly, excitement shining in her eyes.

For the first time in your life, you saw Goto turn as red as a ripe tomato. He looked like he was about to combust. His sweating and fidgeting only added to the spectacle. You couldn't help but empathize with him. Having your crush that close to you must be nerve-wracking.

"I-I'm not s-saying! Why would I?" he stammered, his voice trembling with nerves. He silently thanked whatever divine forces were at play that his face was mostly covered, or he would have surely died of embarrassment.

"PFF—HAHAHA!!!" Murata couldn't contain his laughter, doubling over in fits of mirth.

"Tell me already!" Ozaki persisted.

"N-NO!" Goto repeated adamantly, his resolve firm.

"WHY WON'T YOU TELL ME?! WE'RE FRIENDS!" Ozaki's frustration reached its peak, her teeth gritted so hard it looked like she might crush Goto's shoulders. Then, a sudden realization seemed to dawn on her. "Wait! Don't tell me... your crush is... GRRRR, YOUR CRUSH IS (Y/N), YOU PUNK!?"

"WHAT."

"THAT'S WHY YOU DIDN'T WANT TO TELL ME! YOUR CRUSH IS HER, YOU—"

"WHAT NONSENSE ARE YOU SAYING!?"

"If that's the case, then I won't allow it! Never!" With that, she leaped toward you, hugging you tightly against her chest as if shielding you from any potential threats. "I'm hers! Forever! Screw you! Go find someone else! My love for her is greater than yours!"

"EW! STOP SAYING THAT!" Goto recoiled in disgust, delivering a hard punch to her head. "I WOULD NEVER SEE HER THAT WAY! IT'S WEIRD!" With that declaration, he stormed off to confront Murata, who was still bent over in laughter. He grabbed him by the neck and began shaking him harshly.

"Hahaha, hahha—I can't! My mouth hurts!" You held your jaw in pain from laughing so hard. It had been a while since you'd had this much fun. Seeing you happy, Ozaki smiled softly and affectionately stroked your head.

"Yay. You're laughing. That's good," she remarked, her smile growing wider. "I'm relieved to see you smile like you always do."

"..." It must have been obvious, but all this time, those three had been trying to cheer you up, to make you smile or laugh. It warmed your heart. You returned Ozaki's smile, feeling a sense of gratitude and warmth wash over you. "Thank you!"

"...!!" The sudden burst of the door nearly startled everyone into silence. You all froze in surprise, turning to see who had barged in. Much to your delight, it was Kanao, her breaths ragged and her face flushed from exertion.

"Hey!! Is something wrong?" you asked, concern evident in your voice as you took in her sweaty appearance and rapid breathing.

"..." Kanao paused for a moment to catch her breath, but soon a wide smile spread across her face, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "T...Them!!!"

"Them?" You, Ozaki, Murata, and Goto echoed simultaneously, all equally perplexed by her cryptic response.

Kanao struggled to form coherent words, overwhelmed by her emotions. Without further explanation, she grabbed your hand and urged you to follow her, her urgency evident in her actions. You stumbled along beside her, struggling to keep up with her brisk pace. Your heart raced with curiosity—what could possibly be so urgent that Kanao felt compelled to rush you there?

Your speed left Murata, Ozaki, and Goto trailing behind, but they managed to keep up as best they could.

Finally, you arrived at your destination, gasping for breath as you surveyed the scene before you. It took a moment for your brain to register what you were seeing—you were standing outside your friends' room. Kanao led you inside, navigating carefully around broken glass strewn across the floor..As your gaze swept the room, time seemed to slow to a crawl. Was this real? Were your eyes tricking you? Was Kanao tricking you? You held your breath as you took in the sight before you. As you turned to Kanao for an explanation, your eyes fell upon the occupants of the room. Time seemed to slow to a crawl as you took in the sight before you.

"Ahhhhhh!!!! My body hurts!!" Tanjiro groaned, his voice filled with pain and frustration.

"OHH GOD! WHERE AM I? I FEEL LIKE SHIT! DID I DIE?! NOOOO!!! I'M TOO YOUNG TO DIEEEE!!!!" Zenitsu's panicked cries filled the room, tears streaming down his face.

"I WANNA FIGHT!!! WHY AM I IN A FUCKING BED!? THAT'S FOR PUSSIES! GET ME OUT OF HERE!!!!" Inosuke's roar echoed through the room, his voice brimming with aggression and defiance.

Nearby, Aoi and the girls wept tears of joy, overwhelmed with emotion. Aoi tried in vain to wipe away her tears, but they continued to flow freely. "O-Oh god, I can't believe i-it!! You guys woke up! It's a miracle!!! You didn't die!!" Kiyo offered words of comfort as she cried alongside her, while Sumi and Naho danced with joy, tears streaming down their cheeks.

...

...

...

"...!" Tears welled in your eyes as you brought trembling hands to your lips, overwhelmed with emotion. You struggled to find the right words to express your relief and joy. Sensing your presence, your friends turned their attention toward you, their faces lighting up with recognition. In unison, you all cried out in jubilation.

"(Y/N)!!!!!!!!!!!!"

"GUYSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!"

————————————————————————

The room buzzed with a cacophony of emotions—joy, relief, and gratitude—filling the air as Tanjiro, Zenitsu, and Inosuke finally emerged from their coma. It felt like an eternity since you last saw them, but none of that mattered now. They were awake, and that was all that mattered.

"WAAHHH!!! AHHH!!" You found yourself sandwiched between Tanjiro and Zenitsu, the three of you locked in a tight embrace as tears streamed down your faces. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated bliss, and you couldn't help but cry tears of relief at the sight of your friends awake and alive. Inosuke, on the other hand, seemed more bewildered than anything, his hunger overshadowing any emotions he might have felt at waking up.

"Oh god, this is incredible!" Aoi's voice cut through the emotional haze, her smile radiant with relief as she watched the scene unfold before her.

"Lord Inosuke!!!" Kiyo, Naho, and Sumi practically tackled Inosuke, showering him with affection and joy. He protested loudly, but deep down, he secretly enjoyed the attention, even if he would never admit it (or realize it).

"It's good that they finally woke up," Kanao remarked softly, her eyes filled with relief as she stood beside Aoi. She cast a glance in your direction, a gentle smile playing on her lips. "Isn't it, Master?"

Shinobu chuckled softly, her gaze warm and affectionate as she watched the scene unfold. "It is. I knew they were going to wake up sooner or later," she replied, her voice filled with quiet confidence. She had been there to check on them as soon as they woke up, ensuring that they were in good health and spirits.

"Wow... I can't believe it," Ozaki murmured, her hand covering her mouth in shock as she processed the miraculous sight before her.

"Right? What impeccable timing," Murata replied, a speechless smile spreading across his face.

"It's not the first time it's happened. Remember when we visited (Y/N) after the Mugen Train mission? She was in a deep coma, and then she woke up! And now, the Kamaboko trio were the ones in a coma, and as soon as we arrive, they wake up! It's crazy," Goto explained, still feeling surprised by the unexpected turn of events. Despite the shock, he couldn't help but feel relieved that his friends were finally awake.

"Now that you mention it, that's true. I hadn't noticed the pattern before," Murata mused, amusement evident in his voice as he rubbed his chin thoughtfully.

"WAIT!" Ozaki's voice rang out, her expression shifting to one of perplexity. "DO YOU THINK WE MIGHT BE BLESSED BY THE GODS OR SOMETHING—"

"Oh, shut up already," Goto interjected, cutting her off before she could launch into a wild theory.

While they engaged in their conversation, you and your friends were too caught up in the emotional whirlwind of your reunion to pay much attention. Tears flowed freely down your cheeks as you struggled to find the right words to express your overwhelming happiness. Your eyes and nose were red and puffy, but you couldn't care less in this moment of sheer joy. "I missed you so much!!" you managed to choke out, your voice raspy with emotion. Only Tanjiro and Zenitsu could hear you over the commotion, as Inosuke was still preoccupied with the butterfly girls.

"Aw, (Y/N)!! I missed you so much as well!!" Tanjiro exclaimed, his voice filled with genuine affection as he pulled you into a tighter embrace. His hair had grown longer, now reaching his shoulders. He looked more handsome.

"I missed you too much, my angel!! IT WAS HEELLL!!" Zenitsu wailed dramatically, burying his face in your stomach. You couldn't help but chuckle, though you were wary of getting covered in snot.

"How could it have been hell if you were asleep this whole time?" you teased, a smirk playing on your lips as you awaited his response.

"Because I was somewhat awake even though I was in a coma," Zenitsu explained hastily, dismissing the topic with a wave of his hand. The revelation left you and Tanjiro wide-eyed with curiosity.

"What? How does that work?" Tanjiro inquired, his eyes filled with wonder as he leaned in closer to hear Zenitsu's explanation.

"Well, I'm not sure either, but it's like I was awake in this dark place with nothing around. I suppose that was my subconsciousness. It was so boring though!!!" Zenitsu lamented, his lips forming a pout that made him look like a disgruntled fish. Suddenly, he turned to you with a silly grin, his cheeks flushed with embarrassment. He started rubbing his head against yours affectionately. "But now everything's fine now that you're here! Yay!"

"Hey, stop that," Tanjiro murmured with narrowed eyes, a hint of disapproval in his voice as he watched Zenitsu's affectionate display. He didn't quite appreciate him getting so touchy with you.

"Haha," Shinobu chuckled, finding amusement in the situation. "I'm glad to see all of you so happy and relieved, but I'm afraid they need some rest now."

"EHHHH?!?!? SLEEP?! HAVEN'T THEY SLEPT ENOUGH ALREADY!?" You exclaimed in distress, feeling reluctant to leave. After waiting so long to see them, it felt unfair to have to leave so soon.

"...!" Your friends shared your sentiment, their expressions filled with a mixture of pain and sorrow. Before they could voice their protests, Shinobu took charge.

"Come on, everyone out!" She clapped her hands, prompting everyone to start making their way to the door. Ozaki, Murata, and Goto led the way, followed by Kanao, Aoi, and the butterfly girls. Unsure of what to do, you reluctantly began to follow suit, gently extricating yourself from Tanjiro's and Zenitsu's grasp.

Zenitsu, true to form, started whining and crying, while Tanjiro and Inosuke voiced their complaints loudly. They were acting like children, but you couldn't blame them. Shinobu paid their protests little mind, her smile never faltering. "Let's leave!" she announced, gently guiding everyone out of the room.

"..." As you observed them from a short distance away, you couldn't help but notice the extent of their suffering, even if it did seem a bit exaggerated. Memories of your own childhood flooded back, particularly those moments when you'd hurt yourself and your mother would lovingly tend to your wounds, always finishing with a gentle kiss to make it better. You used to find it a bit silly, but undeniably comforting.

A tentative smile played on your lips. Were you really considering doing this? The thought made your cheeks flush with embarrassment, but you pushed through the hesitation.

After all, it couldn't hurt to try, right...?

You approached Tanjiro first, the confusion evident in his expression as he watched you approach. Finally, you spoke up. "Are you hurt?"

He looked at you with a mixture of surprise and curiosity, clearly not expecting such a question out of the blue. "Um, yes, kind of," he admitted, his voice softening as he spoke.

Your cheeks felt like they were on fire as you watched Tanjiro's reaction to your impulsive gesture. Without giving him a chance to protest or even realize what was happening, you inched closer until you were near enough to cup his cheeks delicately in your hands. His eyes widened in surprise as your lips pressed against his forehead in a soft, innocent kiss. You couldn't help but notice the way his face flushed crimson, his freckles standing out against his red cheeks.

Turning to Zenitsu next, you found him frozen in shock, his mouth slightly agape. Ignoring the embarrassment threatening to creep in, you reached out to gently hold one of his cheeks, planting a quick peck on the other. "(Y-Y/N)..."His voice faltered as he tried to form words, his trembling hand reaching up to touch the spot you'd kissed.

Inosuke, ever the picture of confusion, eyed you warily as you approached him. He seemed ready to defend himself, his arms raised in a fighting stance. But you weren't deterred. With a swift movement, you pushed his face aside just enough to press a kiss to his cheek, careful not to trigger his combat instincts. When you pulled away, you couldn't help but notice the way his green eyes seemed to shimmer with a mix of disbelief and... something else?

Stepping back from the trio's beds, you hung your head low, unable to meet anyone's gaze. The room fell silent, the weight of your impulsive actions settling in. With trembling hands and a voice laced with embarrassment, you spoke up. "That's so... so all your pain goes away quickly..." You felt the heat of embarrassment creeping up your neck as you brought a hand to your cheek, trying to quell the burning sensation. As strange as it seemed, kissing them had felt... right somehow, your heart racing with the spontaneity of the moment. "How embarrassing!"

Your words hung in the air, eliciting a range of reactions from those present in the room.

The room erupted into chaos, with each person reacting in their own unique way to your impulsive display of affection.

"Wahhhhhhh!!!! (Y/N)!!! What are you doing!?" Murata and Ozaki's simultaneous screams echoed through the room, filled with a distress you'd never witnessed from them before. Their voices were almost gut-wrenching in their intensity.

"W-We need alcohol to... a-ah...!" Kanao's voice faltered before she collapsed, overwhelmed by what she'd just witnessed. It was as if her mind couldn't process the sight before her, and she couldn't muster the strength to remain conscious. It felt like a nightmare she couldn't wake up from.

"K-Kanao!!" Aoi's panicked cry filled the air as she scrambled to help her friend, only to find herself falling to the floor in a state of shock. She couldn't believe what she'd just seen, her mind reeling with disbelief. Was this some kind of bizarre dream? "Oh my god! Oh my god!" She tugged at her piggy-tails, trying to ground herself, but the surrealness of the situation was too much to bear.

"Jeez, they grow up so fast." Goto's voice cut through the chaos, surprisingly calm. There was a hint of pride in his tone as he patted your back, as if he was impressed by your boldness. It was almost like a proud parent witnessing their child's first steps.

"Hahaha, hahaha..." Shinobu's laughter rang out, but it lacked any true mirth. It was as if she was laughing to mask the anger simmering beneath the surface. She struggled to contain her emotions, the tension in the room palpable.

"She kissed Tanjiro first, so that means he's the love of her life!" Kiyo exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with excitement. But her certainty wavered as she considered your actions with the other two. "But she kissed the other two as well, so I'm not sure now!!!"

"Idiot! She doesn't love those three!" Naho retorted, her arms crossed and a pout on her lips. She was convinced that your affections were reserved for either Aoi or Kanao. "She must be in love with Master Aoi or Master Kanao! She's just too shy to kiss them!"

"Nu-uh! Some time ago, I overheard Master Rengoku, Tomioka and Uzui asking her to move in with them!" Sumi chimed in, adding another layer of speculation to the mix. Perhaps marrying a Hashira like Master Shinobu was a better fit for you. The possibilities seemed endless, and the confusion only deepened.

"(Y/N)!" Inosuke's voice cut through the commotion, drawing your attention. His serious expression contrasted with his usual boisterous demeanor. "Give me another one," he demanded, his tone leaving no room for argument.

"We should get hurt more often," Tanjiro chimed in, his boyish grin lighting up his face. His dreamy expression was infectious as he continued, "I think the medicine is wearing off! Got any more kisses, please?"

You remained silent, still feeling embarrassed by your earlier actions, but a small laugh escaped your lips at their antics. It was a relief to see them acting silly again, even if they were in pain.

"I think my cheek is numb, I didn't feel anything," Zenitsu remarked with a slight frown. "Can you kiss the other one?" To your surprise, you found yourself nodding, ready to comply with his request. However, before you could move, Tanjiro took matters into his own hands—or rather, his own pinch—reaching over to Zenitsu and delivering a sharp pinch to his cheek.

"It's not numb, you damn liar!" Tanjiro's voice cracked with anger as he scolded his friend, the absurdity of the situation only making it funnier.

"You fucking bitch!" Zenitsu shot back, his indignation evident as he prepared to retaliate, mad that he had ruined his marvelous plan.

"..." As you watched the scene unfold before you, a smile tugged at your lips. You couldn't help but feel a sense of warmth and contentment wash over you.

You were grateful that everything was finally back to normal.

————————————————————————

"HUH?! WHY THE HELL DID YOU KISS THEM?! THOSE BACTERIA!" Daki's shriek pierced the air, her expression a mix of shock and offense as she gasped in disbelief. You found yourself in the midst of explaining the events to Daki, Nezuko, and Gyutaro, seated in their room for what was supposed to be a peaceful tea party. While your cup held actual tea, Daki and Gyutaro opted for blood, and Nezuko's cup remained empty, as she abstained from drinking either.

"Mhmhmh!! MHMHMHH!" Nezuko joined in the scolding, her fists delivering gentle taps to your head as a form of reprimand.

"I—I!!" You attempted to defend yourself, but your words were drowned out by the barrage of disapproval from Daki and Nezuko.

"You two!" Gyutaro's sudden interjection brought a temporary halt to the argument, his tone commanding as he addressed his sister and Nezuko. "Shut the fuck up! I want to know what happened! I'm invested!" With a decisive nod, he signaled for you to continue, taking a leisurely sip from his cup as he awaited your explanation.

"Well, that's the whole story, really. After that, Kanao, Aoi, and even Shinobu banned me from visiting them! But I can't resist! I want to share a room with them like before! I miss them so much!"

"Can you blame them?" Gyutaro interjected. "They saw you kiss other people, so of course, they would get mad."

"Why would they get mad?" You tilted your head in genuine confusion, taking a sip of your tea.

Gyutaro was speechless. You couldn't be THAT dumb, right? But it seemed that you were that dumb. "...Daki, she's too dense. I demand you to fall in love with another human." Gyutaro rolled his eyes, finishing the remainder of his cup of blood before reclining onto the ground in a manner that resembled sleep.

"Yes, (Y/N)." Daki sighed and shook her head.

"Hmhm, mhmh..." Nezuko mimicked the action.

"Whatever! I'll go now. I'll try to sneak into their room anyway." You bid them farewell, mentally noting to repeat the tea party since it was actually quite enjoyable to gossip and fool around. "Bye-bye!" After slipping away, you tiptoed to the kitchen, swiftly concocting a nutritious soup with all the essential ingredients. With the soup in hand, you ventured to their room, ensuring that no one spotted you. Stealthily, you eased the door open and slipped inside, feeling like a ninja on a covert mission. "Guys! I'm here!!" You greeted them cheerfully, carefully placing their meals aside to avoid any accidental spills.

"Oh! Good night (Y/N)!" Tanjiro greeted you with a warm smile. "I thought you weren't allowed to come in?"

"Who cares about that!?" Zenitsu retorted irritably, but his tone softened as soon as he turned to you. "Hey sweetheart! Are you doing okay?"

"I'm fine, really, but..."

"But?" Tanjiro and Zenitsu leaned in, curious to hear more.

"ARE YOU GUYS OKAY?!" You blurted out, your worry evident. They had just awakened from a coma, and you were concerned about their well-being. You bombarded them with a barrage of questions, offering to do anything to alleviate their discomfort. "What do you need? Medicine? Food? Massages? Just tell me, and I'll take care of it! Here, let me feed you guys!" Without waiting for their response, you began spoon-feeding them the soup you had prepared. Inosuke finished his portion in a flash, while the other two took their time savoring it.

Next, you administered their prescribed medications, ensuring that they received all the care they needed. In essence, you became their caretaker, tending to their every need and showering them with affection. And truth be told, they didn't mind being pampered by you at all.

"You look like a mom, taking care of us like this," Tanjiro commented with a lazy smile. Being the usual caretaker himself, being tended to by you made him feel oddly giddy.

"(Y/N)!! Can you pat my head?" Zenitsu pleaded in his usual whiny tone.

"Of course!" You obliged, settling beside him on his bed and gently patting his head. Zenitsu couldn't contain his happiness. While you were at it, you decided to fill them in on everything that had happened until now, although it wasn't much.

"I can't believe it!" Zenitsu exclaimed in disbelief. "The upper moon six are on our side now?! That's crazy!"

"LET'S FIGHT THEM! THEY ARE NO MATCH FOR ME!" You cut off Inosuke before he could start stirring up chaos.

"So, Daki and Gyutaro are staying with Nezuko?" Tanjiro inquired, concern evident in his voice.

"Yeah, but they're actually getting along pretty well. They're basically besties!" You reassured him, hoping to ease his worries.

"That's nice to hear." Tanjiro smiled in relief, although a hint of sadness lingered. "Though, I'm sad... I want to see her."

You felt a pang of sympathy for Tanjiro and gently patted his shoulder. "I know you do, and you will! But don't worry! Nezuko made you this drawing!" Retrieving the paper from your pocket, you handed it to him. It depicted a simple, heartwarming scene of Nezuko and him holding hands. Despite its simplicity, it was enough to bring tears to Tanjiro's eyes as he hugged the drawing close, overcome with affection and joy.

"Ew," Zenitsu cringed at the display of sentimentality. "Loser."

"Tatiana, give me the thing. Let me eat it," Inosuke murmured, his typical hunger for anything edible kicking in.

"You guys are the worst!" Tanjiro shot back, hurt by their reactions, while you chuckled at their banter.

After spending some time catching up with them, you announced, "Well, I need to get going. I shouldn't even be here!" You attempted to leave, but your exit was promptly halted by the three of them.

"(Y/N)! DON'T YOU DARE GO AWAY, YOU MINION!" Inosuke bellowed, adamantly refusing to let you leave.

"Shhh! Quiet!" You hushed him urgently, not wanting to attract Shinobu's attention and risk getting scolded.

"My princess! My angel! Don't go! Stay here, please!!!" Zenitsu pleaded, his voice cracking with desperation.

"Yeah, (Y/N)... Please stay..." Even Tanjiro, typically the voice of reason, joined in, his tone pleading for you to remain with them through the night.

This was dumb. Your laughter echoed through the room, your amusement contagious as Zenitsu seized the opportunity to grab you tightly around the waist, refusing to release his hold. Caught off guard, you couldn't help but laugh even harder, surrendering to his grasp. In a sudden turn of events, you found yourself wrapped in his arms as both of you tumbled onto his bed, still entwined in each other's embrace. "Haha, I finally got you," Zenitsu chuckled, his demeanor transforming into that of a gallant prince in your eyes.

"What?!" Tanjiro exclaimed in disbelief, his shock mirrored by Inosuke's equally incredulous expression. Tanjiro's protective instincts flared up instantly at the sight before him, and he made it clear that he wasn't about to let this slide. As his instincts kicked into high gear, he wasted no time in springing into action. With swift movements, he crawled across the floor and leaped onto the neighboring bed, determined to intervene and prevent Zenitsu from embracing you any further. The two boys engaged in a fucking fight, their wrestling match escalating as they grappled with each other, both vying for your attention and affection.

"..." Meanwhile, you took advantage of the distraction caused by Tanjiro and Zenitsu's antics to slip away quietly. Making your way over to Inosuke's bed, you settled down beside him, intending to check on him and perhaps engage in a conversation. However, as you leaned closer, you were taken aback to find Inosuke already fast asleep, his features softened in slumber. Despite his fierce exterior, he appeared surprisingly gentle and vulnerable in this moment.

Lost in your thoughts, you contemplated reaching out to Inosuke with a message, but you were interrupted by the sudden cessation of the commotion nearby. Glancing up, you realized that Tanjiro and Zenitsu had paused their wrestling match, their attention now drawn to you as you lay beside Inosuke. Feeling the weight of Tanjiro and Zenitsu's curious stares, you couldn't help but chuckle, the sound echoing softly in the room. Sensing the need to diffuse the tension, you rose from Inosuke's bed, a mischievous glint in your eyes as you formulated a plan.

"Hey, why don't we do something fun?" you suggested, a playful grin tugging at your lips. Your idea was to put the three beds together, just like you did before with Uzui and his wives. That way, you can all sleep together.

Tanjiro's eyes lit up with excitement at the idea, and Zenitsu nodded eagerly in agreement. Even Inosuke, who had been roused from his slumber by the commotion, seemed intrigued by the proposal. With everyone on board, you set to work rearranging the beds, pushing them closer until they formed a makeshift communal sleeping area in the center of the room.

As the lights of the moon filtered through the windows, casting silver hues across the room, you all settled onto the newly arranged beds. Tanjiro lay on one side, a contented smile gracing his features, while Zenitsu was beside him, his usual anxious energy replaced by a sense of peace and tranquility. You followed next and Inosuke sprawled out on the remaining bed, his snores filling the room as he drifted back off to sleep. Zenitsu tried cuddling you various time but Tanjiro kicked him on his ribs, not allowing him to do so.

For a few blissful hours, you all reveled in the simple pleasure of being together again.

But alas, as all good things must come to an end, your moment of togetherness was shattered by the appearance of Shinobu entering the room.

————————————————————————

As the days passed (a week or more) the Kamaboko trio made remarkable progress in their recovery, gradually regaining their strength and returning to their regular training routines. Yay!

One particularly sunny day, after a rigorous training session, you found yourself finishing first among your group. Eager to freshen up, you decided to head to the bathing area ahead of the others.

With a sense of anticipation, you made your way back to your old room, where the Kamaboko trio had once again joined you.

This arrangement, allowing all four of you to share a room, was a new development facilitated by Shinobu (you remind yourself to thank her from the bottom of your heart).

As you entered the room, you noticed the absence of your companions, indicating that they were still engaged in the bathroom. However, the space was not entirely devoid of company. To your pleasant surprise, you found yourself joined by Mitsuri and Shinobu, who had decided to pay you a visit during this brief interlude.

Seated comfortably on your bed, you engaged in light conversation with them. As you and Mitsuri reunited after a long time apart, her tears of happiness mirrored your own feelings of joy. The warmth of her embrace and the genuine happiness in her eyes made it clear just how much she had missed you, and you couldn't help but share in her emotional outpouring.

Mitsuri's tears of joy flowed freely and you found yourself caught up in her emotional embrace, reciprocating her happiness. "I've missed you so much, (Y/N)!" she exclaimed between sobs, her voice trembling with emotion. "I missed you! I missed you!!! Wahahhhhh!!!! It's not fair!"

"I've missed you too, Mitsuri!" you replied, laughing as you hugged her tightly.

Observing the scene, Shinobu couldn't help but smile softly. "It's good to see you two reunited," she remarked, her tone warm and gentle. "But, why didn't you come sooner to visit?"

"Yeah, it feels like forever since we've been together like this," you agreed.

Mitsuri cleaned her face and exclaimed, "I wanted to visit!! But I was so busy with work! It's super unfair! Wahh, I love you with all my heart!!" She returned to kiss your head and forehead, making blush.

Surprisingly, despite Mitsuri's overt display of affection, Shinobu didn't seem as perturbed as you might have expected. In fact, you noticed a softness in her expression, a hint of fondness that suggested she had a soft spot for Mitsuri. Perhaps it was the genuine nature of their relation that endeared Mitsuri to Shinobu, allowing her to overlook any minor transgressions (Shinobu wouldn't allow anybody else to be this affectionate with you).

As the conversation continued, you felt a surge of excitement building within you. It might be dumb but, after all the time you've been in demon slayer, you realized that there are tons of characters that haven't interacted a lot. At the same time, there are unusual and random interactions you've seen that made you really intrigued. Is it bad that you want everyone to be in the same room together to see them interact between them? Is it?

With a lot of thrill, you exclaimed, "Hey, I have an idea!" you interjected, eager to share your thoughts with these two since you feel that they might be the ones to be more eager with your suggestion.

Both Mitsuri and Shinobu looked at you curiously, their interest piqued. "What is it, (Y/N)?" Mitsuri asked, her curiosity evident in her tone.

"I want to ask you both for a silly request, haha," you say a bit nervous, not knowing how they would react.

"Tell us anything. Don't be nervous!" Shinobu said, wanting to hear what you were going to tell them.

"Dum! Dum! Dum! Dum! Dum! Dum! Dum! Dum! Ta! Ta! Ta! Ta! Ta! Ta!" With a mischievous glint in your eye, you proposed your idea, drumming up anticipation with drum sounds that added a touch of suspense to the moment.

'Cute.' Mitsuri and Shinobu exchanged amused glances, finding your enthusiasm and creativity endearing.

And then, with a burst of excitement, you revealed your request:

"LET'S DOOOOOO AAAAAAAAAAA PARTYYYYYYYYYY YAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!" You screamed with joy, cheeks blushed and stars dancing around you. You had extended your arms as if to surprise them even more.

...

"..." Both of them stood quiet, processing what you had said right now. You stood still, your smile never wavering and just then, Mitsuri's and Shinobu's eyes widened in shock, giving you dumbfounded expressions as they screamed at the same time:

"A PARTY?!"

End of the Chaotic Recovery arc.

————————————————————————

WE'VE FINISHED THIS ARCCCCCCCCC RAHHHHHHHHHHHHH. SORRY FOR TAKING SO LONG. This originally was two different chapters but I decided to make it into one to finish it faster!!! FINALLY!! I'm super duper happy for the things that are coming now. I believe this arc might be the peak of the story!!

Also, to clear up misunderstandings, what's following next is not the swordsmith village arc—it's an original arc like this one! This new arc will be shorter but, A LOT of (plot related) things will happen. I'll try to beat my record of 21k+ words and hope to do my very besssttttt💪💪🔥🔥🔥🔥

I wish you all thanks for sticking to this silly story of mine and I hope you continue to enjoy it. Sorry for not updating fast!!🫶🫶

SPOILER ALERT!!! Can you guess which characters will kiss (Y/N) in this arc? For now, there are only two.
HINT: one of them was bound to happen sooner or later (they're in love with you already) and the other one is unexpected/out of pocket.

————————————————————————

Xoxo, azamishomie.