SET YOUR HEART TO BLAZE! — CHAPTER #66 — UNCOVERING THE HIDDEN TRUTH

"(Y/N)!!" Shinobu's voice rang through the air, sharp and distressed, as everything she had been holding slipped from her grasp and scattered onto the floor. The usual calmness in her face was replaced by sheer panic, all the color draining away in an instant. Her hands trembled slightly as her gaze locked onto your battered form. "WHAT HAPPENED TO YOU?!"

"Uh... well, you see," You tried to play it cool, offering her a faint smile, but the sheen of sweat on your brow betrayed any attempt to appear unfazed. "...Dodo assigned me a mission last night, and... I ran into a super powerful demon. It was way too much for me to handle."

"EH?!" Dodo, your crow, squawked in disbelief. His beady eyes widened in shock as his tiny head snapped toward you. Was this your idea of covering up the truth?! 

"Dodo!" Shinobu's voice hardened, and her attention shifted to the poor bird. Her tone was calm, but there was no mistaking the disappointment laced within it. "You're aware that (Y/N) is still recovering, aren't you? She shouldn't have been sent on any missions, let alone one involving such danger! Look at her now!" Her sharp gaze could have sliced through steel. "I'm very disappointed in you."

"...?!" The crow froze, his wings drooping as though he'd been physically struck. He turned toward you, his silent stare heavy with betrayal.

You offered him an apologetic glance, mentally screaming, 'Sorry! I can't tell her the truth!' But of course, no amount of silent pleading could bridge the gap between human thought and avian comprehension.

By the time morning came, the house was already abuzz with activity. Aoi and Shinobu had spent the better part of the night tending to your injuries. Despite their meticulous care, you remained tight-lipped about the true events of the previous night—your secret rendezvous with Akaza. Explaining that to them would have been next to impossible, so a fabricated story felt like the safer option. Unfortunately, your little white lie had left poor Dodo on the receiving end of Shinobu's wrath. The crow had spent the morning sulking, and you couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt every time his accusing gaze landed on you.

Ever since that night, Akaza had stopped visiting you. He no longer appeared in your room, nor did he make any effort to contact you. You told yourself it was for the best—you hadn't wanted to see him either. But a small, nagging part of you couldn't shake the hollow feeling his absence left behind. 

Thankfully, there was some good news. After several days of rest, Shinobu finally gave you the all-clear. "You're completely healed now," she announced with a relieved smile. "No more fever, though your wounds will take time to fully disappear." 

"Wow, (Y/N)! I'm so happy you're better!" Tanjiro beamed, his kind eyes sparkling as he patted your head gently. 

"Thanks, Tanjiro! I'm glad, too," you replied, smiling back at him. Things between the two of you had settled into a comfortable rhythm despite his earlier confession of love. He had reassured you that there was no pressure to respond, insisting that your friendship was more important to him. For now, the two of you had agreed to let things remain as they were. Nonetheless...

"Even though you don't have to answer now... that doesn't mean I will let myself get behind from the others, (Y/N)." He whispered with a teasing tone.

"Huh?" You didn't understand his words yet, your face had gotten as red as a tomato.

"..." He only smiled and refused to explain further.

"PRINCESS!" A blur of yellow streaked toward you, and before you knew it, Zenitsu had wrapped his arms around you, burying his face into your shoulder. "We can finally hang out like we used to! I missed you so much!" 

You couldn't help but laugh, returning his hug with equal enthusiasm. "I missed you too, Zenitsu! I'm looking forward to hanging out again!" 

"Um, Zenitsu," Tanjiro interrupted, a hint of exasperation creeping into his otherwise calm tone. "Could you let go of her? We don't want her getting sick again." 

He pulled back just enough to shoot him a confused look. "Why would she get sick again?" 

He sighed. "Because you're a walking virus—" 

The comment barely left his mouth before Zenitsu exploded in indignation, his hands flying to his hair. "WHAT DID YOU SAY?! TAKE THAT BACK!" 

"HAHAHA!" The boisterous laughter of Inosuke suddenly filled the air. You turned just in time to see him scoop you up like a prize. "DID YOU SEE THAT, UNDERLING? YOU GOT BETTER BECAUSE OF THE ROCK AND ACORNS I GAVE YOU!" 

"Oh, right! I almost forgot about those," you replied, humoring him with a grin. "Thank you so much, Inosuke! I couldn't have gotten better without your... unique methods." 

"GOOD!" He spun you around in a dizzying circle before finally setting you back on your feet. "I'M THE BEST! What would you even do without someone like me, huh?!" 

"I don't know—probably die?" you shrugged your shoulders. 

"EXACTLY, GOOD JOB AT NOT DYING!" Inosuke puffed out his chest, radiating smug satisfaction as he gave you a rough pat on the head. 

Zenitsu groaned, rolling his eyes. "Do you even realize she's being sarcastic, you idiot?" 

"Let him have this," Tanjiro said with a chuckle. "It makes him happy." 

"...Sarcasm?" Inosuke tilted his head, frowning slightly. "Huh... I think I had one of those once." 

"You what?"

Anyways. You were officially cleared for solo missions again! After days of being cooped up in bed, the prospect of going back out into the field made you incredibly happy.

—————————————————————————————

"..."

The morning sun painted the world in hues of gold and gentle warmth, a perfect balance of light and cool air that made everything feel fresh and invigorating. The sweet chirping of birds harmonized with the soft rustling of leaves, creating a tranquil melody. It was the kind of morning that made you want to savor every moment. 

"MY SUNSHINEEEEEE!" 

You didn't need to turn around to know who it was. Before you could react, a pair of strong arms wrapped around you, lifting you effortlessly off the ground. 

"(Y/N)!" Rengoku's hearty laughter rang out as he spun you around, his joy as bright as the sun itself. "You're looking well! I'm so glad to see you're better already! I CAN FINALLY BREATHE EASY KNOWING YOU'RE SAFE! YOUR WELL-BEING IS MY BIGGEST BLESSING!"

Your laughter bubbled up in response, light and carefree. "Kyojuro! I'm happy to see you too! You can put me down now—unless you want me to get dizzy!" 

He chuckled, setting you back on your feet with a playful grin. "Ah, apologies, my excitement got the better of me!" For a moment, his cheeks turned a shade pinker, a rare show of embarrassment. But true to his nature, his enthusiasm quickly overpowered any self-consciousness. 

Today was no ordinary day, though. You had promised him a date the last time you saw each other, and Rengoku had clearly taken that promise to heart. Now, here you were, ready to spend the day together in a lively town nestled in the valley. The streets were bustling with cheerful energy, with colorful banners strung between rooftops and vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade trinkets. The scent of roasted chestnuts and sweet pastries wafted through the air, mingling with the laughter of children and the chatter of townsfolk. 

...

...

...

Though the atmosphere was far different from that night, you couldn't help but remember your date with Akaz—

"You know," Rengoku began, his amber eyes glinting with curiosity, interrupting your thoughts. You cursed internally and decided to stop thinking about the already-mentioned demon. "I've always wondered how someone like you maintains such a bright spirit." 

"What? Out of everyone—you're the one telling me that?" You smiled softly, glancing down at the cobblestone path as you considered your words. "I guess... I try to focus on the good moments? It's not easy, but people like you remind me there's still so much worth fighting for!"

"INCREDIBLE RESPONSE!" Rengoku beamed at your answer, his expression warm and encouraging. "Spoken like a true warrior of justice! Though, I must admit, your resilience is something I deeply admire! Not everyone can carry themselves with such grace in the face of adversity!" 

You chuckled, feeling a bit shy under his praise. "You make it sound like I'm doing something extraordinary. But what about you? You're the one who inspires everyone around you. What keeps you going?" 

He stopped walking for a moment, his gaze drifting toward the horizon. The sunlight illuminated his hair like a fiery halo, and his usual exuberance softened into something more reflective. "For me, it's the belief that every life is worth protecting, no matter how small or fleeting. My father... well, he didn't share that belief, but I've come to understand that strength isn't just about power. It's about heart. And every time I see someone like you smiling despite the odds, it reminds me why I do what I do." 

"Mhm..." You nodded, feeling a sense of connection in his honesty. "I think you're right. Even when things feel overwhelming, those little moments of joy make it all worthwhile." 

You laughed, the sound light and joyful, a melody that Rengoku found himself completely entranced by. His eyes softened, his gaze lingering on you with a warmth that could melt even the coldest of hearts.

"...?" But then his eyes shifted, and his expression changed. Something had caught his attention. How careless of him not to notice earlier—the patches on your face, the faint bruises peeking out from beneath your uniform, and the bandages that adorned your arms and hands. His brows furrowed, concern flooding his features. 

"(Y/N), my love," he said softly, his voice laced with worry. "What happened to you?" 

You cursed internally, momentarily regretting your decision not to cover yourself better. You forced a smile, trying to seem unfazed, and quickly scrambled for the story you'd already prepared. "Oh, that? It's nothing major!" you began, waving a hand dismissively. "Dodo sent me on a mission a few nights ago. I wasn't fully recovered from my fever, but I didn't want to let anyone down. There was this super powerful demon, and, well... it didn't exactly go easy on me." 

Rengoku's eyes widened slightly, his concern deepening. "You were still recovering, and yet you faced a powerful demon? (Y/N), you're incredibly brave... but that must have been difficult." His voice grew softer, tinged with sadness. "I wish I could have been there to help you." 

"Oh! No, no, no! I'm okay!" You nodded, trying to keep up the façade. "I'm fine now! Really!" 

Still, the sadness didn't leave his face. He straightened, his usual confidence returning as he spoke with that unwavering strength you admired so much. "(Y/N), you're stronger than you give yourself credit for! It's not just your skills but your heart that sets you apart. Even so, you don't always have to shoulder everything alone. Remember, we're here to protect each other. Next time, don't hesitate to call on me, alright?" 

You nodded, the guilt in your chest twisting tighter.

Akaza lifted his head, his eyes locking onto yours. For a moment, the world stilled. His gaze roamed over your form, taking in the bruises, the wounds, the blood he'd drawn from you. His chest rose and fell with his own ragged breathing, his lips still slightly parted. The sight of him—his face splattered with your blood—sent a chill through you.

Rengoku hesitated for a moment before reaching out, his hand moving to gently touch your cheek where one of the patches rested. "Does it still hurt?" he asked softly.

His mouth stained with your blood, the crimson glistening against his skin. There was something vile about the way he looked, something deeply unsettling yet impossible to look away from.

He looked like a demon.

A real demon.

You froze.

The moment Rengoku's fingers brushed against your skin, a surge of unease jolted through you—memories of Akaza's touch flooding your mind. Without thinking, your hand shot up, slapping his away harshly. 

...

...

...

Silence. 

The lively chatter of the town seemed to fade into the background as the two of you stared at each other, both stunned. Rengoku's eyes were wide with surprise, but there was no anger in them—only concern and confusion. 

You, on the other hand, felt your stomach drop. Your heart raced as guilt and shame bubbled up inside you. "I—I didn't mean to do that!" you stammered, your voice trembling. You forced a shaky smile, sweat trickling down the side of your face. "Hahaha! It was an accident! I swear, Kyojuro! I—I wasn't thinking... I didn't mean to slap you away..." 

His expression softened immediately, and he raised his hands slightly, as if to show you he meant no harm. "It's alright, (Y/N)," he said gently. "I shouldn't have overstepped your boundaries." 

But his understanding only made you feel worse. "No, I—" You stopped yourself, struggling to find the right words. "I'm just... I guess I'm still a little on edge after that...mission. It's not you, I promise, silly me—"

"(Y/N)."

"..."

"It's okay. I believe you." He studied you carefully, his sharp eyes catching the subtle tremble in your hands and the way you avoided his gaze. There was more to this than you were letting on, but he didn't push. Instead, he gave you one of his reassuring smiles. "And I'm sorry if I startled you. It's only natural to feel uneasy." 

"..." His words soothed some of the tension in your chest. Although they were not enough to clear off the shame, the guilty, that remained inside of you

The awkwardness lingered for a few moments longer before he broke the silence with his usual enthusiasm, pointing out a nearby stand selling steamed buns. "AH, LOOK AT THOSE YUMMY BUNS! They're as fluffy as the clouds today! Let's grab a few—I'm sure they'll cheer you up!" 

You agreed to search for some buns with him. The two of you strolled toward a small, vibrant stall adorned with colorful streamers, its enticing aroma of freshly steamed dough and sweet fillings drawing you in.

Rengoku stepped up to the counter with his usual enthusiasm. The vendor, an elderly man with a kind smile, greeted you both warmly. 

"Ah, good morning! What can I get for such a spirited pair today?" the vendor asked, his voice rich with warmth. 

"Good morning!" He boomed. "We'll take a variety, please! Let's see... RED BEAN PASTE, CUSTARD, SESAME, MATCHA, AND—oh! Do you have PORK-FILLED buns as well?" 

The vendor chuckled, nodding. "Of course, young man. Coming right up!" 

As Rengoku continued chatting with the vendor, you stood by, your thoughts momentarily drifting. Despite the warm sunshine and pleasant atmosphere, the memory of slapping Rengoku's hand earlier still lingered. 

You can't let that moment ruin this,

you scolded yourself.

Don't let those memories with Akaza creep in and ruin everything.

Kyojuro doesn't deserve your hesitation or guilt.

You shouldn't burden him.

Just focus on enjoying this time with him.

...

You clenched your fists lightly before giving yourself two quick slaps on the cheeks, as if to shake off your inner turmoil. 

"Hmm? (Y/N), are you alright?" Rengoku asked, glancing at you with a curious tilt of his head. 

"Oh, yeah!" you replied quickly, forcing a cheerful smile. "Just, uh, getting excited for the buns!" 

He grinned, clearly reassured, and returned his attention to the vendor. Moments later, the man handed over a large tray heaped with buns of every flavor imaginable. Rengoku held it like a trophy, his proud stance drawing a few amused glances from nearby onlookers. 

You couldn't help but laugh at the sight, the sound bright and genuine. Rengoku looked at you, his golden eyes softening with warmth. He didn't say anything, but it was clear how much it meant to him to see you laugh again. 

Finding a small, round table nearby, you both settled down with the tray of buns between you. You stared at the sheer amount of food, your eyes wide with disbelief. 

"Kyojuro," you said, trying not to laugh, "why did you get so many buns? There's no way we can eat all of this..." 

He grinned, looking entirely unbothered. "I didn't order this many," he explained. "The vendor said we looked like a lovely young married couple and was so delighted that he added extras for free!" 

You froze, your cheeks heating instantly. "M-Married couple?!" you stammered, glancing back at the stall. Had he really said that? How had you missed it? 

Rengoku laughed heartily, clearly finding your reaction amusing. "Yes! Isn't it flattering?" 

You covered your face with your hands, peeking through your fingers to glare at him. "You don't have to say it like that!" 

He chuckled again, reaching for a bun and taking a big bite. "Come now, (Y/N), no need to be shy! It's a compliment!" 

Rolling your eyes but unable to hide your small smile, you picked up a bun yourself. You chose the sweetest-looking one, its golden, glossy surface hinting at a sugary filling. The moment you bit into it, your eyes widened in delight. 

"Thish ish awmazhing!" you exclaimed, taking another enthusiastic bite. Your cheeks puffed up as you chewed, savoring the rich, sweet flavor. 

Rengoku burst into laughter, pointing at you. "You look like a hamster, (Y/N)! You're looking so adorable!" 

You froze mid-chew, your face flushing as you glared at him. Quickly, you swallowed hard and huffed . "S-Sorry," 

"Why are you apologizing? It's a compliment!" Still grinning, he reached for another bun.

"Still..."

"I can't help it! It's true!" 

Shaking your head with a smile, you picked up the remaining half of your bun and held it out to him. "Here, you should try this one. It's really good." 

He started to shake his head, already reaching for a different bun. "Oh, no, you should enjoy—" 

Before he could finish, you leaned forward and held the bun up to his face. "...Ahhh~" you teased, mimicking the tone of a mother feeding her child. Fuck. You cringed on the inside.

Rengoku paused, surprised for a moment, before a bright smile spread across his face. Without hesitation, he leaned in and took a bite directly from your hand. His eyes lit up as he chewed. 

"DELICIOUS!" he declared enthusiastically. "You have excellent taste, (Y/N)!" 

You laughed softly. The moment felt lighthearted, and you could feel the tension you'd been carrying earlier begin to fade. 

As you continued to eat, Rengoku glanced at you thoughtfully. "You know," he said, his tone softening, "seeing you smile like this... it's wonderful. I hope moments like this bring you even a little bit of peace. Just know that I'm here for you, no matter what." 

You blinked, his sincerity catching you off guard. "Thanks, Kyojuro,"

He grinned again, his usual exuberance returning. "Of course! As your future husband, it's my duty to bring you joy and ensure your spirits stay high!"

"Mmm," you thought at loud, feeling speechless at his comment but feeling used to it already. "Yeah, well, I guess queen...  love the energy."

...

'Future husband, huh...?'

That word raced onto your mind. If you're not mistaken, ever since the mugen train mission, he has been head over heels for you. Which is odd, since it felt so fast but even now, he seemed so attached to you. Why though? You looked at him. He was eagerly eating a bunch of buns. The villagers were giving him mixed looks. Some of admiration. Some of amusement. Some of disgust.

"...Hey, Kyojuro,"

"Yes?" He answered, cleaning his mouth in the process since it was filled with pieces of food.

"Um... why do you, er, like me...?" You asked with shyness. It was a weird question to ask. You wanted to know why. Why of all people, he chose you—out of everyone—you were the one he decided to pursue.

Rengoku sat there, momentarily stunned, your question in the air between you both. Slowly, he blinked a few times, his usually radiant smile replaced by an expression of quiet thoughtfulness. He placed his already eaten bun carefully on the table, his hands resting lightly on either side of it as he looked directly at you. 

"Why do I like you...?" he repeated softly, as if testing the weight of your question. Then, as though a spark of energy reignited within him, he straightened his posture and a warm, sincere smile returned to his face. 

"Well, (Y/N)! If I'm to answer that question, I must start from the beginning." His voice and golden eyes shimmered with emotion as he began his story. 

"The first time I saw you was during the Hashira meeting. I remember you stood there, the only one in that room who wasn't a Hashira, yet you held yourself with such quiet strength and dignity. I heard about what you had done—how you defeated Lower Moon Five, no less—with nothing but sheer determination and...a frying pan." He chuckled softly at the memory, the corners of his eyes crinkling. "At first, I thought it was an exaggeration. But then I heard you explain the details. How you risked your life for the people you protected. How you refused to let fear stop you, even when the odds were against you. It was remarkable." 

He paused, his voice softening. "I was amazed, (Y/N). Truly. Such devotion, such strength—it reminded me of why I chose this path myself. You were a civilian, yet your heart burned brighter than most seasoned warriors. I couldn't help but admire you from the moment I heard your story." 

His expression grew wistful, his gaze distant as he recalled those days. "I wanted so badly to talk to you, to understand the person behind such incredible resolve. But I was busy, always busy. Missions, duties, responsibilities—they kept me from reaching out. After a while, I thought perhaps I should let it go. Admiration would have to suffice." 

His golden eyes met yours again, and his smile softened. "But then, I saw you again at the Butterfly Mansion. I'll never forget that moment. You were standing there as if the gods themselves had heard my unspoken wish and offered you as a gift. I could hardly believe it. And when we finally talked... You told me, 'Don't die, okay?' Those words, (Y/N)... they stayed with me. You didn't know me well, and yet you cared enough to say something so heartfelt. Your concern wasn't just for my title or my strength—it was for me. For my well-being. It was humbling, and it was unforgettable." 

Rengoku leaned forward slightly, his gaze unwavering. "I carried those words with me, you know. Through every mission, every fight, I thought of them. And then, on the Mugen Train, when I saw you again, I couldn't believe it. We were on the same mission. It felt like destiny had brought us together once more. But what truly changed everything was... how you risked yourself for me." 

His voice wavered slightly, the memory clearly affecting him. "You were injured. You could have stepped back, could have protected yourself—but you didn't. You jumped into the fray to protect me, to save my life. At first, I felt... ashamed. As the Flame Hashira, I'm supposed to protect others, not the other way around. How could I have let you do that?" 

He took a deep breath, his expression firming with resolve. "But then I realized something. It wasn't just guilt I felt. It was admiration. Respect. And... love. You embodied everything I hold dear in this world. Your courage, your kindness, your determination to protect others—it's everything I've ever admired, everything I've ever dreamed of finding in someone." 

His voice grew softer, more intimate. "You showed me what it means to care for someone so deeply that their happiness becomes your own. You made me understand what it means to love. Even if I can't be with you, as long as you're safe and happy, I know I'll find peace in that. But the fact that I get to stand by your side, to share moments like this with you... It's more than I ever dared to hope for." 

He leaned back slightly, his gaze steady and filled with warmth. "That's why I like you, (Y/N). No—why I love you. You've shown me the beauty of life in a way I never thought possible. And for that, I'll always be grateful." 

"..."

Oh shit. Damn. You actually didn't expect such detailed response.

Rengoku took a deep breath, his golden eyes never leaving yours. His voice grew softer, more tender, as though the words he was about to speak were meant only for you. 

"I love you, (Y/N), because you remind me of the flame itself—bright, warm, and unyielding. Your heart burns with a passion for life and for others, a fire so fierce that it inspires everyone around you. You stand tall and no matter how much the world tries to knock you down, you get back up, stronger than before. That kind of resilience... it's breathtaking." 

His gaze softened. "But it's not just your strength I love. It's your kindness, your ability to see the good in people, even when they can't see it themselves. You have a way of making others feel valued, cared for, even in their darkest moments. Do you realize how rare that is? How precious you are because of it?" 

Rengoku leaned forward slightly, his voice filled with emotion as he tucked some strands of your hair behind your ear. You were so immersed in his words you didn't even flinch or felt uncomfortable. "And then there's the way you make me feel. When I'm with you, I feel... alive. More alive than I've ever felt before. You've given me a reason to keep pushing forward, even when the weight of my responsibilities feels too heavy to bear." 

He let out a soft chuckle, rubbing the back of his neck as his cheeks turned a faint shade of pink. "Honestly, you've changed me in ways I never thought possible. Before I met you, I was focused solely on my duty, on protecting others. I didn't think I had room in my heart for anything else. But then you came into my life, and everything shifted. Suddenly, I wasn't just fighting for others—I was fighting for the chance to see you smile again, to hear your laughter, to stand beside you and protect the light that you bring into this world—the light that burns inside of you." 

Rengoku reached out, his hand hovering for a moment before gently resting over yours on the table. He noticed how sweaty they felt, even flushed. "If you're wondering why I chose you, the answer is simple: because there's no one else like you. You're one of a kind, and I would be a fool not to see that. I love you for everything you are and I will keep loving you, no matter what. Even if you push me away, even if the world tries to separate me from you, my feelings won't change. The only place where I belong is by your side. You've carved a place in my heart that no one else can fill, and I intend to cherish that for as long as I live." 

Rengoku sat back slightly, his hand still resting over yours. "I hope that answers your question, (Y/N)."

Your face was on fire. Rengoku's words had been so sincere, so heartfelt, that they left you completely disarmed. How could you possibly respond to something like that? Every word he said had hit you like a wave, crashing over your heart and leaving you overwhelmed. Your mouth opened to say something, anything, but no sound came out. Instead, you stared at him, your cheeks burning hotter than the sun. 

Rengoku tilted his head slightly, waiting for your response, but when he noticed your increasingly crimson face, a broad grin spread across his lips. A moment later, he erupted into booming laughter, the sound echoing through the lively streets. His shoulders shook with each hearty laugh, his hand slapping the table as if to steady himself. 

"PFF—HAHAHAHA! (Y/N), YOUR FACE! It's—oh my goodness—it's so red! I can't—I can't take it!" Tears began streaming down his face as he laughed uncontrollably, his eyes wrinkling with pure amusement. 

Your embarrassment only deepened. You buried your face in your hands, groaning. "Kyojuro! Stop it! You're making it worse!" 

"I'm sorry—I really am!" he managed between gasps, though his laugh only grew louder. "But I can't stop! You're just too cute! That expression—it's priceless!" 

People around you started glancing over, their expressions ranging from amused to perplexed. You felt their eyes on you and groaned again, shrinking in your seat. You reached for your glass of water, taking a long sip in a desperate attempt to cool down and compose yourself. 

"Seriously, stop laughing! It's embarrassing!" you hissed at him, though your voice cracked slightly. 

He clutched his stomach, now nearly doubled over. "I-I'm trying! But—your face—it's too much! It's perfect! I'll treasure that image forever! I've truly won in life!"

"Kyojuro!" You threw a napkin at him, which only made him laugh harder. 

Eventually, his laughter began to subside. He wiped his tear-streaked face, his cheeks flushed from exertion, and reached for his own glass of water. After taking a deep sip, he sighed contentedly and looked at you with a gentle smile.

"Ah... that was incredible! I don't think I've laughed like that in a long time." 

You scowled at him, though your expression lacked any real malice. "Well, I'm glad you enjoyed yourself. Meanwhile, I almost died of embarrassment." 

He chuckled softly, shaking his head. "I'm sorry, (Y/N). I truly am. But seeing you so flustered was... it made me so happy. You're adorable, you know that?" 

Your face heated up again, but this time, you managed to keep your composure. Barely.

"But enough about that. I actually wanted to ask you something." 

"...Oh? What is it?" 

Rengoku leaned forward slightly, his expression soft yet serious, as though he was about to share something important. "It's a simple question, really, but it's one that matters a great deal to me..." 

You tilted your head, the remnants of your embarrassment giving way to genuine curiosity. "Go on," you urged, your heart beating just a little faster. 

Rengoku's eyes lit up with curiosity, leaning forward, his signature enthusiasm radiating from him. "What do you like about me?" he asked, tinged with genuine interest. 

You blinked, caught entirely off guard by the question. "What do I like... about you?" you repeated, unsure if you'd heard him correctly. 

"Yes!" He nodded eagerly, his grin wide and expectant, like a child awaiting praise. 

You hesitated, suddenly hyperaware of his intense gaze. "Uhhh... everything?" you offered, a weak smile tugging at your lips. 

His expression turned mischievous, his eyebrows raising as he leaned back with an exaggerated scoff. "Cute answer, but no! That's not specific enough!" 

"It's true, though!" you argued, feeling the heat rise in your cheeks. 

"Try harder!"

You sighed, burying your face in your hands as you tried to think of something meaningful. "Uh... let me think, okay?" 

"HAHAHA! You have to think that much?"

"L-Leave me alone! I want to say something nice!" you shot back, your voice muffled by your hands. 

He chuckled, crossing his arms and watching you with amused patience. "Take your time. I'll wait." You peeked at him through your fingers, noting the teasing glint in his eye. "...Still no answer?" he prompted after a beat, clearly unable to resist poking fun. 

"GIVE ME A FEW MORE MINUTES!"

His laughter rang out again, his shoulders shaking as he held his stomach. "Oh, (Y/N)... You're too fun to tease," he said, his tone softening as he smiled at you warmly. "You don't have to answer if it's too hard—" 

"Your smile," you blurted out, interrupting him. 

"My what?" 

You fumbled, suddenly regretting your outburst. "I mean—not just your smile! Well, your smile is part of it, but I mean... your laugh." 

He tilted his head, his eyes narrowing slightly in curiosity. "My laugh?" 

"Yeah..." You shifted uncomfortably, glancing down at the table as your cheeks burned. 

"...And what about my laugh?"

You took a deep breath, feeling the weight of his expectant gaze. "It's just... it's so genuine. When you laugh, it's like... the whole world stops for a moment. It's loud and unrestrained, but it's so honest. It feels like it comes from the deepest part of you, like you're sharing a piece of your heart with everyone who hears it." 

"Go on," he encouraged gently. 

"It's not just the sound, It's what it represents. Your laugh is so full of life and joy, like you're celebrating every moment, no matter how small. It's... comforting. It makes me feel safe. It's impossible not to smile when I hear it. It's like... it's contagious, you know? Even when I'm having the worst day, just hearing you laugh makes everything feel a little lighter." 

Rengoku's mouth parted slightly, his eyes locked on yours as if you'd just told him the most profound truth in the universe. "...And how does it make you feel?"

You hesitated, your fingers fidgeting with a loose thread on your sleeve. "It makes me feel... warm. Like I'm wrapped in this invisible blanket of safety and happiness. It's like... no matter what happens, as long as you're here, everything will be okay. Your laugh makes me feel happy. It makes me feel... cherished." 

...

The silence that followed was deafening. Rengoku's face turned as red as his haori, his wide eyes staring at you in stunned silence. For the first time, the ever-confident Flame Hashira was utterly speechless. 

"W-Wow..." he finally managed to stammer, his voice cracking slightly. 

You smirked, despite your own embarrassment. "How the tables have turned," you muttered, reaching for your bun to avoid looking directly at him. 

He still couldn't find the words, his mouth opening and closing as his face grew impossibly redder. Then, almost as if it slipped out without him meaning to, he murmured, "God, I love you so much, you know that?" 

Your hand froze mid-reach, your eyes snapping to him. "What?" 

Realizing what he'd just said, Rengoku immediately turned his head, pretending to admire the scenery as he rested his chin on his hand. His expression was hidden, but the deep crimson spreading to his ears was impossible to miss. 

You stared at him for a moment, your heart pounding wildly in your chest. Slowly, you turned back to your bun, breaking off a piece and popping it into your mouth to distract yourself from the fluttering warmth spreading through you. 

Meanwhile, Rengoku stole a glance at you from the corner of his eye, a soft smile tugging at his lips despite his lingering embarrassment. "I truly mean it,"

The quiet moment between you and Rengoku was abruptly shattered by the shrill voice of his crow, Kaname, swooping in with all the subtlety of a storm. "RENGOKU! RENGOKU! MISSION! MISSION!" the crow squawked, flapping its wings furiously as it landed on his shoulder. "URGENT! VERY IMPORTANT MISSION!" 

...

Rengoku froze, his bright smile faltering instantly.

Silence.

Dot. Dot. Dot.

His expression shifted so dramatically that you couldn't help but stare. Gone was the cheery Flame Hashira; in his place was a man utterly drained of all joy. His lips pressed into a thin line, his eyebrows furrowed, and his eyes stared blankly ahead. He looked like the embodiment of disappointment, and somehow, it was hilarious. 

"You're joking," he deadpanned, his voice completely monotone. 

"NOT A JOKE! YOU ARE NEEDED IMMEDIATELY!" Kaname squawked, flapping again for emphasis. 

Rengoku sighed deeply, biting the inside of his cheek and pouting in a way that made him look less like a powerful warrior and more like a child denied his favorite treat. "Can I... refuse?" he asked, his voice so devoid of hope that it took you aback. 

"NO REFUSALS! THIS MISSION IS CRITICAL!" the crow barked. 

He groaned softly, his shoulders slumping as he pinched the bridge of his nose. It was rare to see him so visibly disappointed, and you couldn't help the laugh that bubbled up. 

You reached out and patted his back, trying to console him despite your amusement. "It's okay, Kyojuro. You don't need to worry. We can always go out another time." 

He turned his head to you slowly, his expression still as comically disheartened as before. "Truly?" he asked, his voice tinged with childlike hope. 

You smiled at him, nodding. "Yeah, sure. Why not?" 

For a moment, he just stared at you, the corners of his lips twitching. "...hahaha," Then, his face softened, and he straightened up. "It's odd," he murmured, almost to himself. 

You tilted your head, confused. "What is?" 

His golden eyes met yours, their warmth so genuine. "When I'm with you, I don't even have to set my heart ablaze. It's like... you do it for me."

Your breath caught in your throat, leaving you speechless. 

Before you could even think of how to respond, he reached out and pinched your cheeks gently, a playful grin replacing his earlier pout. "You're amazing, (Y/N). Truly amazing." 

He turned away, giving you a quick wave as Kaname squawked at him to hurry up. "I'll see you soon! Until we meet again, my love!" he called over his shoulder, his voice bright again. 

You stood there, watching as he walked away, your heart fluttering wildly. He was... absolutely adorable.

You stayed planted in place, your eyes glued to Rengoku's back as he walked further and further away, his bright hair swaying with each determined step.

Your heart gave a quiet flutter, and you sighed, a dreamy smile gracing your lips. "What a day..."

"It's nice to appreciate young love. It's the purest kind..."

"Ah!" You let out an involuntary squeak and whirled around, your heart leaping into your throat. Standing right behind you was the towering, serene figure of Gyomei Himejima. His hands were clasped together in his usual calm manner, and his expression radiated warmth and tranquility. You hadn't even sensed him there!

"H-Himejima! When did you—?!" you stammered, pressing a hand to your chest as if to calm your racing heart.

"My apologies for startling you," he said with a small bow of his head, his deep voice carrying its usual soothing quality. "I did not mean to intrude."

"No, no, it's fine!" You laughed nervously, trying to steady your breath. "I just didn't realize you were... standing there."

He gave a faint smile. "How are you doing, (L/N)? You seem to be in good spirits today."

"Oh, um, I'm doing fine," you said, still feeling slightly flustered. "What about you? What are you doing here?"

"I found myself with some free time, so I decided to take a walk through the town," he explained. "The fresh air and peaceful atmosphere are always refreshing. As I was passing through, I happened to hear your laughter along with Rengoku's." His smile deepened slightly. "I assumed the two of you were enjoying a date. How nice. Amen."

Your face burned at his words, and you immediately looked away, waving your hand in a flustered manner. "W-Wait, why didn't you come over to say hi if you heard us?"

"I did not wish to interrupt your moment with him," he said simply, his tone so matter-of-fact that it made you even more embarrassed.

You groaned softly, covering your face with one hand. "You didn't have to just... stay in the background like that!"

Himejima chuckled softly. "It is not my place to interfere with the joys of young love. Enjoying from afar was enough for me."

"Y-Young love..." you repeated, feeling your face grow impossibly hotter. "That's not—! Ugh, never mind!" You shook your head quickly, desperate to change the subject before you combusted on the spot. "Um, anyway... are you busy right now?"

"No, I am not," he replied, tilting his head slightly. "Why do you ask?"

You hesitated for a moment before gathering your courage. "Do you... want to hang out with me? I mean, if you're not doing anything else..."

For a moment, he seemed surprised, his eyebrows raising slightly. Then, his lips curved into a gentle, genuine smile. "I would be honored," he said, bowing his head slightly.

You let out a small breath of relief and smiled back. "Great! Let's go, then."

The two of you began walking together through the bustling streets of the town, "I must admit, I did not expect to be invited," Himejima said after a moment, his tone thoughtful. "But I am grateful for the opportunity to spend time with you."

"Well, it felt weird to just let you go without saying more," you said, glancing up at him. "And besides, you didn't interrupt anything earlier. I'm glad we ran into each other."

He chuckled softly. "You are kind, (L/N). It is always refreshing to see such warmth in others. Rengoku is fortunate to have someone like you in his life."

You felt your cheeks warm again but managed to brush it off. "You're really good at making people flustered, you know that?"

"Ah, that is not my intention," he said with a small smile. "But it is a blessing to share moments like these with others. Life is fleeting, after all. We must cherish every connection we make."

"But, um... excuse me," you began. "You're wrong."

He tilted his head slightly, curious. "Oh? About what?"

"Kyojuro and I aren't... dating," you clarified, feeling the need to get that part straight.

A soft hum escaped him. "You're not? But weren't you two just on a date?"

"Well, I mean—yeah? No! No, it wasn't a date! It was just... hanging out! Like you and me right now!"

"Mhm." His expression didn't change, but the subtle shift in his tone told you he wasn't convinced in the slightest. "And who, pray tell, are you dating then?"

Your face went red instantly. "NOBODY!" you blurted out, a little too loudly.

"Not even one of the Kamado siblings?" he asked, and you could swear you saw the faintest hint of amusement on his serene face.

"WHAT? WHERE DID YOU EVEN GET THAT FROM?"

"They're obviously harboring feelings for you," he said matter-of-factly, as if it were the most natural thing in the world.

You felt like the ground had been pulled out from under you. "How do you even know that?"

"I sense it," he replied simply, his tone calm and unshaken.

You opened your mouth to argue but stopped. Well... Tanjiro did have feelings for you, that much you knew. But Nezuko? That didn't make sense. She had always been sweet, but she didn't show any signs of that kind of interest. "You... sense wrong," you mumbled, crossing your arms defensively.

Himejima chuckled softly. "I'm not looking to upset you," he said. "I'm simply stating what I've observed."

"Oh yeah?" You raised an eyebrow, skeptical. "And what exactly have you observed?"

"The Kamados are very fond of you, especially the boy," he began, his tone even and deliberate, as though he were reciting undeniable facts. "Rengoku and Koucho are in love with you. The same goes for the Upper Moon Six woman. I am less certain about her brother, but there are some feelings there. Shinazugawa, Tomioka, Iguro, and Tokito each seem to hold a soft spot for you—perhaps even more than that. Kanroji's affection for you runs deep, and Uzui, along with his wives, share similar feelings. I may be forgetting some others, but those are the ones I recall most vividly."

You stood there, absolutely dumbfounded. Your jaw dropped as you tried to process the whirlwind of names he just listed off. "WHAT THE FUCK?!" you finally shouted, utterly overwhelmed.

Himejima didn't flinch at your outburst. If anything, his demeanor remained unshaken. "Is something the matter?" he asked, as if he hadn't just flipped your entire world upside down.

"Why do you know so much?!" you demanded, your voice rising. You couldn't believe what you were hearing. How was he so confident about this?

"You're a very interesting individual," he said, clasping his hands together again. "I suppose the others recognize that as well. It's quite amusing, actually—to see how much of an impact you have on those around you."

You ran a hand through your hair, trying to make sense of it all. "You're saying all those people have feelings for me?"

"Yes."

"That doesn't make sense!" you protested. "Half of those people barely even talk to me, in fact, some of them even load me!"

"You're wrong. None of them truly despise you. And even if you don't engage with some of them, perhaps not outwardly," Himejima said with a knowing smile. "But emotions are not always expressed through words. Some feelings run deeper than actions alone can convey."

You let out a frustrated groan, covering your face with both hands. This was too much. "I feel like I've just stepped into some bizarre alternate reality. I really think you're mistaken..."

Himejima chuckled again, the sound rich and calming. "Perhaps this knowledge feels overwhelming, but it is not meant to burden you. It is merely the truth as I perceive it."

"Yeah, well, your truth is making me question everything," you muttered, still reeling.

He paused, tilting his head slightly as if to study your emotions more closely. "You should not be troubled by this. If anything, you should be honored. Your kindness and strength have touched many lives, and it is only natural for others to feel drawn to you."

You let out a long sigh, shaking your head. "I don't even know what to say to that..."

"There is no need to say anything," he assured you, his smile soft. "Simply continue to be yourself. That alone is enough."

Though his words were comforting, you still couldn't shake the whirlwind of emotions his revelation had stirred up. You glanced at him, your expression half-accusing. "You're enjoying this, aren't you?"

"Just a little," he admitted with a gentle laugh. The conversation with Himejima took a turn you hadn't anticipated. It felt like he was enjoying this a little too much, as though you were a character in his favorite telenovela.

"I must admit," he said with a slight smile, "this is quite entertaining. Like a drama unfolding before my very ears. I wonder..." He tilted his head slightly, as if deep in thought. "Who will truly win your heart?"

You immediately groaned, your face heating up. "None of them!" you shot back, exasperated.

He raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. "None? Are you certain?"

"Yes! No one is going to 'win my heart,'" you insisted, but your tone wasn't nearly as firm as you hoped it would be.

"Hm," he hummed, unfazed. "If I had to guess, I'd say Rengoku. Or perhaps... Shinazugawa. They both seem like strong contenders."

"STOP IT!" you yelped, your hands flying to your burning cheeks. "Why are you saying stuff like that?!"

He chuckled, his deep voice resonating with quiet amusement. "You're blushing."

"Of course I am! Who wouldn't be?" you snapped, flustered.

Still smiling, he allowed the moment to settle before you finally managed to regain some composure. Trying to steer the conversation away from yourself, you hesitated before asking, "What about you? Don't you have anyone you're interested in romantically?"

His expression softened, his smile fading slightly. "No,"

"No?" you repeated, surprised.

"No," he confirmed. "No one could truly be interested in a blind man. My duties as a Demon Slayer demand much of me—too much to nurture such a connection. And even if I had the time... I imagine it would be difficult for someone to feel drawn to a man like me."

Your heart sank at his quiet admission, and you stared at him, stunned. "B-But..." you stammered, struggling to find the words. "YOU'RE SO HANDSOME THOUGH?! How could no one ever be attracted to you?!"

...

The moment the words left your mouth, you froze. Your eyes widened in horror, and your hands immediately flew to your mouth as though you could take them back.

He blinked in surprise at first, then threw his head back and laughed—a hearty laugh that filled the space between you. "You flatter me," he said warmly, ruffling your hair in a way that was both affectionate and gentle. "Thank you. That's a very kind thing to say."

You groaned inwardly. "I can't believe I said that out loud..."

"You did," he teased lightly, still smiling. "But I feel very flattered, so I thank you again."

"Well, it's true..."

He chuckled again, his expression softening even further. "You, too, are a very ethereal woman."

You blinked, caught off guard. "What? How can you say that? How would you even know if I'm... pretty?"

He paused, his smile unwavering. "I don't need to see you to know," he said simply. His tone grew quieter, almost reverent, as he continued, "Though I may not be able to see you, my heart perceives the essence of your soul. And that alone is enough for me to say with certainty that you are truly one of the most beautiful women to ever exist. That is very much the truth."

You stared at him, utterly speechless. Slowly, you raised your hands to your face, covering it entirely except for your wide, astonished eyes. "...I refuse to believe you're not married or have at least ten suitors," you mumbled through your hands, your voice muffled.

Himejima chuckled once more. "You're too kind, but no, I am neither married nor pursued. And that is perfectly fine. My life's purpose lies elsewhere."

"Your life's purpose..." you repeated softly, your voice thoughtful. "You mean fighting demons?"

Himejima nodded. "Yes. Protecting humanity is a noble cause—one I dedicate my entire being to. It is a path I chose willingly, and I have no regrets."

You looked at him for a moment, trying to gauge the depth of his resolve. "But... doesn't it ever get lonely?" you asked hesitantly. "I mean, don't you ever wish for more than just... duty?"

"Loneliness is a part of life, even those surrounded by people can feel its sting. But I have found peace in my solitude. It allows me to reflect, to strengthen my spirit, and to better serve those who rely on me. Also, I'm not entirely lonely. I have companions who stay with me everyday." He must have meant the Master and the other Hashira.

"That's... admirable, I guess. But it sounds so heavy. Don't you ever wish you could just... I don't know, take a break? Be selfish for once?"

"And what would I do with such a break?"

You shrugged, leaning back slightly as you thought. "I don't know. Travel, maybe? Eat your favorite foods, go to festivals, meet new people... fall in love, even. Just... live for yourself."

Himejima's smile softened, and he turned his head slightly as if looking into the distance. "It's a beautiful thought," he admitted. "But the world we live in is far from peaceful. To live for oneself is a luxury not afforded to many, especially those of us who bear the weight of protecting others."

You fell quiet, his words a sobering reminder of the harsh reality you both existed in. But still, you couldn't let go of the idea. "But don't you think you deserve that kind of happiness too? Even just a little?"

He turned his gaze back to you, his unseeing eyes filled with a quiet warmth. "And what of you?" he asked. "You speak of happiness as though it is something far away, but what about your own? Are you living for yourself?"

You blinked. "Me?" you asked, pointing at yourself.

He nodded. "Yes. You seem to carry a heavy burden as well. Are you not deserving of the same joy you wish for me?"

You hesitated, his question hitting closer to home than you'd like to admit. "I... I don't know," you said softly. "I guess I never really thought about it. I mean, life's been... difficult to say the least. Sometimes, it feels like I'm just trying to keep up with everything. But... I don't think I've ever really stopped to think about what I want. There's some stuff I need to accomplish yet."

Himejima's expression grew contemplative, and he nodded slowly. "Life often sweeps us away in its current, leaving little time for reflection. But it is important to pause, even if just for a moment, and ask yourself what truly matters to you."

You looked down at your hands, his words stirring something deep within you. "What truly matters..."

He placed a large, comforting hand on your shoulder, his touch grounding. "You are stronger than you realize," he said kindly. "And you deserve to find your own happiness, just as much as anyone else."

"Thank you,"

"It is the truth,"

"You know," you said, glancing at him with a smile, "for someone who claims to have no suitors, you sure know how to make a person feel special."

"Perhaps it is a talent I have yet to recognize," he said lightly.

"Its okay! If some time passes and there's still nobody falling for you, then don't worry—i'll be your number one suitor!" Your bold declaration hung in the air for a moment, and Himejima chuckled.

"Then I hope nobody falls for me," he replied, his tone carrying a subtle, genuine appreciation for your words.

You grinned. "Well, don't go around making it too easy for me. You might find I take my suitor duties very seriously."

He laughed again, his shoulders shaking slightly. "If that is the case, then I will consider myself fortunate to have such a dedicated suitor. Though I must warn you, my life may not make it an easy task."

You waved your hand dismissively, leaning slightly toward him with a confident smirk. "Easy tasks are boring. I like a challenge."

A faint rustling caught both of your attention. You glanced around, scanning the dimly lit street, until a small orange-and-white cat padded out from a nearby alley. Its movements were cautious, ears twitching as it assessed the unfamiliar figures before it.

"Oh, look!" you exclaimed, pointing. "A cat!"

Himejima tilted his head slightly, listening intently. "I can hear its soft steps," he said, his voice tinged with curiosity. "It sounds young."

You crouched down slowly, extending a hand toward the feline. "Hey there, little one," you said softly, your tone gentle and coaxing.

The cat froze for a moment, its wide eyes locked on you. Then, with hesitant steps, it began to approach, its nose twitching as it sniffed the air around you.

"It's so tiny," you whispered, glancing back at Himejima. "Do you like cats?"

"I love then—They are remarkable creatures," he replied, his voice carrying a note of fondness. "Independent yet affectionate. Observant, yet playful. There is much to admire in their nature."

The cat finally reached your outstretched hand, its soft fur brushing against your fingertips. It purred quietly, leaning into your touch. "It likes me," you said with a grin.

"It seems to sense your kindness," Himejima observed.

Encouraged by the cat's acceptance, he lowered himself to sit on the ground beside you, his large presence surprisingly gentle. He extended a hand. The cat sniffed his fingers briefly before pressing its tiny head against his palm.

"It seems to like you too," you noted, watching as he stroked the cat with slow, steady movements.

"It's a reminder," he said softly, "that even the smallest, most vulnerable creatures are drawn to kindness. It is a lesson we could all learn from."

The two of you took turns petting the cat, its purring growing louder as it basked in the attention.

...

"Do you ever think about what life would be like if demons didn't exist?"

Himejima paused, his hand resting lightly on the cat's back. "I have thought about it," he admitted. "Perhaps it would be a simpler life. One without the constant weight of loss and duty. But I also wonder if we would appreciate peace as much without knowing what it is to fight for it."

You nodded, absently scratching behind the cat's ears. "Yeah... I guess you're right. It's just hard not to imagine a world where everyone we've lost could still be here. Where we could just... live."

"And what would you do in such a world?"

You opened your mouth to respond, but no words came out. Your mind went utterly blank, like a slate wiped clean.

A world without demons.

A world where there were no battles to fight,

no lives to save,

no characters to protect,

no story to change.

What would you even do?

"I..." you started, then faltered. Your gaze dropped to the cat, its rhythmic purring grounding you as you tried to form a coherent thought. "I don't know."

Himejima tilted his head slightly, the quiet hum of curiosity evident in his expression. "You don't know?"

You shook your head, your brows furrowing as you searched for an answer. "It's just... I can't imagine it. A world where there's nothing to do. Nothing to fight for. No one to protect." You paused, your fingers brushing through the cat's fur absentmindedly. "What would even happen in a world like that? Would I stay with my friends? Would they even want to stay with me?"

Himejima's smile was soft, patient. "Why wouldn't they?"

You let out a shaky laugh, though it held little humor. "Because... without the fights, the deaths, the... purpose we all share, what's left? Would we still matter to each other? Or would we just drift apart, like leaves in the wind?"

The cat shifted slightly, rolling onto its side and batting lazily at your hand. You stared at it, using the motion to anchor your swirling thoughts.

"I don't know who I'd be in a world like that," you admitted quietly. "So much of my life has been tied to this... this mission. This story. If it all ended, what would I even do? Who would I be?"

Himejima was silent for a moment, his hand resting lightly on the ground beside him. "It's not uncommon to feel adrift when the foundation of your life changes," he said eventually, his tone thoughtful. "But I think you underestimate the depth of your bonds. The people you call your friends—they care for you not because of the battles you fight together, but because of who you are. Your heart. Your soul. Those things do not disappear in times of peace."

You blinked at him, his words settling over you like a warm blanket. "...But what if I don't know who I am without all of this?"

Himejima leaned forward slightly, his massive presence somehow still gentle. "Then that is the journey you must take," he said simply. "To discover who you are, beyond the roles you have played. To explore the quiet parts of yourself that may have been overshadowed by the noise of your responsibilities."

"That sounds... terrifying," you admitted.

"All great journeys are," he said. "But they are also where we find our greatest truths."

The cat meowed suddenly, as if in agreement, and both of you looked down at the tiny creature now pawing at Himejima's sleeve.

"It seems even this little one understands the importance of connection,"

You watched as the cat pressed against his hand, its purring growing louder. "Maybe,"

"Give yourself time," he said. "And grace. You may not have all the answers now, but that is not a failure. It is simply part of being human."

You tilted your head, studying him. "What about you...? If you could do anything, what would it be?"

He was silent for a moment, his fingers idly stroking the cat's fur. "I would be a teacher. Sharing knowledge, guiding others... it is a path that that fills both the mind and the spirit. And it is a way to leave something meaningful behind."

"You'd make an amazing teacher," you said earnestly. "You're patient, wise, and you have this way of making people feel... seen."

His smile deepened, though there was a trace of humility in it. "Thank you," he said quietly. "Your faith in me is humbling."

The moon hung high in the night sky, casting its silver glow over the quiet town. The cat had long since curled up near your lap, purring softly, when the sudden cacophony of flapping wings and shrill caws shattered the peace.

Both crows arrived at the same time, their noise startling the cat so much that it let out a startled yowl and darted into the shadows.

Zekka, Gyomei's crow, perched neatly on his arm, puffing up its feathers. "Master! Urgent mission awaits! There's trouble brewing in the east!" it squawked in its usual gruff tone.

Meanwhile, your own crow, Dodo, swooped toward you, but instead of delivering his message straight away, he made a beeline for your cheek. "OWWW! DODO!" you yelped as the bird pinched your skin with his beak.

"Hmph!" Dodo fluffed his feathers indignantly, clearly still holding a grudge from earlier in the day. "Two demons nearby causing a ruckus! Get moving, irresponsible Master!"

You sighed, rubbing your sore cheek. "I said I was sorry, Dodo! Can we let it go already?"

Dodo ignored your plea, landing on your shoulder with an exaggerated flap of his wings. "Time is wasting! Get a move on, already!"

Himejima chuckled softly at the exchange, Zekka still perched calmly on his arm. "It seems our paths diverge for now,"

You nodded, your heart sinking a little at the realization that the peaceful moment you'd shared had come to an end. "Yeah, looks like it's time to get back to work."

Standing, you brushed off your clothes and turned to face him. "Thank you for hanging out with me today, Himejima. It was... really nice."

"The pleasure was mine. Thank you for the wonderful company, (L/N)."

"Oh," you stammered, "you can just call me (Y/N). You don't need to be so formal."

Gyomei inclined his head slightly. "Then please, call me Gyomei as well."

"Well," you said finally, taking a deep breath, "I guess I should get going. Be safe out there, Gyomei."

"And you as well, (Y/N). May your path be free of harm."

With that, you both turned to go your separate ways, the sounds of your respective crows squawking instructions filling the air.

As you walked toward your mission, you found yourself glancing back once, catching a final glimpse of Gyomei's figure disappearing into the night. A small smile tugged at your lips. Somehow, the world felt a little less daunting after spending time with him.

Your crow squawked again, snapping you out of your thoughts. "Focus, Master! Two demons! Remember?"

"Yeah, yeah, I'm on it," you muttered, steeling yourself for whatever lay ahead. "Are you still mad at me? You know you're still my sweet baby,"

"Blew!"

——————————————————————————

You arrive at the scene, the eerie silence hanging in the air like a thick, invisible fog. The dim moonlight casted long shadows over the empty forest, broken only by the faint cries of terrified citizens echoing from ahead. Your instincts kicked in, and you moved quickly toward the commotion.

Turning the corner, your gaze locked on two demons towering over a group of cowering townsfolk. One of the demons, a lanky figure with jagged teeth and unnervingly long arms, chuckled as he loomed over his prey. The other, a burly brute with horns that curve like a ram's, grinned wickedly, his clawed hand reaching out toward a trembling child.

"Hey!" Your voice cut through the tension like a blade, and the demons freeze mid-action, their heads snapping in your direction. "Leave those people alone!"

"Well, well, look at this," the lanky demon sneered, licking his lips. "A brave little human thinks they can play hero. How cute."

The burly demon let out a low growl, cracking his knuckles. "Looks like we'll be having dessert after all."

Without hesitation, the lanky demon lunged at you, claws outstretched. You brace yourself, ready to counter his attack, but just as he was about to strike, the burly demon grabbed him by the collar and yanked him back mid-air.

"YOU ABSOLUTE MORON!" the burly demon roared, shaking his smaller companion like a ragdoll.

...?

"What the hell are you doing?!" the lanky demon snapped, struggling to break free.

"What am I doing?! What the hell are you doing?! Are you blind, you idiot?!"

The lanky demon finally wriggled free, landing clumsily on his feet. "What the fuck are you talking about? I'm attacking her! Obviously!"

"YOU CAN'T ATTACK HER, YOU IMBECILE! LOOK!" The burly demon gestured dramatically toward you.

The lanky demon squinted at you, his expression morphing from annoyance to dawning horror. He suddenly let out a high-pitched squeal, stumbling backward. "OH, SHIT! THAT'S—THAT'S LORD MUZAN'S PLAYTHING!" He clutched his chest as if he's narrowly avoided a heart attack. "I almost killed her. Holy crap. Good save, man. Good save."

You blinked, utterly baffled. "Muzan's what?" you asked, your tone flat and incredulous.

The two demons freezes, glancing at each other nervously before turning their attention back to you. The burly one immediately dropped to his knees, dragging the lanky one down with him. Both bowed their heads deeply, trembling.

"S-Sorry, miss—uh, whatever your name or title is!!" the burly demon stammered. "We didn't know! Please spare our miserable lives!"

"Yeah, yeah!" the lanky demon chimed in, nodding furiously. "It was a total mistake! Honest! We didn't mean anything by it!"

You stared at them, your confusion mounting. "What the FUCK are you two talking about?" At this point, the citizens you were trying to save ran away from the scene.

The demons exchanged another nervous glance, their fear palpable.

"Ehhh... Wait," the lanky demon said hesitantly, pointing a shaky claw at you. "You're not... Lord Muzan's, uh, personal... y'know?"

"HUH!" you shouted, throwing your hands in the air. "PERSONAL WHAT?!"

"...dude, I think it's not her."

"SHE DEFINITELY IS!" They both looked at you once again. "LOOK AT HER!"

"...no. You're wrong." The demon turned to look at you. "Woman. Are you or are you not Muzan's plaything?"

"Why the heck would I be his plaything?!"

"Are you sure?" the burly demon asked, his voice cautious. He then pointed at your arm. "You've got the mark and everything..."

Before either of them could finish their sentence so you could get a proper answer, the two demons suddenly stopped moving. Their heads were severed in an instant, detached from their bodies in a swift, clean slice. Blood sprayed across the grass as their bodies crumple to the ground. You stumbled back.

"Yoo-hoo!" A sudden voice called, a infuriatingly cheerful tone sending a chill down your spine. You tried to turn around but two cold, pale hands covered your eyes.

"Hi, (Y/N)! Can you guess who I am?" he chirped.

"D-Douma?!" you stammered, heart racing as your fingers instinctively twitched toward your temporary sword.

"Oh wow! Are you really that used to me already?" He chuckled and dropped his hands, stepping in front of you with a flourish. "Hello there! Did you miss me?"

"What are you doing here?!" you snapped, taking several hurried steps back, your instincts on high alert. In your retreat, your back collided with something—or someone—solid and unyielding.

"(Y/N)..."

You whirled around, eyes wide, only to find yourself face-to-face with a familiar figure. "... Akaza." His name left your lips in a barely audible whisper as your breath caught in your throat.

The sight of him made your chest tighten. You hated to admit it, but seeing him again stirred something within you that wasn't just fear.

It was pure uneasiness.

Your grip tightened around the hilt of your sword, the leather biting into your palm. Akaza's piercing eyes bore into yours. Neither of you said a word.

"(Y/N), why are you so tense?" Douma's voice broke the silence, his playful tone grating against your nerves. "It's alright! Me and pookie here aren't going to attack you. Right, Lord Akaza?" He cast a sly glance at the other demon.

"..." Akaza remained silent, his gaze never leaving yours. You couldn't stop staring at him, your heart pounding in your chest as if it were trying to escape.

"Oh, I sense some tension!" Douma laughed, clearly amused by the standoff. Before you could react, he snatched your sword from your hands with unnatural speed. "There, problem solved!" With a swift motion, he snapped the blade in two like it was nothing. "No more causing trouble now!"

You gasped, instinctively taking another step back, but Douma wasn't done. He tilted his head, studying you with a pout. "You're still so stiff! Come on, relax. I mean it—we're not here to attack you—wait!" He paused, his eyes lighting up as if he'd just remembered something. "Ohhh, right! Akaza almost killed you not too long ago, didn't he? Silly me! No wonder you're so terrified of him."

"Shut up," Akaza growled, filled with warning as his sharp eyes flicked to him.

You swallowed hard, forcing yourself to calm down. What was the point of fear now? If they wanted to kill you, they would have already done it. Taking a deep breath, you steadied yourself. "Alright," you said slowly, lifting your chin. "I'll trust you two for now."

"Yay!" Douma cheered, clapping his hands like an overexcited child.

"But," you continued, your tone firm, "I need some explaining. What the hell was that back there? What mark? What were those demons talking about? Muzan's plaything?"

Douma giggled, clearly unbothered by your frustration. "Oh dear. Looks like we arrived a little late, didn't we?"

"Huh?"

He waved a hand dismissively. "I guess we're forced to tell you the truth, huh?"

Akaza's expression darkened, and he shot him a glare. "Don't mess around,"

Douma only laughed again, clearly enjoying himself. "Relax, Akaza. Let me handle this." He turned back to you, his smile never faltering. "Alright, (Y/N), let me fill you in. You might want to sit down for this. It's going to be quite the story..."

Your stomach dropped at his words. Whatever he was about to say, you could already tell it was going to change everything.

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Douma clapped his hands together. "Oh, but the best part? When bargaining didn't work, you switched tactics. You started flirting with him and said super freaky stuff! I personally didn't know you were such lustful person!"

"WHAT?!" you shrieked, nearly toppling over from the sheer shock.

"Oh, yes," Douma continued, thoroughly enjoying himself. "'Lord Muzan, you're so hot, your voice is so commanding, I think I just wet my panties.'" He mimicked your voice in a high-pitched tone, then doubled over in laughter. "I've never seen anything like it! Even Lord Muzan looked like he didn't know whether to kill you or keep you as a pet!"

"SHUT UPPPPPP!" You covered your face with both hands, wishing the ground would just swallow you whole. "I REFUSE TO BELIEVE THIS!"

Douma was practically rolling on the ground now, clutching his stomach. "Oh, the look on your face! This is priceless!"

Akaza groaned, stepping forward with an impatient sigh. "Enough."

The shift in his tone silenced even Douma's laughter. You peeked through your fingers to see Akaza staring at you, his expression unusually serious.

"Look," Akaza began, "as much as I hate to admit it, Douma isn't lying. You did those things. And for some reason, instead of killing you, Muzan decided that it was better to keep you and... mark you."

You lowered your hands, frowning. "Mark me? What does that even mean?"

Douma, for once, looked almost somber. He tapped his fan against his knee, his tone softening. "It's a mark only demons can see. A symbol of Muzan's authority. To us, it's like a glowing brand that says, 'This one is untouchable. Kill them, and you're dead.'"

Your blood ran cold. "Untouchable?"

Akaza nodded. "It's a warning. No demon under Muzan's curse would dare lay a hand on you. It's... a form of protection, I guess."

"But why?" you asked, your voice shaking. "Why would he do that?"

Douma shrugged, his usual playful demeanor dulled by the weight of the topic. "Who knows? Probably you're very important to him. Maybe he's amused by you. Or maybe it's just another one of his twisted games."

You sank to the ground, your legs suddenly too weak to hold you up. Your mind raced, trying to piece it all together. You'd been dragged into something far bigger than yourself, marked by the King of Demons, bound to a fate you didn't understand.

"This can't be happening," you muttered, your voice barely above a whisper. "I didn't ask for this. I didn't—"

"It doesn't matter what you asked for," Akaza interrupted. "This is your reality now. You've been marked by Muzan, and there's no going back."

Douma leaned down, his smile returning but with a hint of softness. "Cheer up. It's not all bad. You're still alive, aren't you? That's more than most people can say when they cross paths with Lord Muzan."

You looked up at him. "Alive? Is that supposed to make me feel better? I'm marked like some kind of property! How am I supposed to live like this?!"

Akaza sighed, turning away. "You'll figure it out. Just don't do anything stupid, like trying to confront him. That would only get you killed."

Your hands clenched into fists as you processed everything Douma and Akaza had just said. Anger bubbled up inside you, hotter than before, and you turned sharply to Akaza, your eyes blazing.

"Alright, and why the hell didn't you tell me any of this earlier?!" you shouted, your voice cutting through the stillness of the forest. "Do you have any idea what could've happened? What if I accidentally put my friends in danger because I didn't know about this mark or what it meant?!"

Akaza stiffened, his posture tense as he avoided your gaze. "I... I didn't want to worry you,"

"Worry me?!" You threw your hands up in exasperation. "You think telling me now, after I've been wandering around clueless, is better? Do you have any idea how many situations I've been in where this could've gone horribly wrong?!"

He finally looked at you, his expression hard but conflicted. "You're safe. That's what matters. If I told you earlier, you would've panicked—and panicking gets people killed."

"I would've panicked? Are you kidding me? How do you think I feel now?!" You gestured wildly at yourself, your voice breaking slightly. "I've been walking around like everything's fine, completely clueless about this... this invisible bullseye on my back! You should've told me, Akaza!"

Douma stepped between the two of you, waving his fan in the air like a referee calling for a time-out. "Oh, calm down! There's really no need to make such a fuss. It's not like anyone can see the mark except demons under Muzan's curse."

You glared at him, unamused. "Oh, great. So it's just visible to a bunch of bloodthirsty demons who report to the guy who marked me. That's so much better. Thanks for that."

Douma chuckled, completely unfazed by your sarcasm. "You're welcome! But seriously, it's fine. Humans can't see it, you can't see it, and even demons who aren't under Muzan's influence wouldn't know it's there. It's like a secret club. Exclusive membership, you know?"

"Secret club?" you repeated incredulously. "I didn't ask to join this stupid club!"

Without thinking, you rolled up your sleeve and looked at your arm, frantically searching for any sign of the mark. "Where is it? Is it here? Do I have some creepy symbol burned into my skin or something?"

Douma leaned over, peering at your arm with exaggerated curiosity. "Oh, don't bother looking, sweet thing. You won't see it. Like I said, it's invisible to you."

"What?!" You turned to him, your voice rising. "How is that even possible? It's on me! How can I not see it?"

Akaza stepped closer. "It's part of Muzan's curse. Only demons who are bound to him can see it."

You groaned loudly, tugging your sleeve back down. "Great. Fantastic. So I'm walking around with a magical Muzan barcode that I can't even see, but every demon under his thumb knows exactly what it means. That's just... perfect."

Douma patted your shoulder with a cheerful grin. "Oh, don't be so dramatic! It's not like it glows in the dark or anything. And besides, it's saving your life, isn't it?"

You shrugged his hand off with a glare. "That doesn't make it better! I don't want to be saved by some mark Muzan slapped on me like I'm his property!"

Akaza sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Look, I get it. It's not ideal. But stressing about it isn't going to change anything. You're safe for now. That's what matters."

"Safe?" you repeated, your voice shaking with disbelief. "I don't feel safe, Akaza. I feel like a walking target with no idea what I'm supposed to do next." Then, you gazed at him, eyes full of betrayal. "And I trusted you... And I thought you were by my side... I'm a fucking idiot for even considering that I perhaps mattered to you."

...

For once, neither of them had anything to say.

After a long moment, Douma broke the silence with a bright, "Well, look on the bright side! At least now you know! And if anyone dares to mess with you, they'll have to deal with Lord Muzan's wrath. Isn't that comforting?"

You shot him a withering glare, and he just laughed. Akaza, meanwhile, gave you a look that was apologetic and as much as he wanted to respond to you, he didn't want Douma to hear it. Akaza watched you trudge ahead with your shoulders slumped and your hood pulled low over your face. His gaze softened and he hesitated. Then, as if deciding he couldn't leave things as they were, he raised a hand to reach out to you.

But as soon as you saw his hand move, you flinched instinctively and ducked behind Douma, gripping his arm like a lifeline and using him as a shield.

...

Oh!

"...awkwardddd," Douma chirped after a moment of stunned silence, his fan hanging loosely in his hand. He craned his neck to peer at you, his usual grin plastered across his face. "Why are you hiding on my back, darling? Did Akaza scare you? Oh no, you poor thing!"

You peeked out from behind Douma's shoulder, glaring daggers at Akaza. "Don't you dare touch me," you hissed, your voice trembling with lingering anger.

Douma, ever the opportunist, tilted his head with a dumbfounded smile before his expression lit up with delight. "Awww! Would you look at this? (Y/N) prefers me over you, Akaza! Yipee!" He raised his arms in celebration, grinning so wide it looked like his face might split in two. "This is a day for the history books!"

Akaza stood still, his hand slowly dropping back to his side. He wouldn't deny it. You clearly felt safer with Douma, and as ridiculous as the whole situation was, it stung. Your words and actions hit harder than he cared to admit, but he swallowed the lump in his throat and said nothing.

You, still fuming, took a step back from Douma's side and crossed your arms. "You know what? I'm done. I'm tired of this nonsense." You turned sharply, your tone sharp and resolute. "I'm going home. I don't need either of you following me, got it?"

Akaza frowned, his jaw tightening, but Douma was the one to speak up first. "Oh, but (Y/N), are you sure you'll be alright? What if some nasty little demon decides to take a bite out of you on your way home? You wouldn't want that, would you?"

You rolled your eyes. "I'll be fine. I don't need either of you babysitting me."

Douma pouted dramatically, resting his cheek against his hand. "But we'd miss you so much!?"

You turned on your heel and began walking away, your pace brisk and determined. "I said no. Don't follow me. I'll be fine on my own."

Of course, your defiance didn't last long.

By the time you reached the edge of the forest, you were exhausted, frustrated, and more than a little unnerved by the weight of everything you'd just learned. When you finally glanced over your shoulder, you weren't even surprised to see Douma and Akaza trailing you at a distance, as casual as ever.

"Are you serious?!" you shouted, throwing your hands up.

"We're just making sure you're safe!" Douma called back with a wave. "Don't mind us!"

"I told you not to follow me!"

"And we ignored you! Isn't that fun?"

"..." Akaza's gaze made it clear he wasn't about to leave you alone.

Eventually, you gave up arguing and let them tail you—at least until they escorted you, much to your dismay, straight to the Butterfly Mansion.

Standing at the gates, you whirled on them, your face red with frustration. "I didn't ask for this!"

Douma simply smiled, tilting his head like a smug cat. "But isn't it nice to have someone looking out for you?"

You groaned, burying your face in your hands. "I can't deal with this anymore. Just... just leave."

Douma gave you a cheery wave as he turned to leave. "Rest well! We'll see you again soon!"

Akaza lingered for a moment longer, his lips parting as if he wanted to say something. But he stayed silent, eventually turning to follow Douma into the night.

The door to your room clicked shut behind you, and you leaned against it, releasing a deep, trembling sigh. The weight of everything you had learned, everything you had felt, bore down on you like a boulder. You rubbed your temples, hoping to ease the tension, and moved to sit on the edge of your bed. You needed a moment—just one moment—to yourself.

But the quiet didn't last.

The faint shift of energy in the room alerted you to another presence. It was subtle but unmistakable. You knew who it was before he even made a sound.

"What do you want, Akaza?" you asked, not bothering to turn around. Your tone was sharp, but beneath it lay exhaustion and frustration.

"I just... I wanted to say I'm sorry." he spoke, like he was afraid the wrong tone might shatter you.

You stiffened slightly but said nothing, your back still turned to him.

"I don't know where to start," he admitted after a pause. His words came slowly, as though he was carefully untangling a knot. "I've done so many things wrong, and I don't think I can fix any of it. But I need you to know that I never wanted to hurt you. That was never my intention."

His voice was unusually vulnerable, stripped of its usual confidence. He took a hesitant step closer, the sound of his movements soft against the floor. "I don't know how to explain it, but... you mean more than you realize. And I've spent so much time trying to keep you safe, to protect you in the ways I thought were best. But maybe I wasn't protecting you at all. Maybe I was only doing what I thought would ease my own fears."

The words hung in the air, raw and unguarded.

"You don't have to say anything," he continued, his tone gentler now, almost hesitant. "I know you're angry. I know I've probably ruined whatever trust you had. And I don't expect you to forgive me. But I couldn't leave things the way they were without telling you that I'm sorry. For everything."

You still didn't respond, your hands gripping the edge of the bed tightly as you stared at the floor.

"I just..." His voice faltered for a moment, and you could feel the weight of what he was holding back. "I just wanted you to know that I care about you. I do what I can, even though it's not much. And no matter how much you might hate me right now, I'll keep caring about you."

There was a pause. Then you heard the faint sound of his footsteps retreating.

You waited, unsure why, until the room was completely still again. Finally, you turned around, expecting to see nothing but emptiness where he had stood.

But your eyes were drawn to the window. Sitting on the windowsill was a single white yuri—a lily. Its pristine petals glowed softly in the moonlight, delicate and pure.

You froze, your chest tightening as you stared at it. Slowly, you stood and approached the window, your fingers brushing lightly against the soft petals.

You stood there for a long time, staring at the lily, unsure whether to feel comforted or perturbed.

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Taisho Secrets :

— The mark was put by Muzan as some sort of "protective charm". It's a mark so demons don't attack you. It's there to show that you are a special property of him that should not be touched or damaged.

— Only demons who are under Muzan's curse can see it. Humans or free-curse demons can't (such as Nezuko, Gyutaro, Tamayo, Yushiro nor Daki). Not even you are able to see the mark.

— The mark was put on you after the trial at the infinity castle.

— it covers your entire right arm.

— on chapter #65 when you and Akaza were doing the freaky stuff, he kissed you and "marked" your body as a futile attempt to get rid of the mark and Muzan's scent. It didn't work—only the king of demons can take it off.

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Xoxo, azamishomie.