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3RD POV
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She was...odd.

For all that he had lived, he hadn't expected to stumble upon her.

In the initial days following the encounter, a subtle yet profound transformation started to take root within him. It was as though a veil had been lifted, dispelling an illusion that once shrouded his mind, leaving behind apathy and anger. With each passing moment, the fabric of his old perceptions began to unravel, making way for a fresh perspective to take hold.

The doubts had reared their ugly head again.

As his allegiance teetered on the edge of uncertainty, he found himself questioning why he remained in the service of this man. One facet of his being, the ruthless and power-hungry creature within, clamored for dominion and control. Yet, a suppressed part of him, dormant for centuries and silenced by the passage of time, now emerged in hushed whispers: fear.

This unsettling emotion, long banished from his consciousness, crept back into his heart, reminding him of vulnerabilities he had long sought to bury.

The grip of mortality's terror, the dread of becoming an insignificant specter, and the haunting apprehension of inadequacy and weakness all resurfaced with a vengeance. These primal fears rekindled the old insecurities and deep-seated resentments that had plagued him for years, driving him to a state of self-obliteration. In his relentless pursuit of power, he had forsaken his own humanity, morphing into the very thing he had vowed to vanquish. All in a desperate bid to surpass the one he loathed beyond measure.

As though emerging from a prolonged nightmare, he suddenly awakened to the harsh reality of his actions. The weight of his deeds finally came crashing down upon him, and he could no longer ignore the truth.

The weight of his sins bore heavily upon his soul, a burden he could no longer ignore. As he remembered all the destruction he had wrought, a gnawing sense of regret clawed at his heart.

For him, power and dominance were the true measures of greatness, but now, the faces of those he had harmed, the innocent lives he had shattered came to the forefront, tearing away at the facade of the cold-hearted creature he had become.

For four centuries, a relentless cycle of bloodshed defined his existence, all under the sway of that man's influence.

His heart was burdened with shame..

In the quiet moments of introspection, he found himself grappling with the choices that led him down this dark path. He realized that he had allowed anger and bitterness to consume him, blinding him to the beauty of compassion and empathy.

He... What had he become?

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The once compelling scent of blood now held no allure, and the very idea of consuming human flesh filled him with repulsion.

The desire to feast on humans had completely vanished from within him.

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This Lith, she had orchestrated this transformation within him, forcing him to confront the person he had evolved into. Now, he felt an undeniable urge to seek her out and confront her...

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As peculiar as her attire may have been, he recognized her instantly. At that very moment, an inexplicable transformation washed over him, altering the essence of his being. He could no longer lay claim to the person he once was, for in her presence, something profound had shifted within him, forever changing the landscape of his emotions.

Though he was fully aware that offense or irritation should have been his immediate response, a strange sensation overcame him the moment he experienced that familiar and comforting presence once more. Like the delicate alignment of puzzle pieces, something clicked within him, and an unexpected yearning surfaced, urging him not to let go of that soothing aura.

"I wish...to serve you."

__________

In the midst of confusion, she found herself shivering from the cold. Clutching something small and icy in her arms, she couldn't comprehend her surroundings or why the scent of blood was strangely alluring. The blend of emotions left her feeling not just cold and confused but also with an unexpected sensation of hunger.

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Having found her prey, a relentless hunger consumed her. The insatiable urge to devour it overwhelmed her senses, yet an unsettling feeling gnawed at her conscience. The prey resisted vehemently, pleading and shouting words she couldn't comprehend.

Nonetheless, the pangs of hunger pushed her forward, causing her to grow and become more potent, determined to fulfill her voracious appetite. The internal struggle between her desire to feed and the faint echoes of empathy continued as she sought to sate her ravenous craving.

Her growth seemed unstoppable as she loomed over her supposed prey, on the verge of indulging her unyielding hunger. But then, at the last moment, she discerned the words being spoken.

"It" wasn't a prey; a sudden realization struck her core. She recognized him. It was Tanjiro - someone she knew, someone she cared for deeply. In that moment of clarity, the truth emerged: he was not a prey to be devoured. The veil of hunger lifted, and the identity of her "prey" became evident.

Her name was Nezuko.

A wave of emotions surged within her, and she couldn't contain her sorrow. Tears flowed as she wept for the potential darkness she had almost succumbed to, now grateful that she didn't lose herself entirely.

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Her memories were hazy at best, but a seething anger enveloped her. A sharp pain throbbed within—danger, danger!—intensifying her fury.

The desire to retaliate burned fiercely, yet she felt overpowered—DANGER!—her opponent was stronger.

Escape seemed like the only option, but then the unthinkable occurred—Tanjiro, her beloved big brother, suffered an injury.

Amidst the cold confusion and relentless hunger, witnessing her brother in pain ignited an overwhelming rage—a crimson haze clouded her vision.

In a surge of emotions, she lashed out, launching a fierce attack. The turbulent mix of adrenaline and determination drove her forward, fueled by her need to protect Tanjiro at all costs.

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Nezuko's confusion began to subside, and the chill that had gripped her faded away. Enveloped in the comforting embrace of warm arms, she felt a sense of peace.

Gently humming, [Mother] held her close, dispelling both the cold and the confusion. The nurturing warmth of [Mother]'s embrace brought a profound feeling of security.

With the reassurance of [Mother]'s love, Nezuko found solace and a newfound sense of safety. Knowing that her big brother was also out of harm's way, a serene smile graced her lips as she drifted into a peaceful slumber.

__________

She felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude, a depth of thankfulness that was hard to put into words. The need to express her appreciation was undeniable; she resolved to convey it the next time their paths crossed. However, merely sending a letter to convey her immense gratitude felt inadequate given the magnitude of the action. The idea of meeting in person through a letter was dismissed outright – it simply wouldn't do. Someone as esteemed as Colith-san deserved the utmost respect.

Curiosity tugged at her though, particularly about the enigmatic box she had heard Colith-san now carried. As questions swirled in her mind, she was suddenly interrupted by a familiar voice.

"What's on your mind, Enoki-chan?" Goto-senpai's question jolted her out of her reverie.

"Ah!" she exclaimed, caught off guard before quickly recovering, "Apologies, Goto-senpai, I got lost in thoughts."

The kakushi's stern expression softened slightly. "Maintaining your focus is essential. Distractions are a luxury we can't afford in our line of work," he reminded.

"H-Hai!" Enoki nodded earnestly, redoubling her commitment to the task at hand.

__________

Preparing to embark on his first mission, Tanjiro's heart fluttered with nervous anticipation. Yet, oddly enough, the sensation of fear was conspicuously absent. His recent sparring sessions with Tsugikuni-san had undoubtedly contributed to this newfound fortitude. The daunting prospect of confronting demons on the first night of the final selection had initially filled him with trepidation. However, the moment he faced his very first demon, the dynamics shifted dramatically.

As he instinctively swung his blade and separated the creature's head from its body, a startling realization dawned upon him – the task at hand might not be as insurmountable as he had once thought. Even when he found himself locked in a fierce battle against the hand demon, a mere moment of inattention resulted in the injury on his forehead. Despite this setback, he still managed to swiftly vanquish the monstrous foe, an accomplishment that fueled his growing confidence and determination.

However, this newfound confidence didn't translate to underestimating his future opponents. Tanjiro wasn't foolish enough to believe he held invincible power. The rigorous sparring sessions with Tsugikuni-san had certainly honed his reflexes, but he remained well aware of his journey's unfinished nature.

—He wondered why Colith-san had encouraged him to practice the Hinokami Kagura several months ago, and more intriguingly, how she had even come to know of its existence.—

He acknowledged his need for continuous growth, a realization that was deeply ingrained within him. Tsugikuni-san's reputation as one of the most formidable slayers of the Sengoku era had shocked him, a testament to the immense skill he possessed. Though the details of Tsugikuni-san's transformation into a demon remained elusive to him, Tanjiro understood the vast chasm that lay between him and the likes of Kibutsuji Muzan. This understanding was particularly reinforced by the revelation of the twelve Kizukis from which Tsugikuni-san had reigned as the most powerful for centuries until now.

He continued to marvel at how on earth Colith-san had achieved the remarkable task of subduing such a powerhouse, and he was glad that he wouldn't have to face him. Fortunately, Nezuko seemed to like him enough not to consider him an enemy, which was reassuring.

Their journey towards his first mission commenced not long after the crow's timely arrival.

His master had bestowed upon him a box, reminiscent of the one Colith-san usually carried. This gesture stirred deep emotions within him, prompting tears of gratitude that were almost overwhelming. His heart swelled even further when Colith-san offered to make the box more comfortable for Nezuko. The gesture's sincerity resonated with him, leading him to swiftly accept despite not being able to comprehend how she achieved such a thing.

"I'll just create a pocket dimension so she won't be affected by your future fights. It's bound to get rocky, don't want to cause her motion sickness now, do ya?"

Her words resonated with him, revealing a perspective he had yet to consider. Once more, he found himself deeply appreciative of her insightful approach. Without delay, he committed the knocking pattern to memory, a code to beckon Nezuko should the need arise. —Little did he know that Nezuko would be able to sense any impending danger directed at him and will spring into action at a moment's notice.

"Have you said goodbye to your friends?"

He gradually comprehended that the spirits of his master's past disciples had collectively chosen to keep their distance from Colith-san.

"Not everyone will readily accept connections with demons. Nezuko's clean hands will attract allies naturally, so there's no need to be concerned. Now, when it comes to Koku-kun, well, you're already aware of the situation. I won't force them to accept him, but I'm not leaving his side either. It's fine if they choose not to cross paths," she had said.

Sabito and Makomo were the sole exceptions, seemingly impervious to her presence, yet they consciously refrained from interacting too much with her. While this realization had initially weighed on his heart, he had to acknowledge the truth in her perspective.

Becoming a slayer while maintaining ties with demons is undoubtedly a recipe for controversy, yet he'd rather die than forsake his sister. While he remains uncertain about the intricacies of the connection between Colith-san and Tsugikuni-san, their powerful bond is unmistakable.

"No, by the time I came back, they had departed. It seems they found closure and were able to move on," he said with a gentle smile tinged with a hint of melancholy. "I'm glad," he added softly.

Colith-san emitted a soft hum of agreement, her hand offering a reassuring touch upon his shoulder before she gently withdrew it.

As they strolled along, guided by the crow whose name he had come to know as Matsuemon, a sense of nostalgia washed over him. This journey bore a semblance to their first trip two years ago, and despite the grim circumstances at the time, it ignited a comforting warmth within him.

The town they were headed towards appeared closer than he had estimated, and after a four-hour walk, they found themselves arriving at their destination.

Upon catching wind of the rumors surrounding the distressed and haggard young man, Tanjiro approached him and initiated a conversation to glean more information. Positioned atop the rooftops, Colith-san opted to remain an observer, allowing the situation to unfold. She had made it clear that she wouldn't meddle with his missions, a stance he appreciated since he wanted to improve by himself. Nonetheless, her insinuation of potential intervention if matters took a chaotic turn resonated deeply with him, stirring a sense of comfort.

A faint trace of a demonic scent lingered, but it wasn't until nightfall that the odor suddenly grew stronger, indicating the imminent presence of a demon. Tanjiro sprang into action.

__________

"Where would you place him in terms of rank?" Colith inquired, observing as Tanjiro swiftly dispatched the swamp demon before turning his attention to the rescued civilians.

"Kanoe. If he had used the Sun Breathing right from the start, I'd say he'd belong to Hinoto or Hinoe at his current level."

"I see."

"..."

"..."

A drawn-out, exasperated sigh pierced the air, "With Water Breathing, 4th rank. With Sun Breathing, maybe 7th or 8th."

"Well damn, no need to rub it in. We all know you're the smartest. Only Allah knows where on earth you got that from." she clicked her tongue, her mask concealing the stink eye directed at her replica. #1 merely responded with an amused snort before dissipating into thin air, the memories of her task returning to the masked woman in a flash.

Swiftly regaining her composure, she appeared beside Tanjiro, causing the civilian to widen his eyes dramatically at her sudden appearance.

"Well, looks like things are all settled, amirite?" she chirped merrily, clapping her hands together with a bright demeanor. Tanjiro offered a nervous laugh while the man, whose name she hadn't bothered to retain despite hearing it earlier in the day, stared at her in astonishment. "Perhaps you should escort this young lady back to her home before rumors start implicating you in these vanishings," she advised, before seizing a flustered Tanjiro by the back of his haori. "Now come along, Tanji-kun, it's time for some rest."

"But—"

"Oh, by the way, drop by your in-laws' place to deliver this," she added nonchalantly, tossing him an object he barely managed to catch. The sight of it caused his breath to hitch, his emotions welling up.

As he looked up, ready to respond, both figures had already vanished, leaving the bewildered man to gaze at the empty space they once occupied.

"...Was that Taiyo-shin...?"

__________

"Colith-san...?"

"Hmm?"

"Shouldn't we have offered more comfort? I mean, Kazumi-san just lost his fiancée, so..." Tanjiro's voice trailed off uncertainly.

"Ah, that's his name," she hummed thoughtfully. "Nah, no need for that. He'll be fine," she replied casually, prompting Tanjiro to cast a disbelieving look her way.

"How can you be so certain?!"

"I just am. And by the way, great job back there, Tanji! You handled it smoothly!" she praised messing with his scalp.

Tanjiro could only stare in a mix of shock and astonishment.

__________

A disheveled Kazumi hesitantly ventured to his former in-laws' home to deliver the news that the one responsible for their daughter's demise was no longer a threat.

But what awaited him was a stunning surprise: the sound of crying and an otherworldly scene. An unconscious Satoko being cradled in her parents' arms.
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Miraculously, all the victims of the swamp demon reappeared that night, even those who had been missing for years.

__________

"Kaw, kaw! The next destination is Asakusa—"

"No, he needs to rest first."

"Kaw?! But the mission—"

"Not now, it's nap time!"

"Don't I get a say in this?"

"Nope!"

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1ST POV
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Bringing people back to life.

Yeah.

The process wasn't as complex as it might sound when you have the ability to bend reality to your will. In a world where spirits, especially those with unresolved matters, often linger in the realm of the living, the task becomes more manageable than it appears. I just had to essentially establish contact, inquire about their desire to return, and then work my magic if they say yes.

Sure, there are multiple ways to achieve this, but I opted for simplicity: conjuring a new body, infusing it with the respective soul, and there you go. Yes, there are alternative methods, but as mentioned, I chose the straightforward route since it barely affects my stamina.

The spark of this idea ignited a few months back when I visited a village plagued by an unusually high infant mortality rate. The absence of children was starkly noticeable. It didn't take a genius to conclude that a demon was behind this, targeting children aged 0 to 12. The maternal instincts within me surged, fueled by the sight of young spirits trailing after distraught families and aging kin.

Naturally, I took swift action to eliminate the demon. However, I came up against a wall.

Resurrection.

I was already aware that it wasn't beyond my capabilities, given my divine status, but the mere thought of it seemed to solidify the transformation I had undergone – that of a Goddess. A concept that, even now as I reflect on it, evokes a sense of trepidation within me.

Resurrection was the one thing I absolutely refused to meddle with, whether due to my upbringing or... I dunno. Perhaps, a part of me still clung to that image of this awkward little weeb, content to remain in her corner, out of people's way.

I suppose I harbored a fear of losing that part of me, until an unmistakable sensation of gentle tugs on my clothes caught my notice and I looked down.

My mind was made.

Altering people's memories was alarmingly easy, albeit time-consuming – a total of an hour when pooling the efforts of various clones. It wasn't an ability I was fond of, but I'd rather use that than cause people to start a religion on my behalf. I wasn't dealing with a cult and I refuse to partake in this insanity.

Nope.

—And if I caught wind of any rumors concerning a supposed 'Sun God' shrine, I made the conscious choice to mind my fucking business.—

To address the households that had suffered the loss of younger members due to the demon's rampage which lasted over two generations, I resurrected older versions of said members. Still had no clue how it all went unnoticed by the demon slayers corps, then again, the village was remote, to begin with.

At this point, you might be curious about why I haven't revived Tanjiro's family. It's a valid question. While it's true that some spirits have transitioned beyond my reach, having completed the cycle of reincarnation, there is a way to summon them back. It involves invoking their names and knowing what they look like, but yeah, no, I'd rather not. They've embarked on a new chapter in their existence, and I'd prefer not to disrupt their journey.

Was this the case for the Kamados?

Nah.

There were all here, alright. The problem? Because, yes, there was a problem, I just physically couldn't. Last time I tried, my head blew up.

Ight, let me explain, my initial attempt ended up being an epic flop – quite a surprise, to be honest. So I took a stab at other options: [Resurrection potions, various spells] , [Arise] , [Life Return] , [Edo Tensei] , even giving [Tenseiga] a whirl. And you won't believe it, but I even considered going all-out with the freaking [Dragon Balls]. But, well, that seemed to push my limits a tad too far, because the next thing I knew, my head went 'POP!'.

After a round of sincere apologies to an understandably horrified audience, Takeo – bless his quick recovery – pointed out something that hadn't initially caught my attention: the sudden appearance of a piece of paper right after the spectacle. Intrigued, I picked it up and blinked in astonishment.

The moment I made contact with the paper, a chilling shiver ran down my spine, and I didn't need much time to figure out who was behind it.

—Not Yet.—

Short, simple, and straight to the point.

Needless to say, I got the memo loud and clear.

__________

Apart from that blatantly ominous warning, it became evident that resurrecting the Kamado family was not something that would happen anytime soon. Although I'm somewhat bewildered, especially since this encounter essentially marked my first interaction with an entity other than that Dipshit messenger.

Not concerning at all.

Suppressing the nearly overpowering shudder that threatened to seize me, we arrived in Asakusa, the place where shit was about to hit the fan. As anticipated, Tanjiro, the quintessential country bumpkin, appeared completely overwhelmed by the urban chaos, the cacophony of activity, and the medley of scents that instantly bombarded his sensitive nose. Feeling rather benevolent, I steered him towards a certain Udon stand – one I had frequented during my visit to the city last year. Toyo, the bald vendor, a true master of his craft, was behind the counter. I swiftly ordered two bowls, engaging in conversation with the man while Tanjiro took a moment to regain his composure on a nearby bench with Nezuko's box beside him.

The girl had been holed up in there all day, and a quick assessment on my part revealed that she was in the midst of some serious snoozing, as if it were her full-time job. Despite the fact that she no longer required sleep to rejuvenate her energy, she seemed perfectly content to indulge in the act, which honestly, mood.

Now, you might wonder why I wasn't swarmed by a throng of people hot on my heels. After all, I had been journeying alongside Tanjiro all day, passing through villages and towns that were surely by now acquainted with the presence of Taiyo-shin. The reason for this absence of attention is deceptively simple.

I employed a rather basic trick, you see: a [Notice me not] spell. The premise is straightforward– it prompts individuals to disregard my existence. The method proves quite efficient, I must admit. However, individuals with heightened senses can effortlessly detect that there's something off, prompting Uzui to catch on multiple times. That's when I came up with the Anti-Uzui, a countermeasure, heavily inspired by the [Calm calm fruit] or for the purists, [Nagi Nagi no MI] that successfully thwarted his awareness.

Swiftly intercepting the bowl before it could meet an unfortunate end on the ground – truly a crime to know how Tanjiro destroyed perfectly delectable food in canon. Although his behavior could be excused, given the unexpected appearance of his family's murderer, or at least the unmistakable trace of his scent. Without sparing a moment, Tanjiro disappeared, leaving me with two Udon bowls in hand.

"What's gotten into this young lad, racing around as if his life depends on it? He nearly spoiled my masterpiece!" Toyo grumbled.

"Don't hold it against him, he must've had an emergency, he's actually a very sweet kid! " I interjected, placing the bowls on his stand, mine empty.

"Pah! You saved the bowl, that's a feat in itself!" he huffed before breaking into a grin. "Nevertheless, it's a privilege to always have you as my patron!" he exclaimed with a touch of genuine enthusiasm.

Toyo was among those who pledged to safeguard the mystery around Taiyo-shin, stubbornly withholding any details from those who inquired. His unyielding devotion likely stemmed from the fact that I happened to be one of his most valued patrons, because, his food was honestly delicious!

I directed a good natured smile toward him and slipped my mask back in place. By now, Tanjiro must be already confronting Muzan, and his longer locks – a result of my mild persuasion, though he wasn't that difficult to convince – could potentially trigger a more impulsive reaction from the demon even though they were nowhere near the length of Yoriichi's.

Executing the knocking pattern, the door of my box creaked open ajar, revealing six pairs of wide eyes fixated on me inquisitively.

"Looks like our big bad man decided to finally grace us with his presence. Tanji-kun rushed off to confront him. Want to join me in giving him a little scare?" I inquired playfully.

Mini Kokushibo's unblinking gaze met mine before he shook his head in refusal. "No."

Concealing my slight disappointment behind my mask, I replied, "I see. Just wanted to let you know." I noted his grunt of acknowledgement. "I'll leave you here with Nezuko. Feel free to come out if you want. Just remember to use your human form – we wouldn't want a repeat of the Tsurui incident, now would we?" I teased, tone knowing.

Kokushibo responded with a level stare before returning to his training. I couldn't help but chuckle softly. With Toyo's watchful presence, no one would dare attempt thievery right under his nose. The man had an aura that could be downright terrifying when necessary. Offering a gentle pat to both boxes, I swiftly made my way towards the unendingly and distinctly malevolent aura that could only belong to our discount Michael Jackson.

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3RD POV
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He seethed with uncontainable rage. The audacity of this inconsequential insect to lay hands on him! This wretched being dared to adorn those accursed earrings. How dare he evoke this repugnant sensation that lay dormant in his recollections, yet pulsated vividly within every cell of his being. Who had the gall to utter his name with such vehement hatred, venom dripping from every syllable, sending involuntary shudders coursing down his spine?

How. Dare. He—

"Oi! What's your deal, man?! Watch where you're going!" The irate voice sliced through his thoughts, demanding his attention.

He glanced up, his eyes meeting those of three humans – two males and one female. His careless trajectory had led him to collide with the smallest among them. "My apologies," he offered curtly, the intention to resume his path clear in his gaze. However, the smallest of the trio remained unrelenting, seizing his shoulder in an attempt to hold his attention.

His jaw clenched, sensing the unmistakable signs of inebriation emanating from the trio. He wanted nothing to do with such individuals. Just as he was preparing to once again leave, the man's careless remark pierced the air.

"You look like you're half dead or something!"

An icy rage surged within him. How dare this... His fist balled, the urge to erase this contemptible insect from existence surging through him. The momentum of his strike was nearly irreversible, poised to collide with the oblivious fool's face—

"Woah there, calm down buddy!"

Suddenly, a gloved hand appeared, intercepting his clenched fist a hair's breadth from the man's face. Stunned, he remained immobile as he sensed an arm encircle his shoulder, its presence foreign and unexpected. Something didn't quite add up. There was an underlying unease within him, for he hadn't detected the presence of this individual whatsoever. And judging by the reaction of the humans present, it seemed they were just as oblivious to it as he was.

With measured deliberation, he pivoted his head, his gaze locking onto a black Kitsune mask.

"Please excuse my friend over here, he's had a very difficult day! Don't hold it against him, would ya? " the stranger's voice carried an air of friendliness as he spoke. With a genial motion, the mysterious figure flung a pouch towards the man who managed to clumsily catch it, "Consider this a token of apology!"

After examining the pouch's contents, the man – blissfully unaware that he had narrowly escaped death – mumbled his thanks before hastily departing with his companions. The group's departure left him alone with the enigmatic stranger, who took the opportunity to caution them about their drinking habits.

"Can't deny they were quite the rambunctious bunch, right?" The stranger's laughter resonated, punctuated by a good-natured pat on his shoulder. "Sheesh, drunk people can be such a handful at times! Everything intact, I hope?"

He found himself frowning slightly as the stranger initiated an inspection for injuries. Yet, a tempered restraint held him back from acting impulsively. Instead, he raised his hand in a gesture to halt the probing.

"That's not necessary," he asserted, his crimson eyes narrowing marginally before his features eased into a polite smile. "I believe I could have managed without your assistance. Still, your concern is not lost on me. If I may inquire, what brings Taiyo-shin to Asakusa?"

"Ah, you figured it out? Geez, you're one smart cookie aren't ya!" the stranger laughed. Muzan remained unmoved by the act, "Also, can't let Kibutsuji Muzan murder some random civilians out of spite while I'm here—"

With an almost unnatural grace, the masked individual gracefully evaded a strike that would have severed his head from his shoulders before swiftly creating some distance between them.

The demon's lips curled into a snarl, poised to resume his offensive, but his action halted as the stranger's outstretched hand compelled him to pause.

"Hold it! I'm not here to fight!"

"You know of me."

"Well! Hanafuda boy wasn't exactly discreet about it. Everybody and their grandma probably know by now."

"I would strongly suggest you temper your choice of words when addressing me," Muzan retorted, his tone laced with a potent venom that matched his expression.

"Yeah sure whatever. I'm actually here to make a deal with ya." Taiyo-shin said, folding his arms confidently.

A deal? His eyebrow arched with skepticism. "Pray tell, what compels me to indulge in this negotiation? What prevents me from merely erasing you from existence?"

"Getting punched in the dick for example."

His surprise was palpable as he blinked, completely caught off guard. "Excuse me?"

"See, I promised to myself that if I ever see you one day I'd punch you in the dick. Why? 'cause you deserve it," Taiyo-shin huffed offhandedly.

Muzan stared, his astonishment reaching unprecedented levels; never before had anyone dared to voice such audacious words in his presence. Before he could regain his composure, the masked figure went on.

"But anyway, that's just a detail, here's the deal: Don't go after Hanafuda boy, and I won't bother you."

He scoffed, a mixture of disbelief and indignation painting his features. As a glint of cruel amusement crossed his eyes, a touch of condescension played on his lips. "Is that it?" he pondered aloud, a dangerous intensity flashing through his eyes. Veins pulsed menacingly across his face, a visual testament to his simmering hostility. "Pray, enlighten me. What dire consequences shall I face should I opt to decline?" he questioned, his tone laced with derision.

A heavy silence descended, followed by the sound of a weary exhale.

Out of nowhere, an immense weight seemed to clamp down on him, and a jolt of shock rippled through him as he realized, with a growing sense of horror, that his most determined efforts were now futile in the face of paralysis. The masked figure appeared before him, a scene that unfolded in slow-motion as Taiyo-shin's gloved hand coiled menacingly around his throat.

"I shall strip you of everything you hold dear."

Those simple words reverberated through him, a seismic force that shattered his very core. A torrent of pure terror, more intense than any sensation he had ever encountered, seized him as his gaze locked onto the intricate wooden mask. It was akin to the searing touch of the sun clenching around his neck, while an overwhelming sense of dread caused all five brains to trigger an instinctual fight-or-flight response within him.

Just as he was on the brink of descending into a nightmarish abyss, the crushing pressure dissipated, and along with it, Taiyo-shin vanished into thin air.

Muzan's hand shot up to his throat in an instant, his eyes widening in a mix of shock and terror, too overwhelmed to grasp the fact that he once again held complete command over his own movements.

The grip of fear loosened, replaced by an unwavering surge of rage.

__________

"What do we got here?"

"?!" The demon boy standing alongside Tanjiro leaped in surprise, while Tanjiro, who had grown accustomed to such occurrences, merely blinked. "Who—"

"Ah, a new addition to the demon buddy list, huh? Taiyo-shin's the name, but you can call me Lith. Nice to meet ya!"

Yushiro's stared.

"WHAT?!"

__________

[OMAKE]

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"Alright, you better pop out right now, or so help me I'll personally drag you out and give you a piece of my mind! Seriously, I've got no time for this nonsense!" I grumbled, coming to an exasperated halt.

I had embarked on a leisurely stroll, and for the most part of the morning, everything was just peachy. Until, of course, that mysterious tailing sensation decided to rear its pesky head again. First time, I brushed it off, assuming whatever it was had zero nefarious intentions. It wasn't human, nor was it demon, especially since the sun was doing its daytime thing. I figured, no biggie, and continued on my merry way. But lo and behold, it's been a whopping ten days of this charade, and let me tell you, my patience wears thinner than Luffy's attention span.

I pivoted, squinting at the surrounding foliage and waited. Minutes ticked by, feeling like hours, until a semi-transparent figure finally materialized.

My brain promptly stopped.

"..."

"..."

Yoriichi Tsugikuni stared right back at me.

.

.
.

"So you've been following him for four centuries ?"

A nod.

"Huh, that explains it. Must've been quite rough, buddy."

Another nod, albeit solemn.

"So... Wanna talk to him?"

Cue the enthusiastic nodding.

Okay.

.
.
.

"Absolutely not."

"Aw, come on, Koku-kun! The guy's been in your corner for, like, centuries. The least you could do is toss out a 'hello'!"

"I refuse."

"Pretty please? He's your brother, for crying out loud! You gotta show him some basic courtesy, right?"

Kokushibo remained as immovable as a statue. I let out a disapproving click of my tongue, narrowing my eyes.

"Listen, if you keep this up and refuse to say a word to him, I'm cutting off all headpats from my end. And you know I don't joke around when it comes to headpatting."

Never in my life have I seen a man cave in so quickly.

.
.
.

With a contented smile that bordered on serene, Yoriichi departed. Kokushibo observed his departure, a shadow of melancholy flickering in his eyes as he tightly held onto the flute I had repaired a few months back.

"See? That wasn't too hard, was it? Seems like things got smoothed out," I remarked, giving his back a comforting pat. The demon emitted a subtle hum in response.

Though I have no clue what transpired between them, Koku-kun seemed more relaxed these days, as if a burden had been lifted from his shoulders.