Well-Adjusted Barely Traumatized Demon Slayer (Murata SI-ish)

[DeeplyoftheWorld]

A/N: As several characters have aged/don't exist in the original Kimetsu Academy but do in this fic, some positions and roles have been adjusted.

Kibutsuji Muzan, a diet member of Japan's parliament, was an ambitious man and would not hesitate to be ruthless. 'Lawfully' and within reason, of course.

Amateurs broke laws. Professionals bent, twisted, chewed up, and spat out the remnants of legislation.

Staring at his new recruit, he allowed himself to smile. The young man quickly graduated from a good university in Tokyo, and he had a close ear to Ubuyashiki Kagaya.

Sato Murata wanted to be a politician in the future. In terms of starting his career and learning under someone, who was better than Muzan?

In Muzan's mind, it was a trick question, because there was no one more suited than him. Of course he was an obvious choice. However, Murata's connection with Kagaya could be as much a blessing and a curse, so it was best to start small.

"I'll have you acquainted with the others, but for now, I'll have you do odd things here and there. Since you recently graduated, you can go rest in your hometown. Maybe even visit that academy you were once a student in," Muzan ordered.

There was no 'maybe.' Visit the academy, update any intelligence or people of note, and return to report his findings.

At least, that was how Murata viewed it. Muzan didn't do nice for the sake of it. If he offered a suggestion, then it was best to follow through with it.

"Understood, sir. I'll be off, by your leave?" Murata asked.

Crawling in paperwork, Muzan waved him off.

-

Sato Murata, twenty-three years old. He graduated university a year early, and because of his grandfather's influence, desired to work in the government as a parliament member.

Old man Sato was a former governor of a large city, but retired to be a convenience store owner. The change of pace visibly slowed down the graying of his hair, which Murata found telling of the stress with politics.

Sato was a good friend of the previous Ubuyashiki head, and by association, Murata held a good relationship with the current head, Kagaya Ubuyashiki.

They met in Kagaya's mansion, drinking tea and sharing a small meal.

"How was the first meeting? Was it as dreadful as you imagined?" Kagaya teased, enjoying the tired look on Murata's face.

Murata sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I'm more worried about the rumors of his secretary. But, his actual name is Michikatsu, not Kokushibo."

Kagaya smiled. "I figured as such. So, Muzan wants you to visit the school?"

"Yes. He's been complaining about Nakime's rivalry with your wife, and how she's been hitting a roadblock with her influence," Murata explained.

Kagaya laughed and finished his tea. "Well, you can go to the academy whenever you wish. Having a graduate come by is always exciting for the younger students."

"Of course. Also, is Sanemi actually a teacher now?"

Murata didn't believe the news at first. Even more so when the subject involved mathematics.

Sanemi was ruthless with numbers, surprisingly gifted at the subject.

Notoriously, Sanemi proved to be a scary and even more ruthless tutor. Murata had many unforgettable memories of Sanemi when they were students themselves.

"He may seem scary, but he is efficient and dedicated. Makomo is the Japanese teacher as well."

"Oh. That's good to hear."

Another set of memories resurfaced. The good, the bad, and the very good.

"Well, don't forget to rest before you come by. I know you have your own ambitions, but I also want to thank you for fulfilling an old friend's needs."

Murata laughed, giving Kagaya a small hug. "Anything for you, got that? If it helps you and helps me, then I would even work for a demon."

-

Staring at the gates of the academy, Murata exhaled a breath of nostalgia.

Kimetsu Academy was a private organization that held elementary, junior high, and high school levels of education. The school produced several influential graduates, and was only one of several enterprises the Ubuyashiki family owned.

They maintained a wide network in several fields, mostly to slow down Muzan's own goals.

Despite being a private school, it was cheap compared to other schools of its nature. Walking towards the gate, he saw a boy standing guard.

"Hold on, hold on! That's not the official school uniform," Zenitsu said, bringing up his clipboard.

Murata's eye twitched. He was just below the average height for a Japanese man. With his youthful face, even store clerks were hesitant to sell him alcohol.

He brought out his identification. "I'm not a student, just a graduate visiting his old school."

Zentisu apologized and bowed. Murata went on his way.

Unbeknownst to Murata, Zenitsu crushed the pencil on his right hand while the other sent cracks through the clipboard.

Seeing the name on Murata's identification brought back an embarrassing memory.

-

When Gyomei became the homeroom teacher for a different class, Zenitsu was excited.

Rumors spread that the new Japanese instructor was going to be their homeroom teacher.

A woman walked in, her black hair and light blue eyes captivating Zenitsu.

So beautiful!

"Ishikawa Makomo," she introduced herself, writing the name on the chalkboard. "As your homeroom and Japanese teacher, I hope to prepare all of you to the best of my ability. Any questions?"

Hands rose up as students murmured amongst one another. Zenitsu was lost in his own world.

A few weeks later, he professed his admiration of Makomo to the woman herself.

To anyone from the outside looking in, Zenitsu committed to what looked like a love confession. Admiration, for him, went beyond a simple compliment. His heavy handed approach often backfired on him.

Unfortunately for Zenitsu, Sanemi was walking through the hallway within earshot. He immediately gave Zenitsu detention for unprofessional conduct and dragged Makomo away, grumbling along the way.

"If I were Murata, I'd rip the kid's head off."

Makomo smiled, chuckling to herself. "It was just a harmless compliment. Living out their youth is what students should do."

Zenitsu heard all of it with his enhanced hearing. He vowed to never forgive the man who already took away any chance he had.

-

When he took off his shoes and entered the school, Murata saw the principal waiting for him.

"You didn't have to go out of your way to do this," he said.

Amane shook her head. "I have time. What better way to spend it than with a graduate and old friend?"

He had no objections, so they slowly explored the school. While the building itself hasn't changed much in the time he's been gone, there were many more faces than his time. Some familiar people, but most were new.

A dull pain erupted in Murata's back and the offending student apologized for bumping into him.

Murata's eyes widened in recognition. "Tanjiro?"

Rubbing his head, Tanjiro smiled when he opened his eyes. "Ah, Mr. Sato! It's good to see you! Are you going to be a teacher here?"

Tanjiro had fond experiences of the budding politician, remembering the late nights of tutoring.

Murata shook his head. "No, I'm just here to relive some nostalgia. The principal is showing me around."

The school bell rang, causing Tanjiro to freeze in fear. "I'm late for Mr. Shinazugawa's class!"

Murata plopped a hand on Tanjiro's shoulder, preventing him from running.

"I'll walk there with you. You're in luck, since Sanemi won't try to kill me."

Tanjiro cried, his face glowing in appreciation. "Thank you, thank you so much!"

Amane left the two of them, but not before wringing a promise from Murata to visit later. Tanjiro took charge and walked quickly, hurrying despite Murata's lack of concern.

Opening the door, Tanjiro was met with Sanemi's yelling. His voice rumbled like a typhoon.

"Kamado Tanjiro! Detention for being late!"

Murata popped behind him, explaining Tanjiro's tardiness. Sanemi grinded his teeth while coming up with a rebuttal, but ultimately let it go.

"Fine. Next time it happens, I won't tolerate it. Understand?"

Tanjiro fearfully nodded and swiftly took his seat.

"As for you," Sanemi pointed at Murata, "go hang out in the teacher's lounge or something. Get the hell out of my sight."

Mocking a salute, Murata exited and made his way to the lounge, happy to see that Sanemi hadn't changed a bit.

-

Ubuyashiki Kagaya: The head of the Ubuyashiki family. Besides owning Kimetsu Academy, Kagaya maintains holdings in the agricultural, technological, and political landscape. His wide network allows him to help counter Muzan's efforts. Some say he has a third eye for investments.

Ubuyashiki Amane: Wife of Kagaya. She is the principal of Kimetsu Academy. Her calm and serene appearance intimidates some students, but most see her as a respectable and kind woman. Has a strange rivalry with her vice-principal.

Kibutsuji Muzan: A charismatic and devious man who is a diet member of the Japanese parliament. Wants to take over Japan one day. Has a large following, yet many people also dislike him. Children think he looks scary.

Inoue Nakime: Vice-principal of Kimetsu Academy. She is one of Muzan's trusted associates and spies. Performs biwa concerts on her off days, which help raise quite a bit of money. Dislikes Amane.

Kokushibo (real name Michikatsu): Muzan's secretary. Often mistaken for a bodyguard because of his strength. There are rumors that he was once a member of American Special Forces, that he killed a man with a toothpick, and that he robbed the second-largest bank in Russia by impersonating an oligarch.

Sato Murata: A budding young man who wants to be a politician. Childhood friends with Makomo. Good friend of Kagaya since Kagaya's father and Murata's grandfather were friends.

Old man Sato: Murata's nickname for his adoptive grandfather. Technically, they are related, but only on his mother's cousin's side.

Shinazugawa Sanemi: Kimetsu Academy's mathematics teacher. His father died young, so he helps his mother take care of the rest of his siblings. Currently in a relationship with the biology teacher, Kocho Kanae.

Agatsuma Zenitsu: First year high school student of Kimetsu Academy. Lives with his foster parent Juguro. A bit of a shameless person when it comes to love, which disgusts some people. If he acted more natural, maybe the girls would come to see his earnest and honest personality?

Kamado Tanjiro: The oldest child in the Kamado family. Wears the family earrings to honor his father. He also helps in his family's bakery store, waking up at four in the morning to bake bread.

 

[DeeplyoftheWorld]

Coming back from Final Selection, Tanjiro and Takeo were exhausted, tired, and happy.

Nearly two years of training, and they made the first step. It was humbling in a way. Despite all their hard work, their journey only began.

Seeing Urokodaki's home at the horizon, Takeo gained a burst of energy and started running. Tanjiro followed him, and the first person they saw was Nezuko.

Urokodaki and Hanako stood close behind her, but the immediate bone-crushing hug from both brothers had everyone falling to the ground.

Their emotions burst from the seams, and the Kamado siblings cried together. Urokodaki kept his mask on, but his scent of overwhelming happiness did not go unnoticed by Tanjiro.

The brothers cleaned themselves up as Hanako and Urokodaki prepared a large meal for everyone.

"She woke up the day before you both came back," Urokodaki said.

They all sat on the floor, eating their meal with unending appetite. Hanako kept chastising Takeo for his poor manners while Tanjiro's attention was caught by Urokodaki.

"Do you remember when the Ice Hashira spoke about blood demon arts?"

Tanjiro nodded. Takeo's ears perked up in interest.

"I believe Nezuko gets her energy from rest and sleep. But, I wouldn't call it a blood demon art. She is changing herself in a way no demon has ever done."

Urokodaki sighed with all the concern and confusion of a man his age. "Regardless, I truly have hope for you all, and that the answers you're looking for will be found."

Takeo turned to Hanako. "What will you do?"

She answered immediately, as if prepared for his question. "I'm going to the Butterfly Estate to learn more about medicine. If I can't help fight demons or travel with you, then I want to help Nezuko in my own way."

Tanjiro smiled, elated to see his sister pursue something that wouldn't result in death.

Takeo's face scrunched up. "When did you even learn about stuff like that? I thought you were just cooking and cleaning."

Hanako raised her hand and smacked Takeo's arm. Ignoring his grunt of pain, she spoke again. "Urokodaki taught me, thank you very much! I can read and write better than you."

"Hah? No way! What do you think, Tanjiro?" Takeo objected.

He took no sides, only placating his younger siblings by hugging them again. Admittedly, Tanjiro's presence was comforting, so their argument died before it even began.

-

The swordsmith who crafted Takeo's and Tanjiro's swords finally made his way to Urokodaki's house.

Haganezuka Hotaru, an eccentric and overly energic swordsmith, presented the blades.

"See that?" He pointed at Tanjiro's forehead. "A sign like that is a blessing! A child of light, just like the ore that bathes in the light of the sun. Please, take the blade!"

Takeo, miffed at being ignored, immediately grabbed the one in front of him.

His blade turned black.

Tanjiro followed next, holding his sword.

It also turned black.

The house was silent for a moment, then Haganezuka exploded.

"Where is the red? The bright red blade? Why is it just a sad shade of black?" He grabbed Tanjiro, shaking him back and forth, accusing him like a criminal.

Haganezuka cried to himself. "What's wrong with you? What happened?"

Takeo's expression turned stony and he pushed the middle-aged man away from his brother. They stiffly thanked him.

Haganezuka left with a huff, the chimes on his hat becoming softer as he walked away.

"Are all swordsmiths that insufferable?" Takeo asked Urokodaki.

His mask bobbed side to side, hiding a grin. "No. Hotaru has always been one of the oddest swordsmiths I've met. Sabito nearly beat him to a pulp once."

As Takeo and Tanjiro prepared to leave, Urokodaki presented them a wooden box.

Fitting on Tanjiro's back comfortably, they watched as Nezuko shrunk herself to fit in the box.

"The material is of a special wood that's extremely durable and light. As long as your sister hides in it, she can travel during the day safely."

Thanking Urokodaki, the brothers stepped out, hugging a tearful Hanako, and starting their first journey as demon slayers.

-

Their first demon, which Takeo aptly called the 'swamp demon,' was defeated with less effort than anticipated.

First, its appearance surprised Tanjiro. Coming underneath the ground to ambush him, Tanjiro swiftly pushed away the boy who accompanied him, and unleashed an attack.

Hinokami Kagura: Dance

The downward slash burned the demon. He screamed in pain, and two more versions of himself spawned from the ground, set on killing Tanjiro. The rage-induced concentration made them sloppy, and worse, caused their demise.

Hinokami Kagura: Clear Blue Sky

Takeo performed his own ambush and sliced the demon's neck off.

Breathing heavily, he walked slowly to Tanjiro. Nezuko, already out of her box, came over to pet Takeo.

"Stop that!" Takeo dodged like a cat.

Confirming the demon's death, they immediately set out for their next mission.

The Asakusa area within Tokyo was highly urbanized and modern. A drastic change of pace from their old village, the atmosphere overwhelmed them. With the night illuminated by the lights of the city, Nezuko stood next to them, dozing as she walked.

Walking around the streets of the city, Tanjiro and Takeo absorbed everything around them. A boy and his box-wearing brother would normally be a odd sight, but the bustling of the city paid them no mind.

Finding a spot next to an empty udon stand to calm down and relax, Takeo couldn't help but be amazed.

"The city's amazing! It's so bright!" He said, desiring to experience more.

Tanjiro wanted to agree, but held himself back. They had a mission to do, but the crows gave them very little information to work with.

In that moment, he nearly choked in disgust. Covering his mouth and nose, Tanjiro swayed. With Takeo's help he slowly stood up. Tanjiro began walking, then he started to run, trying to find the vile scent. It bore the same resemblance as when his family was killed.

The man responsible for their family's tragedy was undoubtably here.

Takeo, seeing his brother so intently focused, chased after Tanjiro and concentrated on the people around him. Some were in a rush, some were idle, and one man had piercing red slits for eyes. They locked eyes and Takeo instinctively gulped in fear and anger.

Tanjiro, sensing the rush of fear in his brother, saw the man his brother was looking towards.

Wearing a western suit and hat, the man's eyes gazed upon them. He carried a young girl in his arms.

In a flash, several things happened.

Tanjiro and Takeo sprinted towards him, ignoring the looks they received. The man turned back and kept walking, but not before scratching and injecting a person's neck with drops of his blood. The victim collapsed and convulsed in agony, causing a panic among the crowd. The victim bit the neck of the nearby woman, and she shrieked.

Takeo jumped towards the newly turned demon and held him at bay while Tanjiro bandaged the woman's wounds.

Tanjiro screamed to the sky, promising to hunt Muzan and personally cut off his head.

The police started to arrive, but not before Tamayo approached and raked her arm, setting off a flowery illusion around them. Without speaking a word, Tamayo and Yushiro helped the brothers and the demon get away.

Tanjiro and Takeo returned to the empty udon stand, taking Nezuko with them. They saw Yushiro waiting for them, and they followed him.

"You waited for us?" Takeo asked, his hand resting on his sheath.

Yushiro scoffed, barely able to tolerate their presence. "I was instructed by my lady to wait for you, but it's best to hurry and get to the house as soon as possible."

He muttered to himself, expressing his personal grievances. "I can't believe that guy told the truth. Though, the girl is an eyesore."

They both heard the demon's words.

Tanjiro remained confused. Who was the eyesore? His beautiful, kind sister?

Takeo snarled, punching Yushiro in the face. The demon glared, ready to teach Takeo a lesson, but he took a deep breathe.

This was all for the sake of Lady Tamayo.

Arriving inside the safehouse, the Kamado siblings introduced themselves. Tamayo, sitting next to a bed, tended to her patient. The patient was the same woman that Takeo bandaged, and she slept on the bed, breathing steadily.

"She is fine," Tamayo said. "Unfortunately, I had to lock her husband in the underground cell."

"Shouldn't it be impossible for you to resist human blood?" Takeo bluntly asked.

Tanjiro apologized as he tugged on Takeo's ears, prompting a yelp from the younger brother.

"First, I should introduce myself," she said, forcing everyone to a different room. "I am Tamayo, and the man who guided you is Yushiro. As for your question, I've altered my body greatly, and even removed Muzan's curse. Because of that, both Yushiro and I do not feed on humans and only require blood."

Tanjiro nodded, accepting the explanation. Their scent, even with his enhanced smell, was more subtle than a normal demon's scent. If he passed by them at a busy street, he wouldn't be able to recognize their scent immediately.

Opening the box, Nezuko sprawled herself on the ground. Takeo berated Nezuko for laying around disrespectfully.

Tamayo smiled before continuing. "While we get by with blood, Yushiro requires even less than I do. It was after many years that I was able to turn Yushiro into a demon."

That grabbed the brother's attention.

"I thought only Muzan could turn others into demons?" Tanjiro asked.

She nodded. "That is essentially true, and it is his blood that carries the curse and ability to turn others into demons. Yushiro is the only person I've been able to turn into a demon after centuries."

Takeo's eyes bulged. "How old are you?"

Yushiro punched Takeo in the stomach, relishing the pain on the boy's face. "Do not be so crude to ask a lady her age."

"Do that again, Yushiro, and I will make you regret it," Tamayo frowned.

He straightened up, embodying the image of a well-behaved boy.

"I'll be clear. I do not intend to make more demons, and it is only if I have no other choice to save a person's life that I ask if they wish to be a demon. Otherwise, I will not do it."

Tanjiro understood, and he sensed no deceit or manipulation on her part. Tamayo radiated a type of wisdom singed with sorrow.

"Do you know if there is a way to restore someone's humanity after becoming a demon?"

Tamayo thought for a few moments, then she nodded again.

Eager to know more, Tanjiro got closer, desperate for the answer. Yushiro moved to throw him, but Takeo wrestled with him, causing the two of them to roll around, neither gaining an advantage over the other.

Tamayo stared at Yushiro with disappointment. "Yushiro, I told you, didn't I?"

Shoving Takeo off, he returned to his previous position, sitting properly.

Facing Tanjiro, she spoke again. "No matter the illness or ailment, there is always a cure or treatment for it. However, at this point, I do not have a way to reverse the transformation. To that end, I will need your help."

Takeo sat up, his hands trembling from excitement. "We'll do anything!"

Raising a finger, she listed her first request. "I will need to study your sister's blood. As I understand, she has not consumed the flesh or blood of a human. Demons that do not feed themselves unquestionably go berserk after a certain point. This condition of hers is a rarity comparable to a miracle. In studying her blood, I believe I'll get closer to a cure."

She sighed. "My second request is already being fulfilled at this point, but it never hurts to have more samples. I need blood from strong demons. A stronger demon has more of Muzan's blood, making it invaluable to research, but I understand it is not an easy task to complete."

Both brothers readily agreed without hesitation.

"Someone else is also helping you?" Takeo asked, noticing Tamayo's phrasing of her second request.

She laughed lightly as if someone told her a joke. "Yes, and he was originally the one who mentioned your sister. We have not had many opportunities to meet again, but we exchange letters."

Takeo racked his brain. There were only so many people that knew about Nezuko.

"Was it Murata?" Tanjiro asked.

"The very same," Tamayo confirmed. "It is because of him that I decided to invite you inside, if only to confirm his words."

Pulling out a few needles, she handed some to both Takeo and Tanjiro. "Collect the blood with these, and our cat, Chachamaru, will deliver it to us."

Pocketing the materials, Takeo looked towards his brother "Simple enough. Right, Tanjiro?"

Tanjiro and Yushiro moved in tandem. Tanjiro pushed Takeo and Nezuko away as Yushiro grabbed Tamayo.

The house violently collapsed in a mess of wood and debris.

 

[DeeplyoftheWorld]

With urgency in his steps, Murata followed his crow to the borders of the city.

He did not anticipate this change. Focusing on his running, he stopped from overthinking. It did not do good to dwell on things that already happened.

Surrounded by the thick forest and trees, he made his way to the meeting spot. Taking in a deep breath, he paused, silently waiting.

From the clearing, Tamayo and two other people came out.

Her tight expression and tattered kimono showed signs of desperate escape. The two people beside her fared no better. The man was breathing heavily from carrying the woman, and while the woman did not look tired, her constant trembling was easily noticeable.

"What happened?" Murata hurriedly spread out his supplies, tending to their immediate needs.

Tamayo fell to the ground, her voice broken. "Muzan's dog found us. Yushiro stayed behind while we fled."

"Muzan's dog?" Murata asked, already expecting the answer. Surely, Akaza was sent to capture them.

"Kokushibo," she spat the name with venom.

Murata's brows furrowed in confusion. Evidently, Tamayo had history with Kokushibo. But, even more puzzling, Muzan sent Kokushibo for a task like this?

Why now?

"How powerful is he?" He asked while feigning ignorance. The only information Murata had about Kokushibo were on the pages of a book that didn't exist. To actually meet the man and observe his strength meant certain death.

Clumping the dirt with her hands, the veins in her hands pulsed with anger. "Upper Moon One."

Helping Tamayo up, Murata carried her. Keizan, likewise, carried his wife, and they began running further away from the city. Murata's crow led the way, pointing them towards the Ice Estate.

"How did you escape?"

-

While the ambush on Tamayo and the Kamado siblings ended with no casualties, Yushiro and Tamayo knew it was time to move to a different safehouse.

The brothers and their demon sister left, vowing to help Tamayo in her research. They were well-meaning boys, and it warmed her heart.

Having lived for several centuries, Tamayo procured several houses and hideouts.

After relocating, Tamayo tried to make a breakthrough. While she could not cure the newly turned demon from Asakusa, the blood samples Murata gave her were put to good use, and she was able to break the man out of Muzan's control.

It was much faster than the process she used to turn Yushiro into a demon, which meant that with more of Muzan's blood, she could find additional weaknesses and solutions.

Nakashima Keizan thanked her with all his heart, his wife beside him in a kneeling position. They offered to help her in anything, and while Keizan's wife was a normal human, she offered her assistance regardless.

Nakashima Yukiko was a quick learner, and adapted to her new life quickly.

Just like Yushiro, Keizan did not require very much blood. Even so, his blood demon art started developing at a good pace, and progress was being noted by Yushiro.

"He has a blood demon art suited for battle," Yushiro grumbled.

Holding one of the flesh seeds in his hand, Yushiro threw it in the air and watched as it exploded and transformed into a large spike. He pocketed several more of the flesh seeds, hoping to test its limits further.

Taking notes, Tamayo observed its effects. "Fascinating. The spikes can be used to restrict movement and mobility."

She went to take more notes. Then, without warning, Yushiro collapsed, his face flushed with sweat. Tamayo went over to check on him, but he pushed her away.

The urgency in his voice startled her. "Lady Tamayo, you must leave now!"

"Yushiro, what's wrong?"

He gritted his teeth, and his hands bled. "Just leave! The illusion is breaking!"

Applying his talismans to Tamayo and the couple beside her, he rushed out of the house, scouring for the threat.

With the night still young, Yushiro narrowed his eyes. In front of him was a demon with six eyes and a sword by his hips.

He radiated the aura of a monster. Yushiro's chest began to ache and his hands trembled.

Upper Moon One

"An illusionary blood demon art?" Kokushibo observed and remarked to himself. "It's potent. Even with my eyes, I cannot see through it easily."

Hiding several of the flesh seeds within his hands, Yushiro worked to stall as much as possible.

He rid himself of any pretense of escaping. As long as Lady Tamayo and the others fled, that would be enough for him.

He mentally apologized before steeling his expression.

"Who are you, and why have you come?" Yushiro adjusted himself, masking his fear and preparing his posture.

Kokushibo stood still, confusion tainting his expression. "You do not know me?"

Truthfully, he felt slighted. He was Upper Moon One. Even new demons were vaguely aware of the hierarchy.

"Not a clue, dumbass!"

Kokushibo did not react to the insult. "You hide your fear well, demon."

Unsheathing his sword, he introduced himself. "Very well. I am Kokushibo. His Lordship has sent me to investigate and capture the traitor Tamayo. Yet, I see only you. Is that merely your blood demon art or has she already escaped?"

"Like hell I would tell you!" Yushiro slapped a talisman on himself, hiding his presence. Next, he threw the flesh seeds into the air as they exploded.

With a practiced swing, Kokushibo let out a breath.

Moon Breathing, First Form: Dark Moon, Evening Palace

In a single strike, several crescent moons were released, instantly destroying the protruding spikes before they could hit Kokushibo. Concentrating on his surroundings, he struck out his left arm, the hand coming in contact with flesh.

A choked sound ensued and the talisman on Yushiro broke, which revealed him. Kokushibo's grip on Yushiro's neck tightened.

Focusing his eyes, Kokushibo peered into Yushiro's biology.

"Abomination of Tamayo," he stated. "I will take you to His Lordship himself. Pray that he will find a use for you."

Sensing a lack of demonic presence in the area, Kokushibo walked away as he held Yushiro tightly. He could search for Tamayo later. For now, His Lordship had just received a new experiment to focus on.

-

Days of traveling later, Murata and the others arrived at the Ice Estate. He sent a message in advance to pause all visits or sparring sessions.

The official reason was for renovation. In truth, Murata already prepared a separate area of the estate for Tamayo and her research. Originally, this was so Murata could help ease the demon doctor's assimilation into the Demon Slayer Crops, rather than being thrown straight into the Butterfly Estate.

Granted, he wanted the transfer to be done at least a year ago after the first meeting with Tamayo and Yushiro. At least now, he could put it to good use.

In his personal opinion, it was a bit useless now.

Murata wanted to inform Kanae of the situation and have Tamayo immediately working in the Butterfly Estate. Unfortunately, the master told him to wait. While frustrating, Murata would not disturb the master's order.

The pieces are coming together. Once Nezuko is known, then the rest can fall into place.

Putting away the letter, Murata sighed. The Ubuyashiki premonition made no sense.

-

On the second floor of the manor, a large room was altered into a makeshift laboratory. Tamayo, alongside her assistants, were conducting further research.

It was a good distraction from the loss of Yushiro. She would not want to admit it out loud, but his presence was a bright light compared to the dimness of her past.

The fact that she was able to help someone as a demon filled her with hope. Unfortunately, she could only pray that Yushiro would be strong enough to resist and sabotage any of Muzan's goals.

She knew the man. If only to satisfy his childishness, Muzan would torment and dissect Yushiro rather than employ him for any mission.

Muzan's paranoia was well known to Tamayo, and she was aware of how often it backfired on him.

She could write an entire book about it. With their history, there were many things to tell.

She sardonically laughed out loud.

"Is something wrong?" Yukiko asked.

Tamayo kept any snappish remark to herself. "Nothing wrong. However, we will need to continue testing your husband's blood demon art."

"Of course," Yukiko nodded. "I'll go get him from the courtyard."

-

Keizan, meanwhile, stared at the stars as he regained his stamina. He had just spared with the Ice Hashira and lost more times than he wanted to admit.

Apparently, Murata was only average amongst the hashira. Though, Keizan would have to meet the others for himself before he believed Murata's words.

While his regeneration was slow compared to other demons and his physical strength left a lot to be desired, his blood demon art held potential.

Murata complimented it. "Against a demon slayer, your ability is is useful. A good trap or a well thrown seed could permanently disable someone. Then, it would be an easy feast."

Keizan shuddered. "Please don't describe it that way."

"Fair enough. Take it from me though. Against even a demon, your skill would be troublesome and something to watch out for," Murata said.

Nobu flew from the north, the crow's voice laced with alarm.

"Retired! Retired!"

Plucking the letter from his crow, Murata cursed.

"What happened?" Keizan asked.

Murata crushed the letter in his hand.

Sound Hashira, Uzui Tengen, retired, due to loss of limb from Upper Moon Four!

Wind Hashira, Shinazugawa Sanemi, in serious condition, recuperating in the Butterfly Estate!

 

[DeeplyoftheWorld]

Sanemi and Tengen were a duo that most people didn't expect.

Of course, as equals and peers, they were respectful to each other and willing to get the mission done. But beyond that, they had no deeper relationship.

The ironic thing in the Demon Slayer Corps was that despite the shared camaraderie in fighting demons, a meaningful friendship was difficult to maintain.

With high attrition rates and team missions being based on several factors, it was easy to feel alone. Depending on one's luck, a person could find themselves completing solo missions for years at a time, if they survived that long.

The hashira fared better with those issues, but since their ability were leaps and bounds above the average demon slayer, they were relegated to solo missions, barring extremely rare cases.

The current mission fell into the rare category. This situation was a special request put by both Tengen and Sanemi that the master reluctantly approved.

As a result, they spent most of their time together investigating a certain demon.

They trained together. They ate together. They worked together.

In the past year, Tengen had spent more time with Sanemi than with his wives. A fact that he often lamented privately.

Sanemi could not care less. Though, he did wish to be in the company of Kanae rather than the Sound Hashira.

Over time, they developed a bond deeper than friendship, but not so intimate as romance.

Regardless of their personalities, Wind Breathing and Sound Breathing mixed well. With Sanemi's tricks and Tengen's unorthodox ways, fighting together became more and more natural.

Unfortunately, while their teamwork improved, Sanemi's lack of patience hindered their investigations. In addition, Tengen's information network was devoid of his wives, which further slowed down progress. He did not want to risk their lives against someone like his father.

Finding themselves in a lull, Sanemi complained.

"At this rate, we'll never find the bastard," downing his drink, Sanemi ordered another.

Tengen scoffed. "Calm down, you brute. I have a good feeling about the next place."

-

Tengen's village was a hidden and old secret. They were not the only family of ninja in the history of Japan, but in the Taisho era, they were one of the few remaining.

The village was empty, with a seemingly unnatural mist clouding the area. Tengen remembered brighter days, with children running around and old people walking peacefully.

Well, as peacefully as retired spies and assassins did.

Strangely, other clans of ninja were possessed by a fervor similar to his father. Not only did the decline of their profession cause a panic, but the sudden change in lifestyle proved harsh for many of the people, and most abandoned the path or died while training.

Shaking his head, Tengen stuffed his old memories away as he observed the buildings.

Old blood stains covered some of the wooden structures. It appeared as though a massacre swept the area. If his father became a demon, then the first place he destroyed was likely the village.

There was no need to continue the bloodline if one was immortal. They were the bloodline.

Tengen muttered to himself. "I don't know why I waited so long to come back."

"Because I bet it brings back shitty memories." Sanemi said, seeing Tengen's tight expression. Sanemi wouldn't want to come back to his own village either, after everything that's happened.

Preparing a running start, Tengen waved him off. "It matters not! Let's continue."

Sprinting into the distance, Sanemi followed.

-

"Why are there so many damn stairs to your home?"

Grumbling to the top, the two hashira stopped in front of the gate.

"The first head of our clan wanted our estate to be the highest in the village. It also helps with training," Tengen explained. Their crows flew above them, scouting for anything suspicious.

"That's strange. It's locked." Tugging at the chain and its lock, Tengen began lockpicking.

"Step aside," Sanemi commanded, bringing out his sword.

Tengen half-heartedly chopped Sanemi's head. "Idiot! This is still my ancestral home! You want my family's spirits to haunt you?"

With a light glare, Sanemi mumbled to himself.

Finessing the lock and throwing out the chain, Tengen opened the gates to his family home.

When they entered, the gate closed behind them.

Standing in the middle of the yard, they saw a figure sitting right before the entry to the manor itself.

A man that looked like Tengen stared at them.

Upper Moon Four

"If it isn't my son and his rabid monkey," Tetsuji said dispassionately, as if he were discussing the weather.

"Did you decide to kill the rest of our family and village before or after you became a demon?" Tengen asked. His face was engraved with unrelenting focus and a burning fire danced in his eyes.

"Does it matter?" Tetsuji lazily said. "I killed them as I pleased. Good timing as well. Once I got rid of your brother, there was no one else left to inherit the Uzui name."

Tengen shook, his blades already unsheathed in his hands. "I pray you find torment in hell. There are no words to describe your cruelty."

Sound Breathing, First Form: Roar

Jumping towards his father, Tengen brought down his blades. Tetsuji blocked, already ripping an arm to create his blood weapons.

Wind Breathing, First Form: Dust Whirlwind Cutter

Sanemi closed the distance, unleashing his own attack to cover Tengen's blind spots.

The area groaned from the ensuing collision. Trading blows, Tengen and Sanemi clashed with Tetsuji. Covering each other whenever a weapon flew towards them, both hashira maintained their momentum.

Suddenly, Tetsuji kicked Tengen harshly.

Crashing through the gate, Tengen kept falling farther and farther. Seeing his father charging straight at him, Tengen's eyes widened.

Pulling out a bomb, he let it explode as it propelled him down to the village. Throwing out several more, he swung his weapons together to disorient Tetsuji.

Wind Breathing, Sixth Form: Black Wind Mountain Mist

Sanemi chased down the two as he unleashed another attack.

Regrouping, Tengen and Sanemi fought side by side, putting the pressure on Upper Moon Four.

Frustrated with his lack of progress, Tetsuji exploded both his arms. He quickly regenerated but the pools of blood turned into a pinprick of needles.

Nicked by several needles, Tengen immediately noticed the effects.

"It seems not even my most talented son is immune to the poison," Tetsuji said, picking up on the slight hesitation in Tengen's expression.

Tengen laughed heartily, his amusement echoing in the quiet village. "Dumbass! You think this stuff works on me? Tut-tut, I'm disappointed in you, father."

"Don't bother hiding it. I can sense it."

Wind Breathing, Second Form: Claws Purifying Wind

"Sense this, bastard!"

Tetsuji dodged the attack. With a counterattack, he slashed Sanemi's arm.

The rich marechi blood wafted in the air, causing Tetsuji's eyes to narrow and his pulse to quicken.

Flushed with heat and excitement, Tetsuji stared back at Sanemi.

"You...are marechi?" Laughing to himself, he started clawing at his arms. "What a beautiful night!"

Sound Breathing, Second Form: Flashing Chains

Tengen mounted another strike at his father. Busy with Sanemi's advance, Tetsuji found himself on the defensive again, his neck coming into contact with Tengen's blade.

Turning his foot into a curved axe, he kicked upwards, attempting to impale Tengen.

Tengen retreated, allowing the demon's neck wound to heal back up. Sanemi sliced again, but Tetsuji parried and summoned several more weapons.

With both hashira able to keep up, the battle began turning into a temporary standstill. Tetsuji could kill them given enough time, and it was only a matter of time. Tengen and Sanemi slowed slightly, the collective wounds beginning to pile up.

Tengen racked his mind for another idea. It didn't look good, and if one of them let down their guard for even a moment, the demon would capitalize on it.

The battle continued, Tengen throwing out whatever he had on hand, and Sanemi going for cheap shots when able. Their speed steadily slowed and their stamina waned. Tetsuji's endurance, on the other hand, was commendable but the drunken feeling and the constant barrage of attacks made him sloppy.

Coming up with a last ditch effort to end the battle, Tengen rushed again.

Seeing the nonverbal sign, Sanemi kept engaging the demon, keeping him distracted.

Sound Breathing, Third Form: Spinning Flashing Rumble

With speed that made him look like a whirling drill, Tengen aimed straight for his father's chest, impaling him.

Wind Breathing, Eighth Form: Primary Gale Slash

Digging into the shoulder towards the neck, Sanemi poured his strength into his sword.

Tetsuji found himself in a rare moment of dread.

-

It was not long after Tengen left that Tetsuji found himself in a bind.

Tengen's younger brother was learning well and adopted the mannerisms and tactics as his father. Unfortunately, he did not possess as much latent potential as Tengen.

Tetsuji could sense the potential of each of his children. It was an instinctual skill, and while Tengen claimed to have no talent, his hard work and potential saw him reaching heights no other child could.

In a fit of rage unlike him, Tetsuji murdered his last son.

Tetsuji's last surviving wife committed suicide shortly after, and for the first time in his life, he shambled mindlessly, lost in purpose and meaning.

After six centuries, this was what the Uzui bloodline amounted to?

It made him want to hunt down Tengen himself.

During a dark night, Tetsuji found himself approached by a horrifying being. The man pricked himself with his blade, collecting a small pool of blood in his hand.

"Bloodline?" Kokushibo thought for a moment, sheathing his sword while giving the blood to Tetsuji.

"If His Lordship is willing, then becoming a demon is the answer. Only then will your concerns of lineage and bloodline disappear. As a demon, you can continue honing your skills for centuries."

With a clear solution to his problems, Tetsuji drank the blood greedily. He convulsed and writhed in pain, the transformation into a demon taking over a day.

For once in his life, Tetsuji felt enlightenment. He suddenly understood why the monks went to torturous efforts to find such clarity.

In Tetsuji's mind, this sense of clarity was only possible by becoming a demon.

He would never regret it.

-

"I will not lose! To be bested by children!"

Roaring desperately, Tetsuji detonated his body, leaving only the head and bits of the torso intact.

The blood turned sharp, scratching Tengen and Sanemi. A perfect representation of a death by a thousand cuts.

Regenerating his arm only to turn it into a blade, he cut off Tengen's leg, causing the demon slayer to cry out and lose balance. Tengen made to grab something, then he fell and collapsed in pain.

Running away, Tetsuji fled as the first signs of dawn advanced.

Sanemi, initially torn between chasing the demon or helping Tengen, immediately rushed back to Tengen, trying to stop the bleeding.

"You'll be fine, damn it! Just stay alive! Stem the flow!"

Tengen kept his eyes opened, but his consciousness waned. Despite his closeness to death, he smiled triumphantly. "Don't...worry. I got...something."

Sanemi kept cursing. "Stop speaking nonsense, and focus on your breath!"

The kakushi arrived, herded by Tengen's crow as they assessed casualty damage.

-

Leaving the medical ward, Murata walked into a room prohibited by most people.

Kanae was inside, peering into journals and working on a medical experiment.

"Ah, Murata, it's good to see you! Did you talk to Sanemi?" She asked, a cheer in her step.

"I did, but since Tengen's at his estate, I couldn't ask for his side of the story. Did he tell you anything?"

She hummed, then nodded, a manic gleam appearing in her eye.

"Yes, but even better, he retrieved samples of his father's poison. With a cure in sight, Sanemi will be ready in no time!"

Murata raised his brow, delighted but wary by Kanae's excitement.

"I'll be able to get back into my duties as well," Kanae remarked. "This Flower Hashira is blooming once again!"

Murata nodded. Now he understood.

Bidding her a farewell, he left, writing a letter to Tamayo.