“Oyakata-sama, your tea.” I offered the warm cup, watching his smile deepen as he accepted it. He then gestured for me to sit beside him. “Are you sure?” I asked, unsure why he’d requested my company. “Yes, I am completely certain.” His calm tone reassured me, and I settled onto the cushion beside him.
Minutes passed in comfortable silence. Finally, I decided to break it. “What’s on your mind, Master?” I asked softly. He continued sipping his tea before answering. “A lot, (Y/N). Mostly Muzan.”
It wasn’t surprising. Muzan was the source of so much suffering, stealing away those Master cared for. The demon was not only powerful, but cruel and utterly devoid of compassion, consuming humans solely for power. The thought was sickening.
My internal monologue was interrupted as he spoke again. “I consider everyone here, in the Demon Slayer Corps, children. Regardless of age.” I offered a small smile and a soft “hm.” “But you are special, (Y/N).” My eyes widened, and I instinctively turned to him. He felt my gaze and continued, “I miss your laugh. And your smile. Your bright, wide eyes. I wish I could still see them.” He spoke with a wistful sadness.
I chuckled softly and rose to my feet. He followed my movements with his eyes. “Why did you stand?” he asked, his voice gentle.
I took the cup from his hands and placed it on a nearby table. Then, I reached for both of his hands, gently guiding him to stand as well. “Just a moment.” I released his hands and returned to the table. I retrieved a music box from the shelf, placing it carefully on the surface. I turned the key, and a delicate melody filled the room. I walked back to Master.
He looked surprised, a flicker of confusion in his eyes. I chuckled again. “Remember when we used to dance?” A smile returned to his face, and he placed his hands on my waist. “To brighten up the mood,” he finished my sentence.
I looped my arms around his neck. Our movements began to synchronize as we danced, lost in the quiet rhythm of the evening. I rested my head on his chest, listening to the steady beat of his heart. “We used to be so close,” I murmured. “Those were good times.”
“But you know it’s dangerous for us to be in a relationship right now,” he stated softly.
I hummed in response, my fingers tightening around his shoulders. “Because of the demons?” I asked. He stopped, his gaze locking with mine. It felt as if he was peering into my soul. “Until we defeat Muzan, we cannot allow ourselves to be distracted by our feelings.” His smile faded, replaced by a determined expression.
I looked down, waiting for him to continue. “But don’t worry. The chosen one has finally arrived. It will all be over soon.” He hugged me tightly. “The chosen one?” I questioned, my voice laced with confusion. “Tanjiro. He will be the one to defeat Muzan. It is crystal clear.” He whispered, his voice calm and resolute.
I smiled, returning his embrace. “I’m glad.” We remained in silence for a few minutes, until a crow crashed through the window. “Ouch!” I exclaimed. “Are you alright, Oyakata-sama?”
“I’m fine, don’t worry.” I smiled and turned to face the crow. “A new mission, I see.” I looked back at Master, a determined smile forming on my lips. “It’s time to slay some demons, haha.” I chuckled. “Good luck.”