In a 'kokushibo meets tanjiro fanfiction', one possibility is that Kokushibo senses something different about Tanjiro right away. Maybe it's the fact that Tanjiro has a unique scent or an energy that Kokushibo has never encountered before. Tanjiro, being Tanjiro, would be ready to face Kokushibo head - on, but also be open to communication if there's a chance. The story could explore their different views on the world of demons and slayers, and how they might come to understand each other better through their encounter.
For Tanjiro, he could become more understanding of the complex nature of demons. Meeting Kokushibo, a powerful and complex demon, might make him realize that not all demons are simply evil. Kokushibo, on the other hand, could start to have some doubts about his loyalty to Muzan. Tanjiro's tenacity and belief in the good of all might start to chip away at Kokushibo's cold - hearted exterior.
Tanjiro might use his sense of smell to detect hidden threats. Since his sense of smell is super - enhanced, he could sniff out any demons or traps in the way of saving Rengoku. For example, if there are demons disguised as allies, Tanjiro would be able to tell by their scent.