Chapitre 36: Chapter 36: Cooperation
After both parties introduced themselves, the atmosphere in the room became more harmonious.
Tamayo began to share details of her research with Aoki, discussing various experiments she had conducted since becoming a demon. Aoki reciprocated by detailing his recent encounters and battles with demons, including his strategies and newfound abilities.
Suddenly, Tamayo's beautiful face showed a hint of hesitation. "Mr. Aoki, you are now, um…"
Aoki looked at her expression and quickly caught on. "Miss Tamayo, are you asking about cannibalism?"
Tamayo pursed her lips, her demeanor intellectual and gentle. "After I became a demon, I fell into despair for a while and consumed many humans. However, through transformations of my body, I not only escaped Muzan Kibutsuji's control but also no longer need to consume humans. Now, I survive by drinking only a small amount of human blood."
Yushiro nodded in agreement, adding, "I require even less blood than Tamayo."
"If you're willing, Mr. Aoki, I could try to help you…" Tamayo offered tentatively.
Aoki interrupted her, his voice firm. "I don't consume humans."
Tamayo looked surprised. "You mean you have no desire for human flesh and blood?"
"Yes," Aoki affirmed. "I've never consumed humans and have no need to."
Tamayo appeared intrigued. "Mr. Aoki, does that mean you lack the typical urges of a demon?"
"That's correct," Aoki nodded. "Instead, I consume demons for sustenance."
"Consume demons?" Even Yushiro, who had been listening quietly, now looked up with keen interest.
"Don't believe it? Would you like to see for yourself?" Aoki extended his palm, activating his "Demon Devouring" ability towards Yushiro.
Yushiro frowned and dodged his palm, feeling uncomfortable as it neared him.
"You're quite sensitive!" Aoki remarked, impressed.
Yushiro, however, didn't appreciate the compliment.
Tamayo pondered for a moment. "Is this your Blood Demon Art?"
"Something like that," Aoki replied vaguely, deciding it best not to divulge too much about the system.
Tamayo didn't press further but chuckled softly. "Mr. Aoki, with this ability, you could become a significant threat to Muzan Kibutsuji."
"He's already taken notice," Aoki revealed. "Just a few days ago, I eliminated Lower Moon Five. Interestingly, his experiences mirrored Muzan Kibutsuji's, so Muzan has taken special interest in him. I imagine Muzan Kibutsuji must be quite furious right now."
Tamayo and Aoki exchanged knowing glances, sharing a silent moment of satisfaction. The more agitated Muzan Kibutsuji became, the happier they felt.
Yushiro clenched his teeth, visibly uncomfortable with their shared amusement.
Aoki's expression turned serious. "Ms. Tamayo, I hope we can forge an alliance and aid each other in dealing with Muzan Kibutsuji."
"I couldn't ask for more," Tamayo replied earnestly. "It's a shame we can't contact the Demon Slayer Corps. If we could unite with them, our chances of defeating Muzan Kibutsuji would greatly increase."
Aoki remained silent.
The current Demon Slayer Corps, especially the Hashira, harbored intense animosity towards demons. In the original series, Tamayo and Yushiro had cooperated with the Demon Slayer Corps due to Nezuko's precedent and under dire circumstances, setting aside their differences. However, the present situation wasn't conducive to such cooperation.
Aoki had no intention of chasing after cold receptions. He saw no reason to engage with the Demon Slayer Corps.
"Ms. Tamayo, I understand you are skilled in medicine," Aoki said, steering the conversation. "I hope you can develop a drug capable of inhibiting Muzan Kibutsuji's ability to regenerate and escape."
This was the primary goal behind Aoki seeking out Tamayo. The greatest challenge in defeating Muzan Kibutsuji was his ability to split and flee, a tactic that had thwarted even the legendary Yoriichi Tsugikuni.
In the original series, it was Tamayo and Kocho Shinobu who, through collaborative research, developed drugs that played a pivotal role in suppressing Muzan Kibutsuji's regeneration and eventual defeat.
"Actually, I've been researching similar methods for years," Tamayo revealed. "Not only to counter his regeneration but also to weaken him with various poisons. However, due to the scarcity of Muzan Kibutsuji's blood, progress has been limited."
"I'll find a way to procure the blood," Aoki declared without hesitation.
Tamayo's face brightened with joy. Having a formidable ally certainly had its perks.
However, her smile faded as she spoke cautiously, "Mr. Aoki, Muzan Kibutsuji is exceptionally resilient. Given enough time, he can metabolize any poison. It's impossible to kill him with poison alone."
Aoki remained composed. "Ms. Tamayo, focus on the medicine. Leave the rest to me."
Tamayo regarded him thoughtfully, a gentle smile touching her lips. "Alright. I trust you, Mr. Aoki."
Aoki recalled something and inquired, "Is Muzan Kibutsuji currently in Asakusa?"
Tamayo nodded slowly. "Yes. From what I know, he maintains multiple identities and spends more than half of his time here in Asakusa."
"Is it safe for you to be so close to him?" Aoki frowned.
Though Tamayo and Yushiro had managed to remain safe thus far in the original series, Aoki harbored doubts. Now that Tamayo was crucial to his plans to defeat Muzan Kibutsuji, any misstep could prove fatal.
"In truth, staying near Muzan Kibutsuji has been an opportunity for me to find a way to end him," Tamayo confessed, her expression conflicted. "Now, with your help, Mr. Aoki, I believe we no longer need to take such risks. We should consider relocating to a safer place in the near future."
"That's for the best," Aoki agreed with a nod.
---
The two continued to converse throughout the night. Tamayo, with centuries of experience, exuded an air of gentle wisdom and elegance. Aoki, hailing from an era of information explosion, offered a perspective that transcended time and possessed a vision equally as profound as Tamayo's.
Most importantly, their shared identities as demons and their mutual objectives fostered a natural sense of camaraderie.
At Tamayo's invitation, Aoki decided to stay temporarily, intending to depart after the New Year. Despite his physical stamina, the mental exhaustion from his recent endeavors warranted a brief respite.
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