Bab 35: Flame Hashira
After some thought, Ryou accepted Tamayo's proposal and decided to help her collect the Demon Blood. The reason he hesitated at first was because he feared that his interference might alter the future.
However, after thinking for a while, he reasoned that his involvement wouldn't cause significant changes.
There was only one thing that had to remain unchanged: Nezuko conquering the sun and Muzan finding it.
"I will help you with this, but understand—trust is a delicate thing. Betray it, and I won't show mercy!" Ryou's serious gaze seemed to pierce through Tamayo and Yushiro.
Of course, he knew Tamayo wouldn't betray him, but he couldn't accept the proposal without some threats; it would only raise suspicions.
"I know," Tamayo said and then requested, "Please keep our collaboration a secret,"
"I trust you, but I can't say the same for other members of the Demon Slayer Corps. After all, most of them have been deeply affected by the demons. I can't expect all of them to be as compassionate."
"Good!" Ryou agreed.
"Yushiro and I will be leaving this area," Tamayo said. "I have a feeling Kibutsuji's minions may track this place soon. It's too risky to stay in one place for a long time and we need a new place to hide.
So, if you want to contact us, you can do so via this cat," Tamayo said.
A Burmese cat with a sleek brown coat and striking silver eyes jumped down from a tree. Ryou wasn't surprised, as he had sensed its presence earlier.
Similar to the cat Chachamaru that appears in the future, this one also wore a necklace with a paper talisman around its neck, possibly using it to conceal itself.
"Then we will take our leave," Tamayo and Yushiro bid their farewell with a slight bow of thanks, and their forms vanished into the night-shrouded forest.
Shortly after Tamayo and Yushiro's departure, a team of Kakushi arrived. They swiftly transferred the injured Slayer to a nearby medical facility. The fallen Slayers were respectfully taken back for a proper funeral.
--
A few days later, Ryou's Kasugai crow came with a message from the Ubuyashiki Household.
"Caw...Caw...Ryou...Rengoku Kyojuro has killed a Lower Moon demon and will be appointed as the new Flame Hashira in a few days. Please come to the Ubuyashiki Mansion if possible!"
"Finally!" Ryou smiled at the crow's message. 'He took his time to become a hashira!'
Ryou replied to the crow. "Inform Kagaya-sama, I will be there."
---
Two days later,
On the day of the ceremony, Ryou arrived at one of the Ubuyashiki Mansions, a secluded location hidden from Demon eyes. The other Hashira were also gathered in the outer courtyard of the mansion, except for the recently promoted Mist Hashira.
Ryou saw familiar faces as he entered the gate of the Mansion: Gyomei Himejima, Giyu Tomioka, Kanae Kocho, Sanemi Shinazugawa, and Uzui Tengen.
Rengoku Kyojuro was also present, seated off to the side.
Ryou's arrival attracted everyone's attention. After greeting everyone familiarly with brief words, Ryou took a seat beside Kanae, his eyes flashing with a hint of teasing.
"It's been some time, Kanae. How have you been?" he asked with a smile.
Kanae gave her usual smile. "I've been well, Ryou-san."
At that moment, Kagaya Ubuyashiki appeared with his wife, Amane, and his child, Kiriya Ubuyashiki. Like always, Kagaya's presence had a sense of calm and gentle demeanor.
"Thank you for coming, my children! You all should have heard the good news. Rengoku Kyojuro has proven his strength by killing a Lower Moon demon. It's news worthy of celebration.
"Kyojuro, you are an astounding boy...will you support the Demon Slayer Corps from now on as a Flame Hashira?" Kagaya asked.
"Yes," Kyojuro answered, his face bright and his smile radiant.
"I am honored to receive the title of Flame Hashira and I accept this responsibility. I will continue to fight the demons with all my strength to protect humanity and kill Muzan Kibutsuji." Kyojuro said with a determined and enthusiastic face, as he stood up from his seated position.
His determined words made the other Hashira nod their heads in approval, while Kagaya remarked softly, "Wonderful," and announced,
"Now, let's proceed with the semi-annual Hashira meeting,"
.
.
.
After two hours, the Hashira meeting ended with usual discussions on matters such as demon activities and respective Hahsira assignments.
----
After the meeting, Ryou took the opportunity to catch up with Kyojuro, congratulating him on his achievement.
"Kyojuro, you've done it! I'm happy for you, my friend!" Ryou said warmly, patting his shoulder.
"Thank you, Ryou," Kyojuro replied with a wide smile. "But you became a Hashira before me. It seems like I lost this bet!"
Ryou chuckled. "Yes. So, you're going to buy me food. I'm hungry, and I won't let you get away before I empty your purse."
"I don't mind, Ryou," Kyojuro laughed heartily. They decided to head to an udon shop in the nearby town.
As the evening set in, they found a cozy udon shop tucked away in a corner of the bustling town. The aroma of freshly cooked noodles filled the air, drawing them in. They sat down at a wooden table, and the owner greeted them warmly.
"Welcome, guests. What would you like to have?"
"Two bowls of your best udon, please," Kyojuro ordered loudly with enthusiasm. His exuberance startled the old owner slightly, but he still smiled and nodded.
After a few minutes, their food arrived—steaming bowls of udon with perfectly cooked noodles and savory broth. They dug in, savoring each bite while continuing their conversation.
Ryou asked, "Tell me about the Lower Moon you killed, Kyojuro. Was it strong? From your state, I can see you got injured."
"Delicious!" Kyojuro declared with a loud outburst before replying to Ryou. "It was a Lower Moon Two demon. It had the ability to create and manipulate shadows. It was pretty strong, but I surpassed myself and killed the demon."
Ryou nodded, "Truly remarkable!"
"But it's not enough. I have to get stronger. I don't want to see my comrades falling beside me," Kyojuro said with determination blazing in his eyes.
'It seems like many people died during the mission,' Ryou thought, understanding Kyojuro's emotion.
After finishing their meal, they thanked the owner and stepped out into the cool evening air. It was time for them to go their separate ways.
"See you, Kyojuro. From now on, we will fight together against the demons as Hashira and protect the people!" Ryou said his goodbye and walked away.
"Yes," Kyojuro replied.
--
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