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trancylovecraft · 5 months

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(KNY) YANDERE PLATONIC! KOKUSHIBO x SISTER READER: You, Shibou. I, Kokoro (CHAPTER EIGHTEEN)

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CHAPTER EIGHTEEN: "Where you go, I'm going."

Daimyo are feudal lords or magnates from ancient Japan. They ruled the majority of Japan through their hereditary land ownings, Being only subordinate to the Shogun and the Emperor.

The moon was held high in the sky, The lunar signalling midnight amongst the dark sea it hung on.

It filtered through the estate, Cracks in the pristine wood and the miniscule gaps in the windows. It was soft and sublime, A kind of light that chilled the skin in such a comforting way, A way where you just had to take a moment to take it all in.

It danced across his skin, Michikatsu's eyes shut gently as he slept quietly within his futon. The sliding window above him let the light through, Shining down onto his face as he breathed in and out.

It was the only thing illuminating the darkness of his room, The luminescence rolling off the silhouettes of what grandiose furniture was in his chambers. Mirrors, Storage units, Plants regularly watered by the servants. All of it was shrouded within darkness yet illuminated by the light just enough to make out the shape.

His eyes strained, Eyelids clenching together, However it was not due to the light.

A strange rocking sensation stirred him in his sleep, A gentle pressure on his side as he groaned softly in his sleep. He tried to shake it off as his mind was still enraptured within the thrall of his sleep, His breath only hitched for a moment before going back to its rhythm.

"Michi-nii..! Michi-nii..!"

A sort of shaky, Familiar voice called out to him in a hushed whisper. Michikatsu murmured something unintelligible through his sleep, The dark hair sprawled across his pillow and face only muddled his eyesight just a bit as he took a groggy peek.

His vision blurry, But he could make out the figure of his little sister shifting uncomfortably through the muddled darkness. He lazily lifted his head from the comfort of his pillow, Slightly shaking the hair out of his eyes.

"[F/N]..?" Michikatsu asked as he looked up at her, His vision dazed as he saw her look down at him with skittish eyes. She shifted in her oversized kimono robe she had most definetly just thrown on, Grasping onto the hems of her sleeves as she spoke.

"Michi-nii..! I'm sorry- Uhm.." She babbled slightly, Stumbling over her whispered words as she strayed her gaze away from him.

Michikatsu groaned as he propped himself up with one hand, The other moving to rub the sleep out of his eyes.

"[F/N]..? What's wrong, You know father wouldn't like it if he knew you were out here at night.." Michikatsu warned softly as he watched her try to gather her words, Remembering how their father was rather.. Adverse to his offspring wandering at night.

"I-I.. Uhm.. I had a nightmare." [F/N] admitted as she finally looked down at him, Almost expecting a sort of negative reaction from him. Like how their father often did. "It was scary.. I don't wanna be alone right now.."

"A nightmare..? What do you mean?" Michikatsu asked, Still half-asleep.

"I was being chased by a monster!" [F/N] hush whispered to him, Meek eyes staring down at him. "It was so big, It had so many eyes- I was running through a town with bright lights- I could hear it running behind me! It chased me for hours before it caught me- It hurt me- It dragged me away!"

Michikatsu listened onto her rather paranoid voice, Watch as her eyes darted back and forth for any sign of the monster throughout the darkness. He could tell she was terrified, Especially as she nudged closer towards him, Gripping onto the hems of her kimono sleeves.

"..I wanna sleep in here tonight, I don't wanna be alone." [F/N] begged quietly, Almost pleading as he looked into her eyes.

Michikatsu's lips thinned as he looked at her. In any other scenario he would have no problem saying yes to her, It was difficult to say no to begin with. But recalling the time she had been caught running around the garden late at night.

Their father called it unlady-like, Especially once he found her rather fancy kimono dirtied with muck. If her future suitors knew about her unfavourable behaviour..

It didn't end good, That was the understatement. Michikatsu couldn't tell if it was bravery or audacity that she was still okay with asking him again now. But it didn't matter. Michikatsu shook his head, Pushing himself up to a sitting position.

"[F/N].. You remember what happened last time father caught you in the garden? Who knows what he'll do if he finds you here.." Michikatsu sighed as he shook his head, Giving her a rather apologetic look.

[F/N]'s eyes widened, Stepping forward towards him.

"Please.. I'm scared, What if the monster in my nightmare comes back again?" [F/N] blurted out, Stamping her little foot slightly on the floor. "I couldn't help it, I don't wanna. It's so dark and quiet- I don't like it!"

Michikatsu opened his mouth to speak once more, However [F/N] beat him to it.

"Please, Michi-nii! I don't wanna be alone.." She begged, Her voice as quiet as mouse.

Michikatsu watched as her eyes pleaded with his, Feeling like his heart was being squeezed within his chest. There it was, The difficulty to say no. Michikatsu watched her lip tremble, The shake almost extending to the rest of her body as she feared leaving the room.

He knew it was for the best if he said no..

But he sighed, Almost in defeat.

"..Alright, Come here." Michikatsu said as he beckoned her forward, Pushing the sheets off off of his body as he shimmied to the side.

[F/N] beamed, Wide and bright in contrast the the dark of his room.

"Yay! Thank you, Michi-nii!" [F/N] cheered quietly as she excitedly lowered and sat herself down next to him on the futon. Michikatsu sighed as he pulled her closer, Watching her kick off her sandals to the side of the room as she happily rested her head down on the pillow.

Michikatsu breathed out a discontented sigh, But the small smile creeping up on his face couldn't be concealed.

"But you gotta leave in the morning, Okay? Father will be coming to collect me for training and he can't find you here." Michikatsu said as he laid back down onto his futon, [F/N] by his side who eagerly cuddled up to him when Michikatsu wrapped his arms around her.

She nodded before resting her head on his shoulder.

"That's fine.. As long as the monster doesn't get me, I'll be okay." [F/N] mumbled as Michikatsu pulled over the covers to get at ease himself, Nesting herself into the blankets comfortably.

"The monster isn't real, Don't worry.. And if it is- I promise I'll protect you, Okay? That's my job as the next head of this clan.. And as your brother." He assured as he rested his head on top of hers, Shutting his eyes.

[F/N] smiled quietly as her eyes shut as well, Getting comfortable as he held her closer to him. The night terror that had haunted her before became only an afterthought as she already felt at ease under the covers, Knowing that his words would be true.

She breathed out, Nesting further under the covers.

"Okay."

☆♡☆

Obanai Iguro had no idea why he was here.

He strode through the passage of some hallway in an admittedly cosy Inn, One in the middle of absolutely nowhere he recognised. It was safe to say he was irked, The slight narrow of his mismatched eyes shown that fact rather clearly.

Kaburamaru slithered loosely around his neck, Sensing his discomfort as he flicked his lounge in and out. Obanai sighed out through the bandages making up his mask, A slight scowl still on his face as he folded his arms.

He had been called by the crow to the village of Hiyohara, A small yet beautiful little township located near Fukushima. The scroll kept within the talons of the bird had detailed little as to why he was here, Only outlining that it was important and sent by the Insect Hashira of all people.

Kaburamaru would be pleased at least.

Obanai rolled his eyes as he remembered the little crush his beloved snake had on her, Nodding to a local as they passed him by on the hallway. The number listed should've been at the end of the hallway, Where he absentmindedly strode to.

As he drew nearer and nearer to the end, He could see the final oaken door within the rather quaint hall. Though as he stepped forward once more on the floorboards, Obanai listened closer.

Noises could be heard behind it, Chatter from several different voices to be precise. Some were soft and delicate, Others were rough and steady. Male and female, Obanai furrowed his brow as he had recognised a majority of the voices.

He stopped, Pausing in front of the door. Kaburamaru coiled just a bit tighter as they stilled to listen on.

His stomach churned as he raised a fist to greet the door.

"Iguro-san!"

Obanai eyes widened as the door was swung open before his knuckles could knock against the wood, His arm swiftly lunged back to his side as his body grew rigid. Once his eyes focused, Obanai felt his heart skip a beat.

Mitsuri Kanroji stood there, Her candy coloured kimono loose-fitting and draped around her body. Beautifully vivid hair was done up in a bun decorated with jewelled pins, And she was looking at him with her signature smile.

Obanai found himself shy, Eyes darting away from her.

"I didn't know you would be here.. It's nice to see you again, Kanroji-san." He muttered.

Though he gasped once he felt her arms throw themselves around him, Pulling him closer until his head was resting upon Mitsuri's shoulder. Obanai hitched a breath, Mitsuri grinning ear to ear as she felt his warmth against hers.

"It's amazing to see you too, Iguro-san! You know, I thought you wouldn't show up! You came pretty late compared to everyone else and I assumed you might not make it!" Mitsuri squealed as she hugged him tighter, Her head resting on his shoulder and vice versa.

"Uhm.. There were a few detours I had to take to get here, I got rather lost- I apologise"

It had only taken him a day to get here, Detours taken because the directions provided were rather vague. Hiyohara was a town he hadn't visited, Fukushima being a city where he barely tread in the first place as he usually operated in the south.

"Kyah~! Don't worry about it, You're here now!" Mitsuri assured as she pulled away from him, Leaving a sort of warmth that Obanai tried to burn into his memory. "Come in, Come in! Shinobu-chan can fill you in."

Mitsuri beckoned him forward with a call of her hand, Stepping back to allow him into the neat little room they were situated in. Obanai took her invitation as he wandered inside, The view of the room finally made available to him.

It was warm, Warm enough to feel through the fabric of his slayer uniform and striped black haori. It was also a rather homely set up with a few simple futons set off to the side and minimal furniture decorating the place.

There were several people he recognised here, Shinobu and Gyomei who sat conversing off to the side who called out a greeting once he walked in. And for some reason, There was a blonde haired girl who had her hands bound to her feet with bandages, Looking rather terrified with another bandage covering her mouth.

Before he could question the bizarre sight however, His eyes caught onto something else entirely. Obanai scowled, His eyes landing on a single group in particular.

"What is he doing here." Obanai hissed as he threw out an accusing finger towards a specific spot of the room, An instant jeer taking him over as he glared hot at the group across him.

Sat at the little table in the middle of the room was Tanjiro Kamado and his sister, Followed by Shinobu Kocho's Tsuguko, Kanao and Gyomei Himejima's Tsuguko, Shizuko sitting next to some Boar-headed kid. They seemed to be drinking some blend of tea they must've acquired from the village merchants, Their cups still mildly warm.

"Oh, Hello Iguro-sama!" Tanjiro waved as he saw Obanai enter inside, Nezuko followed suit, Eagerly waving her own silent greeting as she hummed through her bamboo muzzle. Obanai only shot daggers at him, His hand itching for his blade at the sight of the girl.

"Aha.. How about we move on?" Mitsuri giggled awkwardly as she urged Obanai along, Who continued to glare at the boy and his demon sister. Guiding him past the group, They made their way towards the other two Hashira in the room.

"Iguro-san! It's great to see that you've finally arrived, I assume there was some trouble getting here?" Shinobu asked with a smile as they approached, Kaburamaru perking up at the sight of the woman, Slithering just a bit further around Obanai's neck.

Ignoring his beloved snake, His eyes narrowed on Shinobu.

"Yes.. " Obanai drawled as he eyed her up and down. "Your directions were quite vague. And you failed to mention the prescence of that boy and his demon sister. What exactly is the meaning of this?"

Shinobu hummed, A rather small and placid smile appearing on her face as he asked his question. Tilting her head to the side, She spoke.

"Aha.. I see you're still sour about a demon being in the corps, Iguro-sama." Shinobu observed as she saw his scowl. "The reason why your here on vague directions is for a mission, No need to worry!"

Obanai's face scrunched up for a second, Almost wanting to say something but instead rolled his eyes.

"..Whatever, And the girl over there? What is that about?" Obanai asked as he motioned towards the girl still tied up in the corner, Who this entire time had been making muffled pleas for help from behind the bandage covering her mouth.

"Maika Heihachiro.. One of our shrine maidens that somehow made her way here." Gyomei spoke up from beside Shinobu, Beads rattling in his hands. " An eavesdropper from what we can assume.. We caught this one listening outside the door."

"A shrine maiden, All the way out here?" Obanai 'hmphed' as he continued to look at her. Maika felt like a mouse once Kaburamaru took a rather distasteful interest in her, Hissing lowly under his breath.

Kaburamaru flaunted his fangs, Maika yelped once he near lunged towards her.

"Oh, How could I forget about you, Kaburamaru?" Shinobu giggled as her hand reached into the inside of her haori, Mitsuri and Obanai had to double take when she slipped out a little mouse from inside. Tail pinched carefully between her fingers.

"Do.. Do you keep them on you at all times?" Mitsuri gawked as she watched Kaburamaru's eyes light up, His attention drawn to the dead little mouse being lowered towards him eagerly.

"Oh, No! I just assumed my favourite serpent would want a snack after such a long journey, Doesn't he?" Shinobu cooed as she teased the mouse in front of Kaburamaru's jaw, Lowering so he could get a better grasp on the rodent.

Obanai groaned. His shoulders drooping once Kaburamaru excitedly latched onto the mouse, Shinobu letting go of the rodent to let him scarf it down almost ravenously.

"Can you stop feeding my snake, Kocho-san?" He groaned as Kaburamaru happily choked down the mouse, Shinobu not even turning to look at him as she focused her efforts on Kaburamaru.

"Aha.. Yes, I suppose we really should get down to business, Shouldn't we!" She giggled once Kaburamaru was done, Slithering back around Obanai's neck while affectionately looking at Shinobu.

She raised back up, Finally turning to look at Obanai.

"Now, Let's get to talking!"

☆♡☆

[F/N] breathed out, Feeling herself come into consciousness.

Her eyelids were heavy and she could feel the weight of her blanket cover her body. A pillow under her head, Another she hugged within her arms. [F/N] took a moment to gather herself, To bring herself back to reality.

Another sleep, Another vision.

This one was one of the unfamiliar ones, Not from her past. [F/N] could only assume that it would've been from her past life, No matter how ridiculous that sounded to anyone out of the loop.

[F/N] sighed.

Fuck, It still sounded ridiculous to her anyways.

It was still nothing, It was just another one out of the blue that meant nothing to her current situation. Apparently she had some nightmare as a child and had tried to find comfort in Kokushibo, Or perhaps it was more accurate to call him Michikatsu.

Michikatsu Tsugikuni, That was his name.

Tsugikuni, A neuron connecting in her brain.

Akeno Tsugikuni.

[F/N] had put down the journal once she had read that name yesterday. It was like a jolt to the heart once it came to her, Needing to fully put the diary down and gather her thoughts as to what she was reading.

Tsugikuni, That was the clan name that Kokushibo had provided on her very first day here. Proclaiming that Tsugikuni was her clan name too.

But who was Akeno?

Could she be a wife to another clansmen? Another sibling perhaps? A Mother maybe. [F/N] figured it was best that she'd find out during her next read, The read she was bound to get in once she finally pried herself out of bed.

[F/N] scrunched up her face. To be honest, She hadn't a clue about whatever family could've been in the Tsugikuni clan. She really didn't know anything about her so-called past life, And why Akeno's journal had suddenly appeared out of nowhere for her to read.

Currently it was lying amongst the cutlery on her bedside, [F/N] being too lazy to put it in with her rope and nails that Akaza had provided for her, Currently lying underneath her mattress. [F/N] deeming that it would be a good enough hiding place for her contraband to stay.

[F/N] stilled for a second.

She noticed something strange, Something weird in the room.

The frigid draft that usually flooded the room was so much more present than it was before, So much so that she could feel it even under the warmth of her covers. The ultramarine light that was usually outside seemed to enter in. Though she couldn't see, [F/N] could tell it was.. Much brighter than it was suppose to be.

CREAK!

Her breath hitched, Just for a moment.

Though it stilled just as fast, Returning back to a forced rhythm of pretend sleep. Up and down, She tried not to react to the depressing of the floorboards only a few feet away from her.

A sudden aura came to her, One that removed any remaining grogginess in her mind. It took everything in [F/N] to not reveal that she was awake, Not to gag or jolt at the mere presence.

Kokushibo.

He was here.

From what [F/N] could tell, He was only a few feet away from her at the other end of the room. She could already feel the burning pricks of his eyes look over her sleeping body, [F/N] trying not to shiver under that bloodcurdling gaze.

Calm yourself, [F/N].

She could feel his weight move forward, Another board creaked, A footstep placed in front of the previous.

How long had he been here? Had he just came in? [F/N] chided herself for being so caught up in her own head to ignore his presence entering the room. That foul aura, Toxic and rotten like spoiled milk and vulture chow.

It moved forward towards her, Even closer.

[F/N] listened as he began to draw near, Moving closer towards where she slept. She intently listened to every little creak of the floor, Felt that aura draw closer, Pungent and rotten.

All until that light was blocked out from what she could perceive through her eyelids.

Kokushibo standing right in front of her, Eclipsing the light.

The silence was so loud, So loud that it almost made [F/N] break the rhythm of her breath. [F/N] tried to keep up her sleeping façade, Pleading, Almost begging for him to do something to break that silence.

He was probably just here to drop off her breakfast- That was all- Everything would be-

[F/N] stilled.

What?

She almost needed to take a moment to process what was happening, Almost opened her eyes to confirm that what she was feeling.

A hand was touching her hair.

[F/N] felt Kokushibo cup his palm around her hair, His fingers somehow making their way into the strands of her hair to almost cradle the back of her head. [F/N] felt his icy cold grip like ice on her skin, So cold that the gelid ocean outside couldn't compete.

She heard him lower and a plate clatter settle down on her side table. His hand stroked her hair, Almost fondly, As if stroking the coat of a dog. She felt his clawed thumb rub circles into her skin, Gently and featherlight as if not to wake her.

She wanted to puke, Wanted to scream and shy away from his touch. [F/N] almost felt disgusted when she remembered she had to get closer to him.

Thankfully it was over in a minute, Feeling his hand leave the hair on her scalp and retract back to his side. He breathed out, Stepping back away from her only slightly as she continued to stare at her. Closer to him.

Kokushibo looked over her, Watching the sheets rise up and down in tandem with [F/N]'s breath. The platter of assorted Sashimi still laying within the cluster of bowls and plates piling up together.

He turned on his heel, Ready to exit the room like he had done everyday-

In a moment, A hand gripped onto arm.

A palm wrapping around his wrist made him still in place.

"Stay..!"

Kokushibo turned around, Eyes near bulging out of their sockets.

☆♡☆

"Master.. May I speak with you for a minute?"

Shizuko turned his head to look up at Gyomei, His master, Who overtime had made his way out of the group of other Hashira. Shinobu and Iguro seemed to be in rapt debate, Mitsuri scrambling with a nervous smile to try and calm the both of them down.

Gyomei had long abandoned trying to quell the situation, As it had proven fruitless. Obanai had grown rather understandably alarmed at the prospect of going behind Oyataka-sama's back, Decidingly getting mad about it.

Shinobu tried to calm him down along with Mitsuri, Their chatter going loud in the background as Shizuko and Gyomei stood off to the side. The other non-Hashira still conversing around the side table.

Gyomei rattled the beads snaked around his hand, Trying to shut out the differing conversations.

"I already am aware of what you wish to ask.. But please, Go ahead." Gyomei said as he heard Shizuko fold his arms next to him, Sensing his eyes narrow, A abased confusion dawning on him.

Shizuko sighed.

"Are we just not going to talk about a few days ago? You promised you would speak with me once we met again and here I am." He said, Gesturing to the whole of himself as he looked up at Gyomei. "So please, Master, Can you tell me what you know..?"

Gyomei's brows furrowed. Even though he already expected it, It was still a rather sour topic to him. When Shizuko came to him and had deduced that he, Gyomei, Had known something about the As much as he would like to tell him, It was not his story to say.

Gyomei sighed, Sad expression broadening further across his face. "No.. I cannot." He finalised as he turned towards his Tsuguko, His sorrowful expression sincere as he spoke.

Shizuko near scoffed, Almost in disbelief as he shook his head.

"Master-"

"Please.. Let me finish, Shizuko. I have my reasons for staying silent on this topic." Gyomei cut in with an assuring tone, A surprised expression flashing across Shizuko's face at his interruption.

"It is why I wished for you to be here instead of Genya, Or any other slayer.. I believe that going on this mission will do well for you"

"I still don't get it, Master." Shizuko exasperated, Shaking his head impatiently. "I've been wanting to know for years of my life who it was that held my hand, Why can't you just tell me..?"

Gyomei sighed as he listened to Shizuko's words, Knowing full well that this wasn't fair on him. Shizuko looked up at him and even though Gyomei was unable to see, He could feel the desperation within his eyes.

Gyomei's lips thinned, Brows knitting together as he tried to find the right words to say.

"Shizuko.. The reason I put our conversation off in the first place was because.. I am not the right person to have it with you." He explained slowly. "If I told you what I knew.. You would have much more questions than you would answers.. It would not be right."

"Then who is the right person?" Shizuko urged, Desperation in his voice as he stepped forward.

"Someone who will be able to explain it entirely to you." Gyomei, Unknowingly tuning into arguments only a bit away from the two of him. The higher pitched voice of Mitsuri Kanroji becoming much more prominent than it did before.

Gyomei sighed, Hearing as they continued to bicker.

Shizuko just stared at Gyomei, Desperation almost burning within his eyes. Without thought his hand trails up to his head, Fingers itching as they moved under his hair to graze over his scar, Almost begging to remember what he wanted to know.

His hand burned, The scar even more so.

"..I need to know." He whispered, More to himself now as his sight went unfocused. It was almost if he wasn't seeing what was in front of him now, Instead just a muddled memory kept locked inside his mind.

He was snapped out of it however. The wretched feeling of a hand rested on his shoulder, A horrid sensation yet more comforting than the others as he looked up.

Gyomei stared down at him, A small smile spread on his lips.

"I promise you, Shizuko.. You will know in time. Just please, Promise me you will be patient." He assured, His voice though mournful was warm enough to bring Shizuko back to reality if just for a moment.

Shizuko smiled back, Though it seemed awkward, Almost unfamiliar on his face.

"I promise. Thank you, Master." Shizuko replied, His body visibly relaxing as Gyomei's hand rested on his shoulder. Even though his touch repelled him just like the others, Shizuko could take comfort in the silence they shared, No more words needing to be spoken.

They shared a moment together, Simply like that. The sounds of argument in the background

"Mmph! Mmph!"

Both heads snapped down, Looking towards the blonde girl still restrained in the corner. It appeared that she had been here the entire time, A terrified expression still on her face as she pleaded with them to let her go through the bandage covering her mouth.

"Ah.. I had forgotten that she was there." Gyomei remarked as Maika struggled in the ropes, Trying but failing to get out.

Almost on cue, Inosuke kicked up at the other table. Yelling something with his voice sounding like pig-latin, Tanjiro and the others moving to pull him back into a more. Most definetly causing a disturbance throughout the entire inn.

Shizuko rolled his eyes.

"I should probably go deal with that.. Thank you anyways, Master." Shizuko shrugged as he pushed himself up from the wall, Smile dropping and returning to his signature Shooting Maika a glare that made a shiver run down her spine.

With that, He stalked off towards the table. Barking out a 'What are you idiots doing' as heads turned to look at him.

Gyomei shook his head as he watched Shizuko walk off, Forgetting his rather harsh tone when dealing with people.

"Hello, Gyomei-san!"

A voice called out from beside him, Happy and cheerful as he noticed it was Mitsuri. He realised that the bickering could no longer be heard in the background, With good reason hopefully, Mitsuri deciding to check-up on him afterwards.

He nodded, Turning towards her.

"Ah.. Kanroji-san. I hope Iguro-san has came around to the idea of infiltrating the cult.." Gyomei asked as she looked up at him with a rather relieved expression, Her smile widened, Just a little bit more awkwardly.

"Aha.. Took some convincing and some appealing to Kaburamaru, But he agreed to keep everything quiet eventually!" Mitsuri laughed as she scratched the back of her head, Recalling the efforts both her and Shinobu had to take to get Obanai on their side.

"And how are you doing?" Gyomei asked in return.

"Amazing now, Thanks! We finally got our business in order, So.. What's happening?" Mitsuri asked with a peppy smile as she looked up at the older man, An unknowing shine in her eyes as she looked up at him.

"Mmph! Mmph!"

Gyomei sighed as he heard Maika struggling once more.

Time to deal with this..

☆♡☆

[F/N] felt nervous.

She felt like a mouse in a trap, Caged within walls bigger than her with no way out. Or perhaps it was more accurate to say that she felt like a mouse in a laboratory, Under dissection or observation from a scientist.

It would account for the staring, After all.

[F/N] sat upon her bed, Legs folded in a basket with a plate of sashimi nestled on her lap. Her eyes were focused entirely on the seafood, Smelling the saltwater still fresh on the fish and the soy sauce it was drenched in.

Within the darkness, Were three pairs of eyes staring dead at her.

[F/N] tried not to bring attention to it as she picked up another salmon slice from her platter, Bringing it up to her lips and half-heartedly nibbling on the salinic meat. The golden eyes like stars in the night burning into her skin.

She couldn't even see him from within the darkness, His body entirely consumed by the shadow. Only the spotlights of his eyes staring dead at her, Never leaving for a moment as he sat on his knees, Watching her eat the food he had prepared for her.

[F/N] placed the salmon slice into her mouth, Slowly chewing so the taste would ruminate on her tongue. Why she asked him to stay in the first place- She regretted even asking, Believing it to be a stupid move.

To get closer to him, That was her plan. The word 'Stay' just came out of her mouth without thought. It was almost as if second nature, Even though being around him was the last thing [F/N] wanted in the first place.

[F/N] wasn't quite sure where it came from, But didn't have any basis to find out either.

So she ate her meal, Quietly and without sound as Kokushibo sat knelt in the corner, Watching [F/N] like an insect on a dissecting table. All while she tried to come up with a game plan, To try and worm her way out of this situation.

That- Or try to make the most of it.

Get closer to him like she was suppose to, Take advantage of the situation and like she was suppose to.

Either way, This was a chance to try and get him to trust her more. Even though the words were caught in her throat, Even though she wanted to shrivel up into a corner and never come out- [F/N] needed to try.

Her lips thinned.

"..The journal, Did you put it on my nightstand?"

[F/N]'s voice rang out louder than it was spoken, Her eyes still focused on her food as she blurted out her words.

Kokushibo didn't stutter, Continuing to stare at her from within the shadows of the room. It was again silent, No word spoken. [F/N] swallowed, Almost expecting him to not answer at all.

"..Yes." Kokushibo rasped, His voice that same deep drone as it always was. [F/N] tried not to release a sigh from her lips, Instead keeping them thinned and pressed together as to not reveal her discomfort.

"I see.." She mumbled as she selected another slice of sashimi, A vibrant red tuna slice bound to make mouths water, That of which was proven once [F/N] placed it onto her tongue. "I was just wondering, That's all.."

Kokushibo hummed in acknowledgement as he watched her consume the meal he made. [F/N] didn't know why she felt the need to explain herself to him, Perhaps to confirm she was in his good graces?

She swallowed the tuna, The explanation more sour than her stomach right now.

"..No offense, Kokushibo-sama but.. Why?" [F/N] asked with a cautious tone. Eyes daring to take a peak at him before catching those angler eyes in her vision, Sight quickly moving back down to her food.

"A few months ago.. You had mentioned that your breathing style requires a calm mind.. I assumed that it might assist in that perspective. Reading and meditation were two activities you mentioned.." Kokushibo explained lowly.

[F/N] hummed as she bit into another tuna chunk.

"A diary is a strange choice for reading material.." She spoke through her chews, Poking at the rest of the fish.

Kokushibo didn't answer for a while after that, Letting the silence seep back in from the absense of conversation. [F/N] began to feel the cold of her sweat build up on her back once more, Breathing much more shallow.

Kokushibo's eyes narrowed on her, Watching as she shied her gaze away from him once more.

"..Instead of questioning me, How about you tell me why you asked me to be here..?" He asked slowly, Eyes focused much hotter on her before.

[F/N] froze slightly, Her movements paused just for a second.

There was the million dollar question, The one that she had dreaded coming out of his mouth. Even though she had been expecting it, It still made a pit form in her stomach like stones.

Though her mouth was dry, She began to speak.

"I.. I don't know, I guess I just wanted to have a conversation with someone. I haven't really been able to talk with anyone in months so.." [F/N] shrugged, Shaking her head as it was the best she could come up with.

"You have that boy, Kaigaku.. Despite his rather obvious shortcomings, He should provide enough social interaction for you.." Kokushibo countered, Recalling giving Kaigaku permission to speak with her, No matter how much he detested otherwise.

[F/N] could've almost laughed at how out of touch he was. Despite being a rather solidary person, Even she needed a bit of small talk from time to time and most definetly not with one person and one person alone.

It was almost funny how deluded he was.

Despite her cold humour in the situation, She kept her face still, Though she shook her head.

"I don't like Kaigaku.. It's nothing personal, He's just not good at holding a worthwhile conversation." [F/N] sighed, More in relief as it seems that Kaigaku didn't tell Kokushibo of what happened only yesterday.

Kokushibo's face sharpened at her words.

"And you assumed that I would want to speak with you instead..?" He asked with an apathetic yet brutal expression, Eyes digging into her skin. [F/N] felt herself supress a rather nasty scowl.

What the hell was his deal?

She was trying her best to be polite with him. Despite it all, How much she despised him to the very bone, How his presence even metres away made her want to puke. His aura was rotten, But she was trying her very best to endure it.

Even he, Kokushibo had specifically told her that he would be 'withholding affection' until she got out of her 'rebellious phase'. And she was doing just as he said, She wasn't throwing passive aggressive remarks. She even made the effort to talk to him like she was doing now, Even though it made bile rise in her throat.

So why the hell did he sound so unhappy to be here right now? In fact, [F/N] felt like he was acting much more opposed to her than he usually seemed to be. Could he be suspicious? Perhaps it was because it was still a very new change in her attitude, Maybe that was it..

But it didn't add up, Not at all.

"..You can just go, I don't mind being alone" [F/N] mumbled as she turned back towards her food, Gesturing towards the door with a shake of her head. "..Sorry for keeping you from whatever you do."

She was probably gonna go back to sleep again once he left anyways, At least until Akaza returned. She'd probably just have another vision. A nightmare, Perhaps. At least that would be able to take her mind off the one that she was currently living through.

Kokushibo breathed out, Once more.

Through the silence she could her the faint patter of his hand placing onto the ground. [F/N] listened as she heard the floorboards croak, Kokushibo pushing himself up to his full staggering height.

[F/N] sighed as she heard him stand up, Waiting for him to leave as she ate the remains of her sashimi. At least he wouldn't be bothering her anymore, Expecting the ultramarine shine of the light outside to hit her face any moment now.

[F/N] chewed on her salmon slice.

Her eyebrows furrowed.

She swallowed it, The taste lasting on her tongue.

She blinked, A few moments passing as she looked up to see what was wrong. That turquoise light didn't hit her face after the usual time it took to-

[F/N] felt her heart stop entirely.

He was standing right in front of her, Not even moving an inch as he imposed over her from where she sat. They were only a feet apart, His face steeled in that omnipresent scowl that looked [F/N] felt her sweat drop, Her heart stop entirely in her chest. His eyes narrowed.

"The diary.. Have you been reading it?" He asked in a gravelly pitch, Eyes not departing from hers as his hand reached over to pluck the book from her bedside. [F/N]'s throat felt dry, Feeling herself almost shrivel up inside.

She double-taked however, Shaking off her shock.

"Erm.. Yes." [F/N] breathed out as she watched him flick open the book, Flipping through the pages at a rapid rate until it reached the page where she dog-eared to mark her place. Eyes snapped over to the letters, Beginning to read.

She watched as he scanned the lines with a quick pace, Almost jumping out of her skin once his eyes snapped back over to her.

"You have gotten a fair bit into the journal.. A fast reader, I see.." What would sound like a compliment from any other lips sounded like an observation from him, The kind that would be noted down for a scientific thesis.

[F/N] nodded along, Not daring to speak.

"You are, However.. Only a fraction of the way through.." He continued as his eyes drew back to the book, Reading from where she had left off yesterday. [F/N] felt a question burn on the tip of her tongue. Her mouth opened.

"W-Who is Akeno..? The woman in the book?" [F/N] blurted out, Her eyes still shied away from his as he looked back at her. The words just flooded out of her mouth, Almost like a dam finally breaking down.

Kokushibo breathed out.

"Our mother." He spoke simply, Face not changing a single bit.

[F/N] took a moment to process before she nodded slowly. Strangely enough, Learning that the woman she had been reading about was her supposed mother was not something that brought out a reaction out of her.

Not a big one anyways. But [F/N] couldn't deny that she felt a bit.. Intrigued.

I mean, [F/N] didn't even like her actual mother. A bitter and foul woman. It was a celebration once she died, [F/N] might as well have played beer pong with the bucket that woman kicked.

So [F/N] felt curiosity build up in her.

Would Akeno be like that?

Kokushibo slammed the book shut with a single hand, Bringing [F/N] back to the current situation she was in as she jolted in surprise. His hand moved over, Setting the journal down on the bedside.

His eyes narrowed.

"You are.. Different." Kokushibo stated, Eyes running over her like she was nothing but a frog to be cut open. It was uncomfortable, Skin itching even as he seemed to examine every little blemish on her.

[F/N] averted her gaze back down to her tightly curled fists.

"What..?" She asked slowly, Puzzled by his words.

"It is strange, You do not act like you did before.. There is a rather stark difference, Much more.." Kokushibo trailed off, Eyes still trained intently on her as he paused in his speech. The room suddenly fell quiet once more-

Deathly so.

It felt like forever, As if time had decided to slow down just in this single moment. Her skin burned and blistered under his sight, And Kokushibo never strayed his vision away from her. [F/N] silently begged him to just finish what he wanted to say, To get it over with.

But his lips thinned, And [F/N] could feel the irritated tinge in his aura from miles away.

Kokushibo turned to leave, Not bothering to finish his sentence.

"Continue reading.. I will come back tomorrow to make sure you are.." He spoke as he began to leave, Slowly stalking off towards the door in the room. [F/N]'s lips thinned before they opened.

"Uhm.. What about training?" She asked, Gripping the platter between her hands just a little too tightly.

Kokushibo paused in his walk, But he didn't turn to look at her.

"Until you are confident you will be able to wield Soul Breathing.. You will spend your time focused on literature and other remedial activities.. " Kokushibo explained as [F/N] nodded slowly to his words.

"Kind of a lack of 'remedial activities' to do.. Maybe if the library was a bit more stocked up, I'd have at least something to occupy my time." She muttered more to herself than to him, Under her breath as her eyes wandered off somewhere else.

Kokushibo hummed, Acknowledging her remark before he turned on his heel once more and left. This time, [F/N] didn't stop him as he marched towards the door within the blinding darkness, Her eyes kept on his back at all times.

Pulling it open, He didn't look back at her as the light hit her face. Then it disappeared entirely, Along with Kokushibo's presence.

[F/N] gasped before she took the biggest breath of her entire life, The air finally ripening around her as his suffocating presence left her. That rotten aura like decaying cow carcasses in a field-

It was finally gone.

☆♡☆

"This is still a stupid plan, You should have told Oyataka-sama- You should've provided the information you got from your crow instead of going rogue and deciding to go on some death mission..!" Obanai hissed, Eyes hawked in on Shinobu with a rather menacing glare.

Shinobu didn't feel it a bit however, Not even bothering to shake it off as she smiled.

"No matter now, I suppose. You already agreed to go through with this 'stupid plan' and I don't take any second thoughts!" She hummed, Looking at them from the side as they stood off a bit away from the other groups.

"I'm only doing this because of her, You know my history associated with cults.." Obanai mumbled, His head tossed to the side with a rather sour expression on his face.

Shinobu smiled, Much more sly and knowing than it should've been as she looked Obanai up and down. There was a perfectly good reason why Shinobu had asked him here in particular, Her reasoning seemingly paying off as she watched Obanai almost ogle at Mitsuri who was currently chatting with Gyomei.

"Of course.. I didn't expect anything more." Shinobu remarked as she watched the two converse idly with each other, Both glancing down at the shrine maiden they had caught hours earlier, Still restrained. Shinobu sighed, Shaking her head.

"Ah.. I suppose we shouldn't keep everyone waiting any longer, Let's head off to the convent, Hm?" Shinobu proposed, Not waiting for his response as she stepped forward towards Gyomei and Mitsuri.

Obanai nodded, Following after her as they approached the other Hashira in conversation.

"The issue is.. I'm not quite sure what do to with her."

"Keeping her here sounds horrible though.. My heart hurts thinking about it!"

"Mmph!"

"Ah, I see that you're discussing what to do with the eavesdropper!" Shinobu chirped in as she peered in behind Gyomei's back, Glossy eyes resting upon the terrified shrine maiden who squeaked once Shinobu revealed herself.

"Ah.. Shinobu-san. We're not in agreement as what to do.." Gyomei states. "I suggest that we leave her here for the inns keeper to find while we leave.. Though on the other hand, Kanroji-san believes that would be inhumane.."

"Cause it is! Who knows how long she'd be here, What if the innkeeper doesn't even find her?" Mitsuri butted in as she gestured to Maika, A puzzled frown across her face.

Shinobu nodded.

"I see.. Well I was thinking of heading out soon, Since everyone's here now. So I would like it if you came to a decision soon enough!" She hummed with a smile as Obanai appeared from the other side of Gyomei.

He huffed.

"Though I dislike this plan altogether.. I would rather it go smoothly if I am meant to do it so.. I say we toss her in the near river with her hands and legs still tied."

"Iguro-san!"

"Mmph! Mmph!" Maika muffled out what sounded like hearty disagreement, Eyes bulging out of her sockets as she stared at Obanai like he was some kind of demon, Even more so when Kaburamaru began to hiss.

Shinobu sighed as she stepped forward, Kaburamaru snapping his jaw shut once he watched her approach Maika. Knees bending as she lowered before her.

With a smile, Shinobu ripped off the bandage covering Maika's mouth.

"Ah-!" Maika gasped for what seemed like the biggest breath she had ever taken. "P-Please don't kill me! I can explain why I was listening to you're conversation, I swear!"

"Then explain.." Gyomei said, Looking rather imposing to where the girl was sat on the floor.

"O-Okay.. Erm- Give me a second I.." Maika blinked, Trying to recompose herself. "I didn't come here to tell anyone about what you were doing.. I.. I actually came because I wanted to help."

"How can we tell that you're not lying to get out of a bad situation?" Obanai asked as his eyes narrowed on her.

Maika gulped.

"B-Because I wanna help [F/N]-sama. I overheard your conversation back at the butterfly mansion, About the plan to find out where she was. I.. I wanna help, [F/N]-sama was really kind to me and I feel bad.." She said, Her eyes shying away from the group and she stared to the floor, Still shaking.

She inhaled.

"I.. I feel like it's my fault that [F/N]-sama was kidnapped. She saw me during her fight with that demon and she held back so I wouldn't get hurt.. She made sure he wouldn't find me, Even after I was injured and I just don't think I could live with myself if she stayed missing.. "

"Even though I'm a shrine-maiden.. I'm also a licensed slayer.. S-So please! If it's not a bother.. Could I please go on this mission?" Maika asked just a little bit higher than before, Sweat rolling down her brow, The fear of being rejected burning through her body.

Her lip shook.

Ever since that day in the shrine, Ever since she had woken from that coma, Maika had felt horrible about herself. To think that it was she that got [F/N] in such a bad situation, The guilt Maika felt was indescribable.

No one spoke, Not for a good long while. Their eyes darted back, Trading looks speaking their own thoughts about the situation. Iguro and Shinobu seemed rather cautious and Gyomei seemed to wait for the opinions of the others before he weighed in his own.

It was Mitsuri whoever who decided to take action, Stepping forward towards Maika before kneeling down towards her. A smile brighter than the sun outside as she grasped onto her hands.

She squealed.

"Kyah~! Of course you can come along, Anyone who wants to help, Should help!" Mitsuri grinned as she held Maika's hands within her own, Grasping them warmly as the girl looked up at the woman with a rather shocked blush burning on her face.

"K-Kanroji-sama!" She stammered.

Gyomei stepped forward.

"Are you sure about this, Kanroji-san..?" He asked as he heard their interaction, Hands still in prayer.

"Yes, One hundred percent! Let's go now, Get everyone ready. Heihachiro-san can come with us!" Mitsuri said as sure as she had ever been as she looked back at him, A massive smile on her face. Shinobu stepped forward.

"Well.. If Mitsuri-chan trusts her, Then I suppose I do too!" She cheered, Smiling slightly as she turned towards the rest of the Hashira. "Get ready and discard your slayer uniforms! We'll head for the convent in half an hour."

"Ah.. I suppose I shall be making my leave then.." Gyomei remarked as he wandered past the group, Assumedly to grab his luggage and make his goodbyes before he heads back to his estate.

Shinobu followed him off, Going to tell the group of younger slayers at the table the same news. Mitsuri quickly untied the ropes around Maika's wrists and ankles, To whom thanked her and stretched her tired limbs.

Mitsuri gave a 'no problem' in reply and raised from her position, Turning back to look at Obanai.

"Isn't this great, Iguro-san? I know we're all going off to fight an Upper Moon, But I'm still happy to be able to spend it with all of you!" She cheered with a smile, Looking at Obanai.

He swallowed, Feeling exposed all of a sudden.

"I.. Suppose." Obanai said as he tossed his head to the side, Choppy black bangs covering his red hot face as he turned away from Mitsuri.

Her brow raised.

"Ehh..? Are you okay, Iguro-san? Are you feeling alright, Your face is pretty red!" Mitsuri observed, Stumbling forward as she spotted a hint of burning blush on his face. Obanai huffed, Stumbling back from her.

"I feel fine, Thank you for your concern. We should get going soon." Obanai blurted out as he began to walk away, Leaving a confused Mitsuri watch him go. Mitsuri hummed, Acknowledging the situation.

"Kanroji-san.."

Mitsuri turned her head, As soon as Obanai left, She heard the voice of Gyomei Himejima beckon her over from the other side of the room. He was stood tall, Seemingly preparing the luggage for his departure.

"Oh.. Himejima-san!" Mitsuri called back with her smile reappearing on her face, Not wasting any time to skip over to where Gyomei stood with a . "I guess you'll be leaving now, It's a shame that you won't be able to come along with us!"

Gyomei nodded slightly,

"Yes, It is.. However I just wish to speak with you for a slight second before I leave.." He asked cordially, Stepping closer towards Mitsuri. "It is about my Tsuguko, Himejima Shizuko."

"Shizuko..?" Mitsuri mumbled under her breath, A bell ringing in her head. It wasn't long before her eyes widened however, Shoulders tensing up. "You mean [F/N]'s brother..?! He's here..?!"

Mitsuri's head instantly shot back and forth, Eyes scanning everyone in the room.

"Correct, He was the one I decided to summon after all.." Gyomei replied, Fairly confused as to how Mitsuri hadn't noticed the boy beforehand.

Mitsuri quickly spun around towards the table where everyone sat, Eyes darting through the little crowd. It seemed like they were all getting ready to head off, But from amongst the group Mitsuri could spot a certain mess of hair.

Wide eyes, Scars, Rough braided hair.

Her breath caught in her throat.

"Oh my gods, That's where I recognise him from-! How did I not see it before..?!" Mitsuri gasped as she watched Shizuko put away his things, Barely held back from rushing over to greet him.

"Kanroji-san." The rumble of Gyomei's voice made Mitsuri double take, Turning her head back around to meet his solemn face.

"I came to ask that you do me a favour, By telling Shizuko about [F/N] and his past during this mission.."

"What..?!" Mitsuri gasped, Her eyes growing wide as saucers.

"He has not forgotten her entirely, It seems.. Only a few days ago he had admitted there were some surviving memories from his accident." Gyomei explained.

She shook her head slightly, Almost unbelieving.

"No way.. He actually.." Mitsuri mumbled under her breath, Seemingly collecting her thoughts before speaking once more. "I told this to you, I don't know the full story.. I.. I couldn't give him all the answers even if he did know."

Gyomei shook his head.

"But you know the most out of us all.. And it is right that he knows what you do, At the very least.. I am not the right person, You are." He said, Nodding in her direction.

Mitsuri just looked at him, Mind racing.

Mitsuri couldn't believe what she was hearing, What she thought was just going to be a farewell turned out to be much more than she was bargaining for. It was shocking enough to hear that Shizuko actually remembered something.

But for Mitsuri to also be given the duty of explaining said something? Even more unexpected. Her face turned into a rather apprehensive frown, Lips pressed tightly together.

"Himejima-san.. I understand what you mean but- You can't just leave me with this I mean.. I've never even spoken to him before.. And [F/N].. She herself said it was for the best if they were kept apart!" Mitsuri hushed under her breath, Pleading with him both in her tone and her eyes.

Gyomei nodded slowly, His brows knitting together in a sorrowful expression.

"You are right, I am deeply sorry for leaving you with this.. But he has the right to know, Just not from me." He explained, Hearing the rough voice of his Tsuguko in the background. "For whatever reason [F/N] wished to stay apart.. I believe that is not truly what she wants."

"I.." Mitsuri thought over his words, Ones that struck a cord within her. Mitsuri knew she didn't know the full story, But she knew [F/N] down to the atom, And her wanting to stay away from Shizuko?

Yeah, That wasn't like her at all.

"You're right. [F/N].." Mitsuri stumbled over her words, Shaking her head. "Just.. All I want is some time, Okay? I'll tell him but.. I'll need to put a few things together first, Just make sure everything is understandable."

Gyomei nodded, The expression on his face lightening ever so slightly as he turned around towards his luggage laid out in a satchel. Picking it up and tying the knot.

"Thank you, Kanroji-san.. This means a lot, Both to me and I leave him in your care.. I trust you will keep him safe." Gyomei said, Slinging his satchel over his shoulder before bowing towards the woman. Mitsuri copied his actions, Lowering down herself.

"You can trust me, I promise Shizuko will be safe.." Mitsuri said, Politely yet quietly so that no one could hear them. Gyomei raised from his bow, Settling his yukata over his chest once more before grasping onto his satchel.

They said their goodbyes, And the rest of the group did the same. As Gyomei was walking out, None of the crowd noticed the new air around him and Mitsuri, Some mutual feeling like understanding shared between the two.

Mitsuri sighed once he left, Another task put on her roster along with finding out what was wrong with Shinobu. She couldn't argue however, It was much better to deal with this than let it go untouched.

Mitsuri had learnt that the hard way.

So she turned, Prancing back towards the group to help the rest of them pack their stuff for the journey ahead. She had a smile on her face, No matter how terrifying the situation was about to be.

☆♡☆

[F/N] was left sitting on her bedside, Head dropped, Hands in lap as she tried to mull over what happened.

A sort of disgusting shiver wormed through her system as she remembered his aura, Not to mention their conversation. His behaviour too was particularly unpinnable, [F/N] having no idea why he's acting repulsed to her attempts to talk to him.

It was Kokushibo after all who encouraged this behaviour in the first place, And she was trying her best to play into it best she could. Yet he seemed so opposed to it, Perhaps even a bit aggressive when she admitted she wanted to speak to him.

Why?

There was no point in trying to unravel his behaviour, [F/N] supposed. She hadn't been able to do it before so there was no way she'd ever be able to, Not right now at least.

All [F/N] knew was that she hated him. That he was a centuries old demon with violent instincts, That he had siphoned her away to some mockery of her now defunct shrine. [F/N] knew that he was a horrible person.

Her teeth gritted.

She couldn't stay here, She couldn't bare to be in this decrepit shrine any longer.

[F/N] pushed herself off of the bed, Pins and needles in her legs not bothering her as she turned back and kneeled down so far, Face peeking under the bed.

The ropes.

[F/N] needed to get to work, Right away. Hands lunged under the bed, Snatching the thick spool of unassorted ropes in a single palm as she pulled them out. She needed to start making her way through the infinity castle if she wanted to find the exit door.

"[F/N]!"

A voice called out from somewhere down the hallway, It was Akaza's, About time that he'd show up since Kokushibo had left a good few hours ago. [F/N] paid no heed however as she lugged herself back up onto her bed, Spools of rope in hand.

She set them down on her lap as the door slid open.

"[F/N], You awake?" Akaza called out into the room, Though his question was instantly answered as he watched her begin to play with the ropes in her hand from within the darkness.

"Yep, Wide awake. Had a rather eye-opening conversation with you-know-who earlier and I haven't been able to get them closed since." [F/N] replied but she didn't look at him, Instead beginning to find the ends of two rope to tie.

Akaza's face scrunched up, Golden eyes glowing in the dark.

"Seriously? You actually had a conversation with him?" He scoffed slightly.

"I'll tell you about it if you lend me a hand, We're gonna work on the rope."

"Deal. Though I'm relieved you finally decided to start working on your escape, It was starting to get annoying.." Akaza muttered as he walked forward towards her in the dark, Lunchbox in hand. "Good timing though, Was able to bring you in a few tools for the nails or whatever."

Akaza held up the lunchbox in hand, Presenting it as something more that cutlery rattled around inside. A hammer, By the sounds of it. The spare nails laying around under her bed would finally be put to use.

[F/N] didn't smile, But a glint in her eyes spoke more than she could ever say. Looking up towards Akaza, She spoke.

"Perfect."

☆♡☆

They were high up, Thousands of feet above the air.

Clouds were below them now, Like a ring surrounding the horizon. The sky fading from a desaturated baby blue to a vibrant burst of yellow now that the clock was ticking. Winds were high, Not as much as to cause resistance, But enough so that fabrics and hair would dance violently in the gales.

It was chill too. Snow dusted the glaciated landscape like sand across a desert. From towering pine trees and bustling ferns and sprigs, Slush ice lain in the nooks and crannies' of every single one.

They trudged through the pebblish pathway up the mountain, Mitsuri often gazing out into the expanse of the valley like ants below. The air flourishing up here, So fresh that she couldn't help but take it all in.

Her eyes shone, The blinding sun reflecting in her irises.

"Come on now! We're almost there!" Shinobu called out, Her voice echoing slightly as they neared the grassy top of the mountains. It had been a few hours, If they weren't trained swordswomen, They would've taken much longer in accountancy of breaks.

Mitsuri turned to her, Guiding her hair out of the way as she smiled.

"Right! Let's get a move on, Girls!" Mitsuri called out to the two girls behind her, Kanao and Maika who had issues with keeping their hair out of their faces as well. They nodded, Picking up the pace as they pushed themselves up the slope.

They had decided to split up, The men approaching where the convent should be in a different direction. They had figured that going in one big group would be rather suspicious, And according to Shinobu's plan mixed with Gyomei's information, It was best split by gender.

Kanao had Nezuko's box resting on her back, Kanao's hands resting on the straps to makes sure it stayed steady on her back. Apparently the cult had some rather interesting gender dynamics, Having the women rest and leisure while the men were put to work.

It was strange, Shinobu could tell.

"U-Um-! Can we take a break, Please?" Maika called out to the two women in front of her who had already reached the rather dense woodland atop it all. Shinobu looked at her for a second, Smiling before Maika reached the top.

"Ah.. I suppose A break would be fine. Though not for long as we need to stay vigilant, Being in one spot for too long would be dangerous, I deem." Shinobu deduced as she turned to look at the breath-taking sight beside her, Barely batting an eye as she stared out into the expanse.

Mitsuri huffed as she stopped to stretch her numb legs, Feeling the cold air soak into her skin. She stood next to Shinobu, Taking in the sight together. Something rewarding after the trek up her.

She smiled, Remembering how much times she had to pop her ears.

"Beautiful, It's a pretty nice change from the village scenery, Eh? Not saying that it was bad but.. Come on, Look at that sky~!" Mitsuri wondered with a smile.

"Yes, I agree. Almost makes it worth the journey.." Shinobu spoke with a smile.

They took a moment to breathe it all in, Gaze off onto the horizon of bursting hues, A good reward for their trek up here. They didn't speak for a while, Letting the wind chill their sweat and cool them off.

Mitsuri smiled.

"This reminds me of the golden days, You know?" She spoke softly, Eyes finally peering over to Shinobu.

"Hm?" Shinobu hummed, Turning to look at Mitsuri.

"Oh come on. Me, You and [F/N]?" Mitsuri giggled slightly, Memories coming back to her. "Remember when we travelled around slaying demons together when we were younger? It's just kind of been a while since we've been on a mission together.."

Shinobu's smile, Mitsuri never noticed but it changed, Just a little bit more.. Real.

"Remember when we had to disguise ourselves as men to sneak into that nobleman's dinner? Ah.. I remember you had to put on that masculine voice. You know, I'm pretty sure you scared some of the poor Geisha serving us." Shinobu asked, A hand covering her teasing smile.

"Ah-! Don't remind me, That was so embarrassing!" Mitsuri laughed as she fanned her cheeks. Shinobu giggled. "I guess it was pretty fun, Though! Honestly I think about it more than I should.. I guess I miss it, You know?"

Shinobu nodded, Agreeing with her statement. Her smile dimmed just a little bit, However the genuinity never died.

"If only [F/N] didn't fall into that coma.." Shinobu mumbled, Eyes looking somewhere far off.

"If only we didn't go to that festival." Mitsuri corrected, The smile dimming on her face until it darkened into a frown.

The silence afterwards was much more dense than before, Neither of the girls feeling it was right to speak. Mitsuri felt awkward under the weight of the silence, Her hands coming together to fiddle with her fingers.

Looking at Shinobu, Mitsuri could see her mind work through her eyes. It was obvious from the meeting back at the butterfly mansion that this mission meant a bit more to Shinobu than she was letting on.

And they were about to go fight Upper Moon Two, Well, They weren't quite sure how long it would take to get to that point. But Mitsuri could tell something was wrong with her, And she needed to know what.

She sighed, Air turning to vapour.

"Shinobu-chan.."

Mitsuri finally broke the silence, Shattering like glass.

Shinobu turned her head back to look at her, Small frown still on her face.

"You know I've been meaning to talk to you for a while now, And.. I feel like it's best to bring this up before we leave, You know?" Mitsuri spoke as soft and caring as she could muster, Her eyes shining as she turned to look at her peer.

Shinobu's lips turned back up into a tight smile, A twitch in her eyebrow, Glancing back towards Mitsuri.

"Mitsuri-chan, Whatever this is about, I think it's best if we save it for later." Shinobu responded, Her voice sounding like it had been practiced. "We've spent too much time in one place, We better get movi-"

"No-!" Mitsuri cut in, Realising her tone she shook her head. "I'm sorry, Shinobu-chan. But I know you've been avoiding this conversation for a while now, I want to talk, You need to tell me what's wrong."

Shinobu's smile widened as she fully turned to meet Mitsuri, A noticeable strain on her lips as she beamed at her.

"..There's nothing to speak about, Mitsuri-chan! I'm completely alright, Perhaps a bit stressed.. Maybe that's what you're worried about?" Shinobu proposed, An eyebrow raised as she tilted her head.

"No, It's- It's more than that, I can tell!" Mitsuri exasperated, Her face turning more concerned by the second. "You need to say what's going on, You've not been yourself recently.. Please, You can talk to me!"

Shinobu's stare burned into Mitsuri like the sun glaring into vision. Mitsuri watched as Shinobu just stopped entirely, Her smile still plastered on her face, Making no move to speak.

Fingers curling, A vein in her forehead. Like a porcelain doll, It was if she needed time to process Mitsuri's words.

It was disturbing, Seriously distur-

"Greetings, Is anyone there?"

Heads jerked towards the source of the new voice, Belonging to none within the designated group.

By the edge of the forest-line stood a woman accompanied by a child, Both adorned in white robes. The women cradled a wicker basket in her hand, Half full with what seemed to be the fruit that grew here.

The child held one too, Both looking at the group of girls before them.

The smell of Lotus Flowers burned in the air, Noticeably so.

"Ah..! Greetings, Ma'am! We didn't think anyone would be out here!" Shinobu giggled, Readily stepping away from Mitsuri and towards the woman and child duo instead. "My name is Fujimori Hina, I apologise if we startled you!"

The woman watched as Shinobu lowered down into a respectful bow, Her eyes seemed apprehensive as they darted amongst the newcomers before her. Shinobu could spot the child shifting behind the woman, His eyes wide as he stared.

The woman's lips turned into a smile, Though it was very much faked.

"Ah.. No, I had just heard voices and thought it was best to come check it out." The woman explained, Examining Shinobu from head to toe. "What are you all doing up here..? This is rather far from the nearest village.."

Shinobu raised from her bow to see the woman, Suspicious already even with that kind smile, Shinobu could tell. The child behind her seemed rather hesitant towards them, Almost as if they were an oddity.

Shinobu nodded, Shooting a look towards Mitsuri that spoke plenty.

"We got lost, You see.. We've been meaning to head to Fukushima however our ride broke down and left us stranded!" Shinobu frowned and shook her head, An unfortunate expression on her face. "We figured we could find a village from this vantage point.. However it seems the one down there is a rather long journey.."

"Y-Yeah! It's been a while since we've ate is all.. " Maika piped up from where her and Kanao sat on the floor, Voice shaking, Eyes trained on the woman and her rather odd appearance.

The woman nodded slowly.

"Ah.. I understand. And you all are.."

"-They're my sisters." Shinobu finished. "And yes, Adopted before you ask. I realise we do not look similar, We get that question a lot." She laughed airliy, A smile reappearing upon her face.

"Umeko." Mitsuri said, Raising her hand to greet her.

"Asuna..!" Maika chimed in.

"Kariya." Kanao spoke.

"Right.. I see." The woman drawled, Eyes narrowing. For some reason she was suspicious, Rather apprehensive to the women she came across. "I suppose that you better start moving, It is a rather long journey to the village.."

The woman spoke, A sort of politeness in her voice that was. She almost looked like she was ready to leave, Prepared to grab the child by the wrist and beckon him off into the forest.

Acting quickly, Mitsuri stepped forward.

"Please, Ma'am. We don't mean to trouble you.. But is there anywhere we could stay for tonight?" She begged, Both in voice and her eyes. "We promise to repay you..! We just want somewhere to rest for a while, A bit of food and someplace to pray."

Mitsuri's tone pleaded with the woman, Who still looked rather apprehensive towards the group. Mitsuri, Though a little annoyed that she was cut off from reaching Shinobu, Still grasped the situation. Seeing how the woman appeared aloof.

Though her eyes shifted once the word prayer came from Mitsuri's tongue, A glint like stars in her irises.

They all waited on baited breath, One's they didn't know they were holding. Both Mitsuri and Shinobu both knew that this was no ordinary woman, Both by looks and by her actions. What reason she had to be suspicious, A dead give away.

Would she respond in kind or in aggression? Did she know they were slayers?

The woman breathed out.

"..Well, I suppose that it is only right if I help out my fellow women of faith." The woman smiled, Much more genuine this time. Shinobu's ears twitched at the word 'faith', Her eyes narrowing as the woman stepped towards them.

A wave of relief flooded amongst the group, Shoulders slumping, Held breaths released from lungs. The woman stepped to the side, Child following after her as she beckoned the group to follow her.

"You can follow me, I'm sure I can get you all fed and cared for. You're lucky..! Fortunately around here, We always make sure to tend to our fellow faithful." The woman smiled as she turned, Basket in hand as she began to wander off into the woods.

"Of course, Thank you so much, Ma'am! We appreciate it so much..!" Shinobu thanked her, Bowing her head lightly before taking the first skip to follow the woman. Mitsuri following after, The girls coming last.

They followed her, Trailing along her pathway through the tall forest she came from. The child skipping ahead, Seemingly not wanting to be near the group of girls.

Looks shared between them spoke more than what they could say. Looks of suspicion and fear, While Mitsuri and Shinobu's seemed much more steady as they walked. They both knew that this woman had to be associated with the cult.

Especially with the way she said 'faith'.

Some woman with some pungent scent. It wasn't bad, Per se, But it was strong. It was like freshwater and flowers, So freezingly refreshing yet bitter all the same. Her clothes were pure, No blemish to be found upon the dove white of her kimono.

It was like wedding attire, Was she going to be wed?

It looked so, Everything about her seemed perfectly done. Her hair was midnight yet glistened under the mountain sun, Her makeup could put the most gorgeous Oiran to shame..

It was strange, So beautifully strange.

So they followed along, Both hesitant and eager at the same time. Forest growing darker as they walked, More dense, Deeper and deeper they went.

And the smell of Lotus Flowers grew so much more potent.

Next Chapter

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trancylovecraft · 2 months

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(KNY) YANDERE PLATONIC! KOKUSHIBO x SISTER READER: You, Shibou. I, Kokoro (CHAPTER NINETEEN)

Previous Chapter ☆♡☆ Masterlist ☆♡☆ Next Chapter

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CHAPTER NINETEEN: "Your act is a ruse."

A cult is a group requiring unwavering devotion to a set of beliefs and practices which are considered deviant outside the norms of society, which is typically led by a charismatic and self-appointed leader who tightly controls its members.

SLASH!

The demons head was swiftly removed from it's neck, A splatter of blood erupting from the stump as the head hit the forest floor.

It hit the ground hard, Bouncing once, Twice and a final third before it rolled away into the nearby shrubbery, Bound to burn up into nothing but sundust.

It was killed in an instant.

In a blink of an eye it.. It was dead..

The girl was sat within the clearing of the forest, Fallen to the ground and her body beaten up from the attack. Her slayer uniform was ragged, Torn at the edges and covered head to toe in filth, A mixture of grime and blood staining on the fabric.

Blood dripped down her forearm. Haori sleeve rolled up to get a view of the monstrous bite mark now embedded into her skin, With entire intent to have ripped off flesh from her bones and scarf down the rest.

Shinobu's breath was rapid and ragged, Chest going up and down with her heart racing miles an hour. Adrenaline still coursed through her punctured veins, Not yet worn off from the promise of death that gone unfulfilled.

Eyes turned up to the girl that prevented it.

She stood there like an Onna-musha of old, The moonlight graced by her figure. The luminosity rolled down the reflective edge of her blade, Barely even coated in the blood of the demon she had slayed.

Shinobu's breath was caught in her throat, Watching as her dragon blue haori danced in the midnight breeze. Enraptured in her form as she turned around, Eyes like spotlights meeting with Shinobu's.

"Are you alright?"

Her voice just as resonating as she was.

"Y-Yes.. I'm fine, I.. I'm alright." Shinobu stammered out as she steadied herself, Grasping at clumps of grass below her. Shinobu watched as the girl walked towards her, A strange looking sword sheathing into a hilt.

"Your arm.. It's injured." The girl observed. She bent down and Shinobu stifled a gasp once the girl grasped her arm, Gently raising it to examine the bite-shaped puncture marks in her skin. Watching the blood trickle down from the wound.

Her eyes narrowed.

"A close call, I'm sorry we didn't get here sooner.. Do you have any medical supplies on you?" She asked simply as she reached out towards the wound, Her eyes unaverred, Almost as if she hadn't slaughtered that demon like it was nothing only a few moments ago. Shinobu raised a finger, Pointing towards her satchel lain only arms-length away.

"I-In my bag, I keep supplies on me at all times.." She sputtered as her arm was let go of, Watching as the girl reached out over to her satchel and begin to shuffle through the compartments.

She fished out bandages, A cloth and cleaning alcohol. Shinobu knew very well that she could've tended to herself, But she found herself unable to do something as the girl dampened the cloth with alcohol and began to press it onto the wound.

"Ah!" Shinobu gasped, Body jerking from the sudden burning sensation on her arm.

"Sorry.. I should have warned you." The girl apologised, Pausing momentarily. She only continued once Shinobu gave her the go ahead with a small nod, Letting her continue to disinfect the wound with the cloth.

Shinobu stiffened as it ran across her skin, Though much more delicately this time. The girl glanced back up towards Shinobu, Examining her face.

"My name is Fujimori [F/N]. Your name is Kocho Shinobu, Am I right?" [F/N] asked as she cleaned away the ichor. Her other hand steadied Shinobu's arm, The warmth of her palm radiating nothing but unusual comfort to Shinobu.

It was almost enough to make her calm down entirely.

That otherworldly warmth.. Shinobu almost leaned into it.

"Yes, That's right.. I remember you and that other girl from final selection.." Shinobu confirmed, Recalling her face from only a month ago when they had passed the final selection.

How could she not? [F/N] that other girl had wiped the board. Most, If not all demons in there were slaughtered by them and them alone.

"How did you do that- You.. You decapitated it so fast." Shinobu muttered to herself, Memories rushing back to her of that night in Final Selection. How the burning scent of demonic ash flooded the air, How the very person bandaging her arm had emerged from the wisteria scented by the overwhelming tinge of demonic blood.

Shinobu's breath was caught as [F/N] began to open up the roll of bandages, Humming.

"It was distracted by you and I had a pretty good angle, I guess." [F/N] said as she began to bandage up the bitemark on Shinobu's arm. Shinobu shook her head.

"That's not what I.." She trailed off, Her voice dying down at the pain of her wrenching heart. That demon almost killed her because of Shinobu's stupid emotions, They were what had almost lead her to her grave.

"Any other demons in the area?"

"A-Another inside the house, I think.. I didn't get too good of a look."

"Alright. Any other slayers with you that we should know of? Any slain?"

"N-No.. I came out here on my own. This.. This isn't an official mission."

"Any family we can get you back to?"

"No.. Not anymore."

[F/N]'s steady eyes softened, Just a little bit.

"I see." She said, Continuing to bandage her arm.

Kanae.

Kanae, Her older sister. It hadn't been long since Shinobu watched her bleed to her death, Not long since Shinobu screamed and wept over her corpse, The breaking sun shining on her listless face.

Her hand had gone limp in hers, Her eyes loosing that shine that looked at Shinobu so brightly before. Shinobu had been so distraught, So destroyed by her death.. She should've known that her emotions were gonna cloud her judgement.

Lead her here, All for some stupid form of vengeance.

"There you go, All done.." [F/N] said as she finally finished bandaging Shinobu's arm, Letting go of it to let Shinobu get a look at the treated limb. "You shouldn't go hunting demons without anyone aware of where you are, Don't do it again, Okay?"

Shinobu nodded, Her eyes trailing away from [F/N]. How stupid she was.. She wasn't thinking logically.

"I-I understand, Thank you for bandaging my arm.."

"Heeeey~!"

A high pitched voice echoed out from behind them.

Shinobu's eyes widened, Peeking behind [F/N]'s figure to see a girl prancing out of the busted down door of the house, The one the demon had previously resided in. She was flailing around a blood speckled sword in the air, A goofy smile plastered on her face.

She had hair the colour of strawberries, Both cap and flesh. Her cheeks chubby and rosy, There was no doubt about who she was.

"I got the demon inside the house! Did you get the one- Oh!" Mitsuri skittered to a halt once the chartreuse of her eyes landed on Shinobu's crumpled figure, Her shoes causing digs in the ground as she stopped infront of her.

There was a glint in her eyes, That smile she wore widened.

"You're Kocho Shinobu, Aren't you?" Mitsuri gasped, Her cheeks growing a hotter shade as she looked down at her.

Shinobu blinked, Nodding slowly.

"Y-Yes-"

"-Oh my gosh, I'm Kanroji Mitsuri!" Mitsuri exclaimed, Accidentally cutting her off as she waved to Shinobu. Mitsuri spun on her heal to face [F/N] who stood awkwardly off to the side. "We saw her at Final Selection, Didn't we, [F/N]?"

"Yeah, She was there." [F/N] responded, Nodding curtly as she watched the exchange between the other two.

"Of course, I knew it..! Oh my gosh, I could never mistake that haori!" Mitsuri beamed as she sheathed her sword, The one with blood still rolling down the tip to the edge. Shinobu shook her head.

"I-I'm sorry, I.. How did you both get here? I.. I wasn't aware there was any other slayers around.." Shinobu blurted out as her eyes shook, Just the same as her fingers as she grasped clumps of grass between them.

Mitsuri grinned.

"We saw you a little bit ago in the nearby village, It was complete coincidence that our mission was the same as yours!" Mitsuri explained airily, Ignorant to Shinobu's true intentions here. "You know we keep getting missions left and right with no break, Honestly! You should come along to see it sometime!"

Mitsuri gasped suddenly, Eyes widening that made Shinobu jump.

"Oh! That'd be so fun, It's just been me and [F/N]-chan for ages now, It'd be so nice to have another girl around!" Mitsuri clapped her hands, Glancing towards [F/N] who raised an eyebrow.

Shinobu's lips parted, Her jaw dropping. Was Mitsuri saying what Shinobu thinks she is?

"Wait, You want me to come with you..? Just like that? You don't even know me.. I.." Shinobu trailed off, Voice dying with her words. Her eyes were dead set on Mitsuri's who looked back at her with nothing but amicability.

"Of course you can come with us! It'd be fun and you can't keep going on solo missions, It's not safe!" Mitsuri exclaimed as she gestured towards Shinobu's injuries, Her wounded arm and the dirt across her face, Mitsuri looked at it with worry.

[F/N] 'hmphed' from the side, A sort of humour in her voice.

"Either run now, Or you're with us forever. Trust me, She's insistent." [F/N] mused from the side with a glint in her eyes, Watching as Mitsuri spun around to meet her eye.

"Hey! It's not like I'm forcing her!" She huffed, Shooting [F/N] a childish look.

Shinobu watched as the two girls began to bicker back and forth, Her heart still freshly thundering in her chest. Though she felt it begin to slow, Calming. Though the two girls in front of her fought, It seemed to soothe Shinobu's heart, If only a little bit.

She didn't know why, Maybe it was the simple silliness of such an argument, The light-heartedness simply being the confirmation that Shinobu was alive to see such a tone.

When offered, Shinobu gratefully took the hand that helped her up to her feet. That and the assistance when she found out her ankle was sprained, Both [F/N] and Mitsuri acting as crutches to hobble her to the nearby village for proper inspection.

Though Shinobu couldn't help but feel a little sorry, Sorry that the both of them had to hold her up by the armpits just to keep her steady, Sorry that if she was just a little stronger they wouldn't need to bother.

Come morning, Shinobu couldn't help but accept Mitsuri's offer, The one that asked if she would join them on their missions. Mitsuri seemed so excited to have another girl around, The joy near radiating off her.

[F/N] didn't seem to mind either, Even rather understanding when Shinobu held them back due to her dodgy ankle.

The both of them seemed like the golden standard to Shinobu, She didn't wanna let them down.

So when she was given the go-ahead from the village doctor, They set off down the pathway, Harked by the call of the crow to the next big thing. Shinobu trailed beside them, Skipping, Laughing, Contributing to the small talk.

She smiled too. One sweet, Disingenuous, Smile.

☆♡☆

"Hey.. Hey..! Shi- Hina, Are you okay?"

Shinobu blinked, Her eyes focusing back into reality.

Mitsuri's voice was full of concern as her eyes darted towards Shinobu, Her lips pursed together and a worried look shining in her eyes. Shinobu's expression was blank for a minute, Almost as if she was registering what Mitsuri was saying.

But she shook her head, Turning back to the path in front of her.

"I'm.. Sorry. I let my mind wander off again, How strange, That's unlike me.." Shinobu mumbled to Mitsuri, Who looked back at her with an unsure look in her eyes. Shinobu didn't mind it, Instead breathing in, The scent of Lotus growing ever more poignant.

They all continued on, Following on the trail of the woman that had came across them all. The one with the fruit basket swinging in her hands, The one dressed in all white with a kindly face to match.

She led them through the mountainside, Passing through the abundance of trees and frosted fernery. She guided them further and further into the maws of the woodlands where it got darker and darker, The sunlight barely peeking through the gaps in the leaves.

It was strange. Though the usual scents of melting snow and rife forest air were flooding their senses, A strange undercurrent of bitter lotus seemed to grow stronger and stronger with each passing step.

They were getting closer, Shinobu could tell.

That same scent was one she recognised. Not like the airy scent of the lotus blooming in a pond, Not like the subtle perfume [F/N] use to wear when she was still around- No.

It was the same smell that tinged the metallic scent of Kanae's blood when Shinobu came across her dying body.

She pursed her lips, Eyes narrowing just a touch as she followed on with the woman and her child.

No one dared to speak, No one had the guts to. Not even the usual chipper attitude of someone like Mitsuri was present in their midst, Instead a rather thick air surrounded them like a fog.

Kanao and Maika trailed behind them, Nezuko still safely nestled in the box that appeared to simply be luggage.

"We're getting closer.. Please, Keep in mind before you enter to cleanse yourself as soon as we get inside."

Shinobu's eyes widened along with the rest, The premises finally coming into frame.

And it was a temple.

A Buddhist temple with blood-red accents adorning the support beams, One's that held the tiled rooftops so high that they pierced through the spruce tree's surrounding it. The inside couldn't be seen too well, Stone-brick walls towered over the area like a pen, The inside unable to be seen even if Shinobu had stood atop Mitsuri's shoulders and then some.

The temple itself however could be seen along with the sister buildings surrounding it, All with tiles lining the rooves and the wafting smell of smouldering incense drifting out from the inside. Lotus, No doubt that had been where the scent was coming from. Mitsuri's nose twitched at it, Slightly.

Sunlight cracked through the leaves, Shining on the moss and growing sublimity within the cracks of the walls. Nature seemed to go wild here, Flowers flourished in alluring colours of flush and vivid bursts of rainbow.

Anthuriums among the ferns, Roses and hydrangeas among the gardenia's. Mitsuri couldn't deny that the revitalising air they gave off was calming, Neither could the rest of the girls approaching the tall gates only a good few metres away.

Shinobu however, She felt imposed by the sheer size of the place, Looking left and right she couldn't even see a corner in the stone fencing surrounding the area, Only view it disappear into the thick line of trees and shadow.

From inside they could hear far away chatter along with the sublime sound of sloshing waves, No doubt from a mountain river nearby.

It was.. Tranquil?

"Ah, I see you're interested in the architecture..!" The woman observed, Eyes darting over to Shinobu's wandering gaze. Her lips upturned. "While we do practice Buddhism here, Shintoism is also a firm core in our belief, So don't worry about differences in tradition and such.."

"I see.. I must say I am rather impressed by the construction!" Shinobu's smile returned to her face as she trailed along with the woman, Her eyes narrowing slightly. "It is rather large, Yes? I suppose it must've taken a long time to build.."

"Ah.. Yes, Though I wasn't here when our convent was first made.." The woman trailed off, A light smile on her face. "I suppose you may like to see some of the wonderous scenery inside, The ponds and the prayer hall's and the.. Oh! I seem to be rambling.. I suppose you may need to see on your way to meet our grace..!"

Mitsuri hummed from behind Shinobu, Her lips pursed.

"Our Grace..?" She questioned.

"Yes! It is important to make yourselves known to Our Grace, Tradition may I say.. If you are nervous I can assure you that he is upmost kind and welcoming." The woman praised, Her wicker basket swinging in her hand. "Of course, Folk of faith such as ourselves are to always be gracious to one and other, Even those who may not believe in our ways specifically.."

The person who must be in charge of this place, The ringleader running the circus. Shinobu had no idea who they could've been, However judging by the open communications with Hiyohara village it had to be assumed that they were charismatic.

Obviously, It fitted the profile of a cult leader anyways.

But for them to go be meeting with him, Some kind of glorified prophet? It made hearts drum in the group's chest, Just a little bit faster. The way she referred to them by 'Our Grace' certainly raised a few brows on cue.

"That's.. Lovely. It's nice that you have that sort of view..!" Mitsuri chimmed in, An awkward yet earnest smile on her face. The woman glanced back towards her, Nodding along to her words as she soaked them in.

She hummed.

"To be courteous and kind to others of faith, Even outside of our own community.. It is only apart of our good nature." The woman proclaimed softly, A sort of proud smile adorning her face.

Too proud, If you asked Shinobu. Who hummed politely as the woman spoke.

"And your own belief, This community.. What is it that you would call it?" Shinobu asked, Now walking next to the woman with an intrigued glint in her eyes. The woman glanced towards her child following beside her, Before looking back up with a soft expression.

"The Eternal Paradise Faith, That's what we call our doctrine.." She answered, Her voice prideful yet soft as she spoke.

The corners of Shinobu's lips twitched, Wrenching themselves into an even wider smile.

"What an interesting name.." She commented.

☆♡☆

"Kanae-nee..!"

The sun rose on the horizon, Cracking over the small town, Where the only thing heard was the strained cries of a young girl.

Shinobu collapsed onto the dirt pathway next to the crippled body of her older sister, Her hair splayed out and dampened with her own blood. Her eyes stared up towards the blue expanse above, Watching as the morning clouds drift away from her. A chilled breeze dusting her burning cheeks.

Shinobu grasped onto what she could of her older sister, Scalding tears bursting out from her eyes as she saw the blood pooling around her gut. Kanae barely registered her younger sisters presence, The delicate lavender of her eyes only now turning over to look at Shinobu.

A flicker still remained in them, One of recognition.

"Shinobu.. Y-You shouldn't be here, There's a demon.." Kanae sputtered, Blood spitting out of her mouth with each syllable, Her chest heaving with each breath. Kanae felt her head lifted and placed against a chest, An arm supporting her, A dull throb in her midsection.

Shinobu sobbed, Her eyes red and irritant as her hands ran over the wound.

"T-The demon's gone, Nee-chan- It's gone..! But you're wounded- Oh gods.. You're wounded!" She wailed. Hands twitching, Roaming, Mind racing as she tried to figure out what to do about her dying sister.

Every second it seemed like more and more blood spilled around her. Her uniform, Her hair, Her skin and her hands were all drenched in it. Looking down, Kanae's eyes narrowed.

"Ah, Would you look at that.." She stammered as she raised a hand towards her eyeline, Fingers shaking as she observed the strange red liquid trickling down them. Shinobu wept, Desperately begging, Praying, Trying to figure out what to do.

Kanae glanced towards her, The expression on her face softening as Shinobu sputtered out some string of words that Kanae just couldn't understand anymore.. Not over the ringing in her ears, Like resonating bells in a procession.

Kanae smiled, No matter how difficult it was to do now.

Shinobu was in pieces, Voices screaming across her mind. One wailing from her mind to her mouth, Another praying, Begging whatever god could be listening to save Kanae. And another- One screaming at her, Asking where her med kit was.

It was at home, Shinobu knew. It wasn't with her, Unable to be accessed.

Tears flooded down her face just a bit faster, Hands shaking as she let out choked cries.

"S-Stay with me..! You're gonna be okay, Nee-chan..! Backup is on the way.. I-It's on the way, I promis-"

Shinobu was cut off by the feeling of warm palms cupping her cheek, Weakly grasping onto them, Turning her to face Kanae. Shinobu found herself breathless once she saw her delicate expression, Peaceful, Comforting as she looked into Shinobu's eyes. She hummed.

"I-It hurts.. Shinobu, It hurts to see you frown like this.. Where is that smile I always loved..?" Kanae asked, Ichor trickling down her lips onto her chin, Lungs heavy and burnt. Shinobu could barely understand, Shaking her head.

"N-Nee-chan don't worry about me, You're bleeding out- You're injured-"

"I'm dying, Aren't I, Shinobu..?" Kanae cut in once more, Her ears ringing the ache in her gut. It was only now that tears began to speckle her eyes, Though the smile remained on her face, They dripped down her cheeks.

Shinobu couldn't answer her, Lips parted but no words emerged. It felt like too much, Heart ready to explode out of her chest as her eyes trailed back down towards her wound. Shinobu's breathing grew ragged, Wincing at the sight of her exposed flesh and pond of red within it.

How would she respond, How could she respond? There was no way she could have ever answered such a question, No matter how much time she was given. Shinobu wished she was given time, Time to think, Time to talk, Time for backup to arrive with the needed medical supplies to save her sister.

But the sun continued to rise over the horizon, The cool breeze continuing to run through the village streets.

And it continued to be silent. No footsteps rushing over to the scene, No yells of concern from the villagers or the backup that should have arrived by now. There was no one, Not even the demon that did this to her anymore, Just her and Shinobu.

She wept, Her voice aching as she spoke.

"..Who did this to you..?" Shinobu croaked, Gripping Kanae closer as she swept the matted hair out of her eyes. Her voice shook with both grief and rage, Grief at the sight and anger at the cause.

Kanae's eyes lowered, Her bloodied lips pursing.

"It.. It was a demon moon.. Upper Two, Y-Yes.. That was it." Kanae said slowly, A sort of sorrowed look running across her face. It was the first time Shinobu had seen such an expression on her sister's face, Such a sad little frown on her lips.

"I.. Upper Two.. Upper Two did this to you.." Shinobu accounted, Eyes searching, That sorrowed glint beginning to burn as she gritted her teeth. "Where did it go, Nee-chan, Where did it go..?!"

"It was so strange, Such colourful eyes.. Yet I saw no life behind them." Kanae recalled, Her brows furrowing as the memories flashed before her eyes. "It was sad.. I felt bad for him. He smiled and laughed like anyone else yet.. Such a pitiful existence, I couldn't imagine living like that.."

Shinobu couldn't comprehend Kanae's words, Just held her tighter. She was bleeding out, Her innards severed and her lungs aflame with frost.. Yet she felt bad for the demon, Felt pity for it-

Shinobu choked out another sob.

"N-Nee-chan.. Please.." She wheezed out as she felt the hands cupping her cheeks soften, Kanae's thumbs moving towards the corners of her mouth, Guiding them up until Shinobu was wearing a caricature of a smile.

"S-Shinobu.. Come on, Smile for me.. Don't look so sad, It doesn't suit you well.." Kanae whispered, Her fingers beginning to shake as she heard the ringing grow louder in her ears. The clouds in the sky drifting off further, The breeze on her skin no longer registering in her mind.

The thumbs holding up Shinobu's smile trembled, Shinobu's eyes widened.

"K-Kanae..?"

Her eyes, The light in them faded. Kanae just stared at her with nothing else to be found as her body went limp. A smile could still be found on her face, Blood staining her lips, The rising rhythm of her chest was no more.

"N-No.. NO!" Shinobu screamed as Kanae's hand fell to the ground, Her head fallen to the side. Shinobu hollered as she shook her body, Screaming, Crying, Bile rising at the back of her throat as she hollered out.

"K-Kanae- Don't leave me- Y-YOU'RE ALL I HAVE..! Kanae.. KANAE-!"

Footsteps could be heard pounding their way towards her, Rapidly hitting the ground but Shinobu couldn't hear them anymore over her wailing. She begged, Desperatley hollering out her sisters name.

Over and over like a mantra.

The smile remained on Shinobu's face. No matter how much retch fell down her chin, No matter how much it mixed with the saliva in her mouth as she screamed. It stayed firm where Kanae had fit it.

Like carved stone, It stayed etched.

No matter how much it cracked.

☆♡☆

Shinobu breathed out, A polished smile on her face as her eyes laid firm on the door in front of them.

They stood before a door unlike any other, Not like the usual Shoji used within the rest of the building they were lead into. It was made of actual firm, Polished wood that seemed scrubbed to shine like the ceramic pots surrounding it.

Shinobu had tried to peak behind the crack, However it was impossible to make out except for speckles of light and shadow from within. It left her with slight disappointment, Leaving her to step back and simply wait.

They had entered into the convent, The gates pulled open with a croak as they were lead through the courtyard. The woman was right when she said it was wonderous, The place was grand in design, Beautiful architecture spanning the entire grounds.

The pathways were stone and smoothened down, The tall buildings were decorating with talismans and statues: Maneki-Neko and Tanuki being a common design as they were littered across the decks.

People of all kinds roamed around the place, The population count of this place being higher than expected, Making the group share some looks. They all seemed to laugh, The women carrying baskets of fruit, The men hauling tools around their back as they bantered and children chasing each other in thrilling games of tag.

Shinobu had waved to one of them as they ran by, The smile on her face sharpening once they left.

But now?

The group had been led towards the main building, A tall construction that looked half-way between a Buddhist and Shinto temple. It had the imposing red arches leading up to the entrance, The rooves decorated in Omamori which was usually held on person, Now tangled from the edges like hanging wisteria.

It had spider legs expanding out from it, Running around the entire convent, Connecting to each sister building with long pillared pathways. Shinobu breathed out at the sheer size of it, Eyes narrowing.

How were they going to find the demon here?

As the group approached they were stopped by two monks, Both with shaven heads and dressed head to toe in a pure blinding white. The woman had walked up the leading stairs, Talking to them in a hushed whisper that Shinobu couldn't make out no matter how hard she tried.

Eventually they were let in, The monks parting as they were brought inside.

"Hina-chan.. What are we gonna do?"

That familiar voice cut through the air, Quiet but urgent.

"Go in, Greet the leader behind this place and then get to work." Shinobu responded, Her voice but a whisper in the air as she glanced towards Mitsuri. Mitsuri in turn frowned, However nodded and turned back to face the door.

Shinobu breathed out, Smile still remaining on her face. Maika and Kanao had been standing off to the side of the little waiting room they were brought into, Both sharing concerns and looks of their own.

Shinobu breathed.

It's not like this was going to be difficult, Shinobu told herself. Charming people was as easy as drawing a breath to her, It wasn't going to be tough to convince the leader to let them in, At least that's what she hoped.

CREAK!

The sound of a door opening rang out.

Bodies flinched at the piercing sound. Shinobu and Mitsuri had to quickly step a few feet back to avoid the opening doorway. Their eyes widened, Especially once a bald-headed monk stepped out the open-crack.

He cleared his throat, His kindly face observing them.

"Ah, Our guests.. All doing well I presume?" He began, A small smile on his face as he lightly bowed to each one of them. "Our grace is ready to meet you all.. I hope you are all ready to greet him?"

Shinobu and the rest of the group shared a look with each other before glancing back to the man.

"Of course..! We must thank him after all, He is giving us the time out of his assuredly busy day to hear our story..!" Shinobu smiled back at the man, Bowing her head slightly towards him. The man bowed back, Stepping further out into the room.

"Then I'll let you all through, Please, Be respectful once you enter."

With that the doors began to open.

A gust of wind hit their faces, Making them flinch slightly from the way it hit their eyes and moved their hair. Shinobu didn't have any time to focus as she was beckoned forward, The old monk guiding her and the rest of the group into the winding room waiting on the other side.

The lotus scent was almost unbearable here, A singe in their noses as they moved into the hall.

The entire area was lined with archways that reached the ceilings. Water rippling echoed out through the room, Flowing adjacent to the carpeted pathway they moved forward on. Shinobu's smile hardened.

And strangely enough.. It grew colder.

Like snow, The kind that burned at your skin and lingered on your shoulders even after stepping inside. It made a chill run down Shinobu's spine, Whose expression matched the frigid atmosphere around them.

Shinobu breathed out, Her eyes unfocused.

What was going o-

"Ah, Greetings to you all..! You are the travellers, Right?"

A voice called out to them, Echoing across the room.

Shinobu paused, Her eyes stinging from that putrid lotus that infested the air. The group around her- Mitsuri, Maika, Kanao- All of them going deathly silent. Shinobu subtly wiped away the tears boiling in her eyes.

Raising her head.

Heart pounding.

Breath stilling.

Eyes widening.

At the head of the room, Elevated above them on a cushion was a man unlike any she had seen before. Shinobu felt like time itself had stopped as her eyes examined him, Raking over him, Her heart near exploding inside her chest.

He lazed on the cushion like a resting lion, With a solid golden fan fluttering around his face aimlessly. He was dressed in the regalia expected of him. A black ribboned crown decorated in gold- Draped in a matching cloak over his shoulders-

"..You are the travellers requesting sanctuary, Are you not?"

Shinobu didn't hear that voice dripping in friendliness, Not over the ringing in her ears. She didn't focus on his pale hair, Or his even paler skin.

His eyes.

Such colourful eyes..

"…-We are! Yes, I'm sorry.. We're just a bit shaken from our journey- Your grace!" Mitsuri stepped forward, Her eyes darting back and forth between Shinobu and the founder. Her lips raised to form a smile, Bowing before him.

The rest of the girls followed her actions, Bowing down with her. The hand Mitsuri laid on Shinobu's back guided her down too, Her eyes connecting with Shinobu.

Shinobu.

She looked-

"Oh, I understand..! The area around here is quite difficult to navigate, You all must be very tired..!" The man proclaimed with a wide smile, The fan in his hand fluttering around. "Hm.. Not to mention the weather too.. I see.."

The man raised from his position on the cushion, His cloak sweeping behind him as he was gently brought to his feet. The group and the monks surrounding them watched as he bowed back towards them, That smile on his face remaining all the same.

"My name is Douma." The man, Now Douma said as he raised back up to his full towering height. The fan flicked over his mouth to conceal his amusement. "Though I hear you've already picked up on my title- How perceptive!"

Douma.

This man was no man- It was a demon- It was an Upper Moon, There was no doubt about it.

Mitsuri knew that Shinobu knew, She could see it on her face. Mitsuri swallowed, Her eyes filled with concern- Confusion- Fear- All mixed together as she observed the unforeseen reaction upon Shinobu's face.

But she swallowed back her emotions, A smile appearing on her face.

Mitsuri giggled a little, Trying to build some repour between the two.

"Ah- Yes..!" She responded as she happily brushed the hair out of her face, Trying her best not to freeze at the colour in Douma's eyes. Mitsuri raised from her bow along with the rest of the girls, All of them having varying looks on their faces.

Mitsuri swallowed, Her mind racing like a horse.

"..My name is Fujimori Umeko. Me and my sisters were travelling to Fukushima when our carriage broke down.. Ehm.." Mitsuri shook her head slightly, Trying to recollect her thoughts.

Instead she stepped a side, Gesturing to the rest of the girls

"My name's A-Asuna..!"

"..Kariya."

A moment of silence passed between them, Mitsuri glancing towards Shinobu.

"Hina..?"

Shinobu was breaking.

The look in her eyes didn't even seem human anymore, Akin to a body frozen in ice. The smile on her face was stretched to it's limits, Contorted over her muscles and flesh as she stared dead at the floor.

Sweat began to build on her forehead, A vein near popping in her brow. Mitsuri watched with widening eyes as her hand twitched, Reaching, Almost on instinct to the missing holder around her waist.

Douma's head tilted to the side, The fan spread across his face.

"Hina.. You.." Mitsuri's breath near caught in her chest, Her mind trying to comprehend what was happening. Never in her life had she seen Shinobu act like this, Never. Never this strangely- This different- Mitsuri felt like she'd stop working entirely.

Her eyes looked at the narrowing of Douma's, Fingers twitching.

Shinobu's mouth opened.

"Y-You're sick..!" Maika suddenly cut in, Quickly rushing to Shinobu's side. She rested a hand on Shinobu's forehead, Pretending to check her temperature with a skittish look upon her face. "Oh no.. She's burning up!"

Mitsuri blinked- Though quickly shook it off as she turned her attention back towards Shinobu.

"Oh my.. Do you think she caught something while we were travelling..!? It is rather cold outside!" Mitsuri quickly added as she moved a bit further in front of Shinobu, Trying to conceal the look displayed on her face.

They could hear Douma gasp, The fan flicking once more.

"Oh.. You poor thing..!" He exclaimed, His smile instantly turning into frown as he looked them over from where he stood above them. Mitsuri watched as tears already began to form in his eyes, Looking down at Shinobu like an injured dog.

"We.. We're so sorry. We had no idea that she came down with something!" Maika piped up, Her lips shaking as she spoke. "We.. had no idea"

"Oh- Hina.. It doesn't look like a regular cold..!"

"D-Do you think it's something else..? Oh my.."

"Hina.. You've always had such a weak heart..!"

Douma hummed, That expression of hurt and concern still lain upon his face as he stepped away and lowered back onto the cushion. He looked as if he was thinking, Almost processing their words with a heavy lump in his throat.

He listened to the girls converse, His frown deepening.

"Please.. It hurts my heart to see such pretty faces look so distressed!" Douma spoke, His hand raising over his heart, A frown still prominent on his face. All girls but Shinobu looked up at him, Their eyes flicking between each other. "What could I possibly do to assist.. I wonder.."

"W-We just ask if he could stay here- Just until our sister get's better..!" Mitsuri asked, Her voice dripping with desperation and need as she spoke.

Douma chuckled, Cocking his head to the side as his vivid eyes stared into them.

"Ah.. Of course, Who would I be if I did not assist those in need?" Douma spoke as his eyes lingered on Shinobu, Eyelashes fluttering as he rested upon his comfortable throne. "We have plenty of room here.. So I suppose it should be alright!"

Douma's eyes trailed over to some of the monks, The ones that were lingering in between the archways- He beckoned them forward with a single shake of his hand, Wiping away his tears with the other.

"Ah.. Please, Go prepare some of the guest rooms for our visitors..! Make sure to summon one of our doctor's too.." Douma ordered to which the Monks bowed, Turning towards the group of girls. Douma did the same, Looking at them with an understanding expression..?

"T-Thank you- Your grace, It means so much to us..! As soon as our sister gets better we'll get out of your hair..!" Mitsuri called out as the monks in white began to guide them back towards the doors, Shepherding them away, Though Douma's eyes continued to linger.

He giggled slightly.

"Oh no.. Feel free to stay here as long as you like! Enjoy the scenery- The art! Please, Treat yourself as if you're one of our own..!" Douma proclaimed with a smile, Hidden behind his shimmering fan as he watch them be pushed towards the door.

Shinobu could barely move herself, Only let her be dragged along by Mitsuri who tried desperately to keep her act up. Shinobu's fists clenched together, Knuckles almost bursting as she raised her head.

Shinobu gritted her teeth. Their eyes connected through the crack of the door, The one beginning to be pushed closed by the monks.

Douma smiled.

"Enjoy your stay here, Fujimori-san..!"

The door shut closed.

☆♡☆

"Damn.. I'm exhausted."

"At least the mission was easy, Yes~? No second demon to slay or lower moon to run into."

"I suppose so.. Still. I feel like I'm going to pass out at any moment."

The air was cool, The wind gently dusting across their skin, Leaving a faint chill in their wake.

The sky was a dark sea speckled with stars spanning the entire length, Clouds only daring to dust on the horizon now, Watching over the land so far below as the dots of village lights flared in the distance.

Two girls sat together on top of a mountain ledge, Not close to the ground but not yet touching the sky. They leant against the rough trunks of the tree's around them, Leaves swaying in the revitalising wind.

Shinobu's eyes looked out over the ledge, Her fuzzy eyes reflecting the moon and it's shine as she examined the far-away village. Her needle-like sword laid on her lap, Her hand grasping a cloth which she absentmindedly ran over the blade, Washing off the ichor.

[F/N] herself sat adjacent to her, Head resting back against the tree with her knees pulled up to her chest. Her dragon-blue haori flowed in the wind along with her skirt, A blank yet enraptured expression upon her face as she looked up towards the night sky-

Almost longingly.

"Mitsuri-chan should be back soon, So when she is we can start heading to the next village over and we can see if there's any food stalls open, Yes~?" Shinobu asked, Her eyes trailing towards [F/N] with a small smile on her face.

[F/N] nodded, Though her eyes never left the night sky.

"Sure, Sounds good.."

There weren't many words said after that. No, Instead the both of them sat in silence to examine the far off surroundings. Feeling as the wind danced across the entire area, From their hair to their haori's.

Shinobu breathed out for a second, The smile on her face lowering only slightly. Both of them felt rather exhausted, Especially due to the uptick in missions they've all been assigned- It seemed like nowadays they barely had any time to themselves.

Shinobu continued to wipe off what little blood was on her blade, Her eyes enraptured on the way in shone under the moonlight. The way the cloth moved against the nichirin felt practiced, Polished, Like she had done it a thousand times before-

When in reality Shinobu was barely ever able to pierce her blade through flesh, Wet the blade with blood and proclaim herself a completed bounty.

"Shinobu-san, Are you.. Okay?"

[F/N]'s eyes finally looked away from the night, Now staring into the eyes of Shinobu from where she sat. Her expression was softer, The stars above reflecting in the warmth of her eyes.

Shinobu blinked, The smile on her face raising once more as she glanced back towards [F/N]. The question made her cock her head to the side, Looking at her in confusion.

"..Of course I am, Why do you ask?" Shinobu responded as her voice rang out across the cliff's edge. [F/N] stayed quiet for a moment, Her eyes just resting on Shinobu's face, Almost examining it.

But she just slowly shrugged, Pulling her knees closer to her chest.

"It's just.. I have a kind of sense you know?" [F/N] admitted, Almost looking sheepish as she looked at Shinobu. "..I don't really know how to explain it, But I'm good at reading people I suppose. It might just be me, But.. You seem.. Angry, Maybe?"

As soon as the words left [F/N]'s lips, Shinobu stopped moving entirely. Her eyes didn't blink as she continued to stare [F/N] dead in the eyes, Though her own seemed blank, Smile still raised on her face.

But she collected herself soon enough, Blinking, Regaining her composure.

"..Where are you getting that from, [F/N]-chan? I'm not angry right now." Shinobu answered kindly, Keeping her head tilted to the side in question as she looked over at [F/N].

Of whom sighed, Scratching the back of her head.

"It's just.. I guess I can sense it, You know?" [F/N] admitted, Her eyes kept on her fidgeting fingers. "You ever get that feeling, The kind that you can feel throughout your entire body whenever you're around someone..? Like you can sense who they are- Or.. Maybe what they are, Do you know what I'm talking about?"

"No.. I don't think I do." Shinobu answered, Her voice gentle, An eyebrow raised only slightly.

"Oh.. I see." [F/N] muttered, Her knees kept close to her chest.

Shinobu hummed at her response, Eyes trailing back off to the far away specks of the village lights. Though her posture was relaxed, She breathed a little too much out into the air, Her jaw a bit stiff.

"So this sense you have.. It's telling you that I'm angry?" Shinobu questioned, Almost curious in tone.

"Yeah, It has been for a while now." [F/N] responded slowly, As if choosing her words. "I didn't want to ask in front of 'Tsuri, Because as much as she's our friend, She's.. Never really been the best with her words or.. Subtlety."

"Hm, I suppose you're right..!" Shinobu responded, Rather amused? "Mitsuri-chan always has been a bit.. Dramatic?"

[F/N] smiled slightly, Though it came off more awkward than it should have.

"You're my friend too, Shinobu-san. I want you to be happy, I.. Admire you and I only want you to be content with yourself.." [F/N] sighed as she spoke.

Shinobu's eyes however, Perked up.

"Wait- Wait.. You admire. Me?" Shinobu stammered slightly, Letting it slip through as she almost looked taken aback. Her eyes seemed to widen, Not daring to take them off the girl in front of her as if she had heard something.. Outrageous.

A sigh came out from [F/N].

"I mean, Yeah." She responded, As if she was pointing out something obvious. "You're smart, Smarter than I am. You make poisons that could kill so painlessly.. Or aggressively, All depending on how you choose. Besides. You're so good at talking to people, Honestly I wonder how you do it.."

[F/N] trailed off, Her words flowing out of her mouth until they could no more. Her eyes narrowed. Arms tightening around her knees. Shinobu couldn't even speak as she watched her head raise once more.

An awkward, Small smile on her lips.

"You don't need to tell me what's bothering you, Shinobu-san, But you don't need to tell me you're alright either.." [F/N] said, Her eyes connected with Shinobu's. "You're not alone. I know I'm not the best company, Not the best at words or.. Even just being a human being. But if I'm the best you've got right now, Then I'll do my best to listen. Only if you want to, Though.. Okay?"

Shinobu just looked at her, The breeze continuing to brush against her skin. Unblinking. Lips parted only by a slight. It was almost if the world slowed down even just a bit, Just sitting, Looking at each other from across the ledge.

Though Shinobu's eyes lowered, Her smile returning to her face. This time, Perhaps on it's own.

"..Mitsuri-chan is taking her time, Yes? We should go make sure that she hasn't gotten into trouble this time." Shinobu said with a hint of amusement in her voice, Her hand gripping her sword as she dusted herself off and began to get up.

[F/N] paused for a moment, But then nodded and followed her up.

"You're right. It's not like her to stay away this long.." She agreed as she adjusted the blue of her haori over her uniform, Tugged her skirt into place and settled her sword behind her back.

Both nodded, Beginning to make their way down the mountain. Both taking looks at each other when the other didn't.

No words were spoken, None were needed.

☆♡☆

"That was him, Wasn't it- Upper Moon Two..!"

The lotus smell festered like a plague in the air, Nipping at the eyes, The skin.

They had been lead through the halls of the convent, Through the shoji and the scenery. Past tapestries and talismans to be brought to a secluded section, Where they had been introduced to the sleeping quarters reserved for guests.

The group of four had been separated into two rooms, The monks then leaving them to go find a resident doctor for Shinobu's 'illness'. Mitsuri now stood off in the far corner of the room, Next to one of the two beds, Biting her nail in thought.

Mitsuri could barely understand what was happening. They had assumed that Upper Two had to have been feasting on the members, Perhaps was a sort of beast they had sacrificed their devout to- Something that could be considered common for demons, To find a supplying food source.

But for him to be the leader? A devout figure seen as nothing but good?

For him to be the demon, The Upper Moon Two-

"Shinobu-chan.. What.. What happened out there?" Mitsuri asked quietly, Her lips pressing together, Looking at the other woman from across the room with a hesitant eye.

Shinobu stood there at the far end of the room, One hand gripping the vanity, Facing the wall and staring dead into the wood. She just stood there, As still as the air around them. Mitsuri couldn't see her face from where she was, Just the back of her kimono and the hand rested on the table.

Though for some reason, The room grew colder.

More and more frigid by the second.

Mitsuri swallowed.

"..I know it was a demon, Upper Two- But what happened out there- It was like you just froze.. I.. I've never seen you look like that, Shinobu-chan." She continued slowly, Mitsuri's voice delicate as she spoke. Shinobu didn't answer.

"I-It was like I wasn't looking at you anymore, It was like I was looking at an entirely different person.. Shinobu-chan, Please, You need to tell me what happened out there..!" Mitsuri pleaded with her, Her voice quiet as if not to disturb anyone else yet it was desperate.

Shinobu stayed silent.

Mitsuri swallowed, Unsure of what to do.

It was like the entire room stilled. The ember in the lantern dimming, The croaking of the wood abnormally quiet. Mitsuri bit her lip, Knowing that Shinobu was probably in thought, Maybe she just didn't hear her.

Mitsuri took a step forward towards her, The floorboard creaking quietly below her sandals as she neared Shinobu. Mitsuri didn't even notice that she had stopped breathing, Slowly, Reaching her hand out towards Shinobu.

"Shinobu-chan.."

Mitsuri's fingers almost touched the fabric on her shoulder.

"Are you okay?"

…

"Okay?"

Mitsuri yelped out as her hand was roughly shoved off from Shinobu's shoulder. She stumbled back in surprise. Eyes widening as she looked up at her friend.

"Am I.. Okay, Mitsuri..?"

Shinobu's voice was low as she spoke, Her tone sickeningly sweet, Revolting, Enough to make bile spill out of a person's throat.

Shinobu. She looked back at Mitsuri with a smile that was painfully stretched from ear to ear, Her eyes wide and wild looking back at Mitsuri. Teeth gritted together as her expression contorted into a mix between a smile and a snarl.

"I.. I.." Mitsuri stammered over her words as she took a step back, Her shoulders raised to a peak. Shinobu's expression kept dead on her face as Mitsuri tried to figure out what was happening.

"You're asking me.. If I'm okay?"

The room grew colder like winter had found it's way into the room. What was happening? Mitsuri didn't know. Her eyes were unable to look away from the horrific sight that was Shinobu's toothed grin.

"Shinobu.. Chan..?" Suddenly Mitsuri felt like she was a cornered animal. Was she okay? What was wrong? Her smile.. Thoughts ran through her head like the wind outside crashing against the walls. She swallowed.

Mitsuri took a step back.

Shinobu took a step forward.

Before Mitsuri could even process a hand was tugging onto her arm, Grasping it as tightly as it could around her wrist. It was weak, It was frail but Mitsuri felt like it was steel digging into her skin in that very moment.

Shinobu giggled, But it sounded more like a hiss.

"You're so strong, Mitsuri, You know that right?" Shinobu said out of the blue, Her tone so disgustingly saccharine as she looked up into Mitsuri's eyes, Her own capable of melting flesh. "You're so talented, You're so skilled..! You can cut off a demons head just like that, So easily, Like their neck was simply paper.. I'm just so.. Amazed."

Mitsuri listened, Her head shook in confusion. Her breath began to pick up, Feeling her heart thrum in her chest. This was nothing like Shinobu, It was nothing like her at all. It was like looking into the eyes of a stranger-

A stranger that gripped Mitsuri's wrist like she wanted to dig her nails into it.

She swallowed back her unease.

"Shinobu-chan.. W-Where is this coming fro-?"

"You know.. I was never born with such incredible strength." Shinobu cut in, Not giving Mitsuri any chance to speak. "I could never slice a demon's head off like you do. All of that natural born strength.. I guess that's why you're considered one of the strongest Hashira, Right?"

Shinobu took a breath in, Shaky, Unsteady, Looking up at Mitsuri with nothing but wildfire in her eyes.

"You know, No matter how hard I train I'll still be known as the weakest Hashira, The only one whose so useless that they can't even cut off a demon's head!" Shinobu laughed like it was the funniest joke in the world. "You know the rest of the Hashira worked for that kind of physical power, Each and every one of them but.. You were just.. Born with it! Isn't that amazing how you can just look at me and think we're on equal standing..?"

Shinobu praised though it sounded like venom on her tongue, Burning, Acidic in Mitsuri's ears. Mitsuri shook her head, Her head beginning to spin as Shinobu stepped ever closer.

Her grip grew tighter on Mitsuri's arm, But not by much.

"I guess that's why I'm just so amazed by you.. So amazed that someone like you could ask if I'm okay." Shinobu breathed out, Her eyes piercing into Mitsuri's as she looked into them with ire.

"S-Shinobu-chan.. Let go of me-"

"-I mean you've been asking me that question for the past few days, Haven't you? Every. Single. Day." Shinobu laughed, Spitting out every little word like it rotted in her mouth. "Do you know how irritating that is, Mitsuri-chan~? How you keep asking and asking and asking and asking.."

Shinobu continued on as Mitsuri stood in shocked silence, Her lip trembling as she listened to Shinobu's voice crack as if it would break any moment now.

"T-The demon, You know it- Shinobu-chan- Please let go of me, What has gotten into you..-!"

"That thing killed my sister, Mitsuri-chan." Shinobu hissed out now, Not even concealing it as her smile wretched into a scowl.

Mitsuri's breath hitched.

Kanae.

Mitsuri hadn't met her but the stories she had heard were grand, At one point Kanae growing to be known as one of the strongest Hashira of their time. Shinobu had spoke of her sometimes, About her smile- About the way she spoke to people with the upmost kindness in her voice- The way she fought so gracefully on the battlefield.

But never about her death, Never. The topic was always shut down whenever it was brought up. It was figured to be a sore spot for both Shinobu and the Hashira that were old enough to remember her, The newer additions never bothering to ask out of respect.

But now?

"Shinobu-chan- I-I'm so sorry, I didn't know-"

"Don't." Shinobu hissed, Her expression darkening at Mitsuri's words. "Just don't. I don't want to hear your pity for me. It's already insufferable-"

Shinobu scoffed as she let go of Mitsuri's arm, Making Mitsuri stammer back away from her and grip the part where Shinobu grabbed her. Shinobu turned away, Her breath ragged as she paced about the room, Her footsteps hitting against the floor.

Mitsuri felt her hands shake, Trying her best to steady them as she breathed out. Her mind continued to race, Trying to find something, Anything to say to Shinobu- Anything that won't get her cut off or irritate her even further.

Mitsuri swallowed.

"S-Shinobu.. I'm not pitying you, I promise that- We are equal, You are because you're my friend..! You're amazing, You are strong-! Please, You need to listen to me..!" Mitsuri pleaded as she looked at her friend, Someone she has known for years.

Shinobu's laugh was cruel.

"No.. No, Mitsuri.. You don't get it. You don't get how lucky you are, Do you?" She asked, Shaking her head as she approached Mitsuri once more. Her footsteps making the floorboards creak, Making Mitsuri's breath hitch.

Shinobu's smile twitched, Her eyes burning into her.

"You had it good, Mitsuri. No one becomes a slayer because they had it good, Except for you. You never had anyone die in your arms, You never watched your family get slaughtered by demons. Never had to wash their blood out from your hair and still find bits of them under your nails the next morning."

Mitsuri felt tears begin to prickle in her eyes, Feel her lip tremble as she shook her head- Try to find anything to say.

But nothing came out.

Shinobu scoffed at her reaction when she heard no response, Her brow twitching.

"You didn't have it bad, Not like everyone else.. Not like Himejima-san, Not like Iguro-san, Shinazugawa-san- Not like [F/-!" Shinobu cut herself off, Her expression falling, Refusing to finish the name.

Mitsuri's eyes snapped up at the name, The one that made her heart skip a beat and clench all the same. Her eyes glinted with something almost like.. Hesitance, Feeling her stomach turn as Shinobu frowned- Frowned-!

But it quickly fell along with her expression, Slowly shaking her head.

"You didn't deserve [F/N], Neither of us did." Shinobu said quietly, Turning away from Mitsuri now as she looked nowhere in particular within the room. She scoffed. "But you know what Mitsuri..? You were right back then, You should have tried harder. You knew she wasn't doing well and you didn't do anything."

Mitsuri froze at Shinobu's words, Feeling like a punch to the gut made her expression turn crestfallen. She tried her best to keep her composure, To not break down when Shinobu was already doing the same.

But her expression began to crack, Beginning to chip at the edges.

"I-I know, Shinobu-chan, I know." Mitsuri spoke, Her voice gentle and trying it's best to stay levelled. "It's all I can think about, Every second of the day what I could've done to stop all of this. M-M'sorry.. Shinobu- I'm trying. I'm trying my best to make this right."

Shinobu scoffed, Turning around, Her glare burning into Mitsuri.

"Doesn't matter anymore, Mitsuri, Doesn't matter how hard you try. The only reason you're trying so hard to find her now is to get rid of the guilt of her death, Isn't it? But.. [F/N] is dead, And if she isn't- She's a demon by now and would tear either of us limb from limb without a second thought."

She stepped forward, Shinobu's voice grew low.

"The worst part is that I'd let her."

Mitsuri couldn't help but choke out, Tears burning in her eyes and threatening to spill over the edge. And they did. Tears trickling down her face made burns across her cheeks. Mitsuri sniffling only slightly as she listened to Shinobu's words.

They cut so deep, So very deep.

Mitsuri tried not to break as she hugged herself in her kimono.

The flame in Shinobu's eyes began to build once more, Her fallen expression building back up as she looked at Mitsuri with such anger unlike any other. Shaking her head she moved closer.

"She killed herself because of you, Mitsuri. You're the reason she's dead." Shinobu hissed, Her voice aching as she looked dead into Mitsuri's eyes.

"..I-I know." Mitsuri whispered.

Tears continued to spill down her cheeks, Sniffling as her expression broke more and more by the second. Neither of them spoke, Silence except for the small choked sobs under Mitsuri's breath and the ragged breathing of Shinobu.

Both just stared at each other. Shinobu's breathed out, Her eyes shrinking back only slightly as she stepped away from her. She swallowed, Trailing down to look at the floor as her head shook.

"Just.. Get out." Shinobu hissed quietly. "Go tell those.. Those monks that you're allergic to the bedding- Or something.. Just. Just get out of my sight..!"

"S-Shinobu..-!"

"Get out..!" Shinobu butted in once more. Firmer, Louder as she turned away to face the wall- Not wanting to look at her any longer as she stepped back near the corner of the room.

Mitsuri didn't need any more signs as sniffled, Wiping the tears trickling down her face on her kimono sleeve, Trying to steady her breathing. Mitsuri's eyes began to sting as she dragged her feet over to the sliding door.

She gripped the handle, Wanting to say something- Anything to Shinobu. But Mitsuri knew that she wouldn't get the results desired.

So instead she just breathed in, Trying her best not to cry any further as she walked out of the room.

Leaving Shinobu alone, Her expression unseen as the door shut closed.

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