After the Hashira meeting ended, the Shadow Hashira, Hanabi Jinsei, approached Ubuyashiki in private.
"Hanabi-san, what is it that you want to speak with me alone?" Ubuyashiki inquired in his usual gentle demeanor.
Taking a moment, Shadow Hashira met Ubuyashiki's gaze as he spoke with a hint of melancholy, "I know this might come as a surprise, especially given our current lack of Hashiras in the corps, but I've come to a decision. I plan to retire from my position as Hashira,"
Ubuyashiki listened attentively, his expression remaining unchanged, showing no sign of his inner thoughts or emotions.
Shadow Hashira continued, "Recently, I feel myself getting weak. The injuries I sustained during my younger days have begun to resurface. I consulted the doctors; they said I was getting old."
"I see," Ubuyashiki murmured, nodding in understanding. With a slight bow, he continued, "If this is truly what you feel is best, I respect your decision. I sincerely thank you for your unwavering dedication to slaying the demons. Your efforts and sacrifices for the Demon Slayer Corps will always be remembered."
"Thank you, Ubuyashiki-sama, for understanding. I will continue as a Hashira for three more months before retiring. After that, I will support the Corps by serving as a trainer." Hanabi sighed.
"I understand, Hanabi-San. Thank you for your support!"
--
"'Slash!' A demon's head soared into the air before disintegrating into ashes.
"It's time to rest! Time to rest, Ryou. You can take a day off."
The past week had been hectic for Ryou, with his Kasugai crow constantly ordering him to travel from one place to another. "Finally," he thought to himself, "I can't wait to soak in a warm bath and sleep for a day."
For an entire week, he had been traveling tirelessly, tracking down demons. The constant travel had left him drained. In the midst of his tasks, he hadn't found a spare moment to train and improve himself.
Now he understands why it takes so long for even the strongest demon slayers to ascend to the rank of Hashira, as they are in constant pursuit of demons with little time to improve their skills.
During this week, he destroyed three demons including the Frog Demon, bringing his total 'Demon Points' to 4.
At his current pace, he's uncertain when he'll reach the milestone of slaying 50 demons to become a Hashira. As for encountering a Lower Moon, it's a matter of chance.
'Sigh', Ryou began to walk in the direction instructed by his kasugai crow. 'I was granted only a single free day since I wasn't injured in any way...'
After a few hours of travel, he caught sight of a mansion located on the outskirts of a town. Its door is engraved with a symbol of a wisteria flower.
'Wisteria House' Ryou's relieved to be finally there. As he neared, the door of the house opened.
"Welcome to Wisteria House," A middle-aged lady greeted warmly, inviting him inside with a smile.
She led him directly to a nice room equipped with all the necessary amenities. "Feel free to change into more relaxed attire. We'll take care of your clothing and gear.
If you'd like, you can enjoy the hot springs before having the meal,"
Ryou nodded and thanked the lady of the Wisteria house with gratitude. He deeply respects this family who's offering free food, accommodation, and other services to the Demon Slayer Corps.
The lady smiled slightly and left the room so that he could change and take a bath.
After indulging in a relaxing hot bath and a hearty meal, Ryou allowed himself to rest. He only woke up the next day, feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
--
Early Morning,
With a fresh mind, Ryou walked to the backyard of the house to practice his breathing style. A serene garden scenery greeted him. With no one to disturb him, he began his training.
As he immersed himself in the flow of his Nature Sword style from the first form to the ninth form, a sudden sound drew his attention from behind.
"Your form is impeccable, and your breathing is steady and powerful. I must admit, I only witnessed such mastery of the breathing style only in Hashiras," came a voice, filled with admiration.
Ryou looked up to see who was speaking to him when he got a good look at the man bathed in sunlight, he was surprised. It was none other than Rengoku Kyojuro.
He stood tall and confident, with an air of great optimism about him. The striking thing about him is the long bright yellow hair streaked with fiery red hues and distinct golden eyes.
He looked exactly as Ryou pictured him, donning the iconic attire familiar from the anime.
"I'm sorry, I forgot to introduce myself. I am Rengoku Kyojuro," he said with a warm smile. "And your breathing style, it's unique. What do you call it?"
"I call it Nature Breathing style. By the way, I'm Ryou," he replied, nodding in greeting.
"Nature Breathing... it's my first time hearing it. Are you a Hashira?" Kyojuro asked.
"No, not yet. But I will soon be," Ryou replied with confidence.
"Hahaha... me too. I like your confidence. Let's work hard to become one, Ryou." Rengoku smiled brightly.
"Sure! Let's make a friendly competition who becomes a Hashira first. Are you ready for it, Kyojuro?" Ryou asked. He likes Kyojuro's upright personality.
"Wonderful! I accept your challenge, Ryou," Kyojuro replied, flashing a thumbs-up sign. "As Demon Slayers, we should set lofty goals and constantly push ourselves. I won't lose."
At that moment, his Kasugai crow, Kuro, came swooping down from the sky and landed on his shoulder before disclosing his next mission loudly.
"Ryou...Ryou...your next mission is here. A formidable demon has been sighted nearby, and numerous Demon Slayers have already fallen victim to it.
So, you are required to team up with Rengoku Kyojuro for this mission. Proceed with caution!"
At the same time, Kyojuro's Kasugai crow relayed the same words to him.
"Looks like we'll be traveling together on this one," Ryou remarked to Kyojuro.
"Indeed. I look forward to working together and witness your strength, Ryou. Let's go." Kyojuro stated loudly.
--
P@atre0n/FanficMortal