The group had barely returned from their grueling mission when a summons arrived, requesting Bell, Rengoku, Tanjiro, and his companions to report at the Demon Slayer Headquarters. Bell exchanged a look with Rengoku, who gave him a reassuring smile.
"They'll want details on Akaza, no doubt," Rengoku said, folding his arms with an air of anticipation.
As they reached the headquarters, Tanjiro, Zenitsu, and Inosuke couldn't hide their awe at the grand estate, and they walked cautiously under the watchful eyes of the Hashira. Zenitsu, wide-eyed and trembling, glanced at each of the formidable Hashira as if they might unleash their power on him at any moment. Meanwhile, Inosuke, completely unbothered, stared back at them with narrowed eyes, assessing their strength.
"They don't look that tough," Inosuke muttered, earning a glance from Gyomei, the stone Hashira, who stood in silence, hands clasped together. Zenitsu, still shaking, hissed in protest.
"Are you out of your mind, Inosuke?" Zenitsu whimpered, sweat dripping down his face. "They're terrifying!"
As they reached the center of the gathering, the Master, Kagaya Ubuyashiki, entered. His serene expression radiated warmth, and his voice was gentle as he welcomed them. "I am grateful for your swift return," he said, nodding respectfully. "Please, tell us of your mission."
Bell took a step forward to begin the report, his voice calm yet commanding as he detailed the encounter with Akaza and the events that led to their victory. "The demon was an Upper Moon, very powerful," Bell explained. "It took cooperation from Myself, Rengoku, Tanjiro, and all present to bring him down."
As Bell recounted the battle, each of the Hashira responded in their own way. Giyuu, the Water Hashira, nodded in his usual silent manner. Shinobu, the Insect Hashira, wore her trademark gentle smile, though her eyes glimmered with a curious interest as she listened closely. Mitsuri, the Love Hashira, looked at Bell with undisguised admiration, a slight blush spreading across her cheeks.
Bell then gave credit to the others in the group. "Tanjiro and Inosuke both demonstrated remarkable resolve in the fight. Tanjiro's bravery and dedication to protecting the civilians didn't waver, even in the face of death. Zenitsu was instrumental in protecting those who couldn't defend themselves."
Zenitsu blushed, caught off guard by the praise, and muttered a thank you as Inosuke merely crossed his arms and grunted.
Kagaya nodded thoughtfully. "You've all done well," he said. "Your dedication brings us hope in these dark times."
Then, Kagaya turned to Bell with a knowing look. "Bell, do you carry a mark of the Slayer on your body?"
Bell shook his head, somewhat sheepish. "No, Master. I don't have a Slayer mark," he replied. "But I do have a tattoo," he added, pulling up the fabric to show his back to reveal the symbol of the Norse goddess Freya etched in intricate detail.(It's Freya Familia Insginia on his back).
The room fell silent for a moment, captivated by the sight of the tattoo. Mitsuri and Shinobu both blushed, unable to look away from the bold design etched across Bell's well-defined shoulder.
Shinobu stepped forward with a mischievous smile. "Bell, it's important to check the physical state of our warriors," she said, her tone light but intent unmistakable as she reached out to touch his bare Back. "Consider it a…medical examination."
Amane Ubuyashiki, the Master's wife, glanced away, her face red, grateful that her husband could not see her reaction. Obanai Iguro, the Serpent Hashira, glowered from behind his scarf, a frown creasing his features as he observed Mitsuri, who was muttering softly, her cheeks flushed.
Sanemi, the Wind Hashira, snorted in disdain, though even he looked somewhat impressed by Bell's build. "Well, at least he's got muscle," he muttered. "About time we had a Slayer who isn't all talk."
Kagaya continued, giving Bell a nod of approval. "Given your skills and leadership in battle, I propose that we promote you to Hashira. You would be assigned an area of Japan to protect, a region that will no doubt benefit from your strength and experience."
Bell paused, considering the offer, but finally shook his head. "I'd be honored, Master, but my blade… it broke during the battle with Akaza," he admitted. "A fault of the swordsmith, perhaps, but I'd like a replacement before taking on any formal title."
Tanjiro nodded eagerly in agreement. "Yes, Master! Bell's sword snapped clean through—I saw it myself. Also mine snapped too."
The Master nodded in understanding. "Very well. You'll both receive replacements soon. You've earned that and more."
After a pause, Kagaya beckoned Tanjiro forward, dismissing the others. He spoke with Tanjiro privately, discussing the Sun Breathing technique and providing insight into the Slayer Mark's history. Tanjiro listened intently, his resolve renewed by the Master's words.
Later, Bell joined the others at Shinobu's estate for some recuperation. The atmosphere there was lively, and Shinobu continued her shameless flirting, stealing glances and offering Bell an array of tonics and potions, occasionally slipping in a compliment or two. Bell, bemused, chuckled but politely accepted her attentions. Days passed in this manner, filled with light-hearted banter and camaraderie as they trained and regained their strength.
It wasn't long before a new mission surfaced.
Tengen Uzui, the Sound Hashira, appeared in his usual flamboyant manner, striding up to the group and lifting a confused girl onto his shoulder. Bell and the others turned, watching in confusion as Tengen continued without explanation.
Tanjiro, always eager to help, approached him. "Uzui-san, please let her go and allow us to come with you! We'd be glad to help with any mission."
Uzui raised an eyebrow, an amused smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth. "Two Hashira for one mission? Flashy," he said, giving Bell an approving look. "But you'll need all the flashiness you can get in the Entertainment District. We're dealing with a possible Upper Moon, and it's not for the faint of heart."
Bell grinned, exchanging a knowing look with Tengen. "I think we can manage that."