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Ryuji didn't have a grand reason for wanting to join the Demon Slayer Corps. Perhaps it was ambition, or maybe it was something deeper that even he couldn't yet name.
"If I recall correctly, 'Ubuyashiki Kagaya' doesn't have much time left," he murmured to himself, his dark eyes glinting with an unreadable emotion. "When he passes, his family will be left vulnerable—orphans and widows."
A calculating smirk tugged at the corner of his lips. Such a powerful organization, the Demon Slayer Corps, was ripe for the taking. The moment Ubuyashiki Kagaya fell, it would create a vacuum of leadership. The next head, 'Ubuyashiki Kiriya,' was merely a boy—a capable one, perhaps, but lacking the authority needed to command hardened warriors.
"When that time comes," Ryuji thought, "I'll rise above them all. I'll suppress their doubts and unify them under my command."
His confidence wasn't misplaced. His strength far surpassed even the strongest Hashira. He could best the likes of Gyomei Himejima, the Stone Hashira, and Sanemi Shinazugawa, the Wind Hashira, in single combat. But Kagaya's influence over the Demon Slayer Corps was absolute. While he lived, wresting control from him would be impossible.
Still, there were dangers, even for someone as strong as Ryuji. Kibutsuji Muzan remained a looming threat, and perhaps the Upper Rank demons as well. But Ryuji knew that if he could gain full control of the Corps, even Muzan would hesitate to strike.
His thoughts took a momentary detour, lingering on Kagaya's family. "His wife, Amane Ubuyashiki, is said to be a stunning beauty, and his daughters... they're equally remarkable." Ryuji frowned, shaking his head as unease flickered in his chest.
By the time he arrived back at his home, the Kochou sisters, Kanae and Shinobu, were still training with Kanao Tsuyuri under his guidance. Their breathing was labored, their movements slower now, but their determination shone brightly.
"That's enough for today," Ryuji said, his voice firm but not unkind.
The girls froze for a moment before nodding, grateful for the reprieve. Kie Kamado stepped out from the kitchen, wiping her hands on her apron. "Dinner is ready," she announced, her warm smile lighting up the room.
Kanae tried to support her younger sister, Shinobu, as they prepared to leave. However, Ryuji stepped in, his tone leaving no room for argument. "You should eat here tonight. In your state, you won't have the energy to cook when you get home."
Kie quickly chimed in, "He's right. Please, stay and eat with us. It's no trouble at all."
Kanae hesitated, her lips pressing into a thin line before she relented with a soft smile. "Thank you. We appreciate your kindness."
Even Shinobu, though still wary of Ryuji, muttered a quiet, "Thank you," under her breath.
Ryuji's attention shifted to Kanao, who stood quietly to the side. Without a word, he crouched down and gently picked her up. Kanao stiffened momentarily before relaxing, her small hands clutching at his haori.
When they entered the living room, the savory aroma of freshly prepared food greeted them. Kie had set the table with an impressive array of dishes, each one meticulously prepared.
"Thank you for your hard work, Kie," Ryuji said, his tone sincere.
Kie's cheeks flushed faintly as she lowered her gaze. "As long as you enjoy it, Ryuji," she replied softly, her voice filled with quiet pride.
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The table was surrounded by people, the warmth of family filling the room as the rich aroma of food wafted through the air. Steam rose from the dishes, curling lazily above the spread, and the gentle hum of conversation added to the cozy atmosphere.
Ryuji sat naturally at the head of the table, his posture relaxed but commanding. On either side of him sat Kie Kamado and Nezuko, their laughter blending into the chatter of the room.
"Sister, let me help you," Nezuko offered quickly as she noticed Kochou Shinobu's hands trembling slightly while lifting her bowl.
"Thank you," Shinobu replied softly, lowering her head in gratitude.
"You're welcome." Nezuko smiled, her tone cheerful and warm.
The group ate together, sharing stories and small moments of humor. Occasionally, minor disputes between the younger children broke the calm, their spirited banter bringing a lively energy to the dinner.
Kanae and Shinobu remained quiet, their hands clasped around their bowls. The warmth of this home reminded them of what they had lost—a family sharing a meal, sitting together around a single table.
Memories of their parents surfaced, bittersweet and vivid. They had once taken such moments for granted, never considering how precious they were. Now, surrounded by the love and laughter of this family, their hearts ached with longing.
Unnoticed by the others, their eyelashes grew damp as silent tears welled.
Ryuji observed them out of the corner of his eye. He said nothing but reached out, picking up a piece of steamed fish. Gently, he offered it to Kanao Tsuyuri, who sat quietly beside him.
Kanao blinked, her large, expressive eyes meeting his for a moment before she hesitantly opened her mouth, taking the offered food. A faint blush dusted her cheeks as she chewed slowly.
Across the table, Nezuko's nose crinkled slightly at the sight, a soft huff escaping her lips.
Ryuji raised a brow, turning toward her. "Something wrong, Nezuko?"
Immediately, Nezuko turned her head away, her pigtails swishing in indignation.
Ryuji chuckled softly, finding her reaction amusing. He leaned slightly toward Kie, who was seated beside him, and whispered, "Your daughter is jealous."
Kie's cheeks flushed a deep pink, and she glanced nervously at the Kochou sisters before whispering back, "Nezuko just… cares about you, Ryuji. That's all. She's not jealous."
Ryuji smirked knowingly. "She's so possessive now. What'll happen when she grows up?"
Kie's face grew even redder. She hesitated before murmuring in a voice so soft it was almost inaudible, "Maybe Nezuko doesn't need to marry when she grows up."
Ryuji turned his head, surprised by her words. "Not marry?"
Kie's hands fidgeted with the edge of her sleeve as she avoided his gaze. "She could stay home… with us. That way, she wouldn't have to leave."
For a moment, Ryuji was at a loss for words. Then a slow smile spread across his face, one filled with both amusement and warmth. "You're something else, Kie," he said, shaking his head lightly.
Kie glanced up at him shyly, then quickly changed the subject, picking up a chicken drumstick and placing it in his bowl. "Eat, Ryuji. The food is better while it's hot."
He chuckled softly, taking a bite of the chicken. "Delicious as always," he murmured, savoring the flavor.
Kie rose to fetch some wine, her steps measured and graceful. Ryuji's gaze lingered on her retreating figure, his expression unreadable for a moment before he returned his focus to his meal.
The room filled with laughter and warmth again as the family continued to eat, the bonds of their shared struggles and joys weaving them closer together.
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