Taste of Eternity - 🖤Muzan✖Tanjirou🖤

⚜ Chapter Two ⚜

How long had he been wandering down the same path, not really taking into account where he was? How could he, especially with everything that haunted his mind with each stride he took. Those foreboding words and the sickly sweet tone left endless chills coursing along his exhausted frame. He was not physically exhausted, mostly mental. Too many thoughts overwhelmed him. But something else brought him turmoil. His heart felt weightless, almost heavy the moment he'd been left. That should have brought joy knowing the danger was gone for the moment, but that wasn't his feeling. He was both relieved but also distressed for reasons he couldn't comprehend. 

Releasing a heavy sigh, he overheard the sounds of a familiar voice reach his ears. His gaze wandered upward, meeting calm eyes that shimmered under the moonlight. A smile spread quickly over his features as he stopped, opening his arms as a body ran into his embrace. Strong, yet gentle hands clung to his haori, black hair swaying softly with the gentle breeze. The bamboo muzzle pressed to his chest as his sister held on tightly, leaving his tremoring heart to become at ease.

"I am back Nezuko, sorry it took so long. Hope you've behaved yourself." She pulled away before nodding, his hand resting on her head before another smell wafted past him. The scent of ash and fire drew his gaze as those golden orbs met his own. 

"She behaved herself, I assure. Thought I'd look after her, especially with so many uncertainties." Tanjirou nodded, knowing full well the extent to those words. He had a duty to uphold, should Nezuko lash out. Luckily, Tanjirou knew that would never be the case. "How was the mission?"

"It went as good as it possibly could. The Demon was an easy feat, though I assure it would have been child's play for a pillar such as yourself." Kyoujurou remained silent for a time, his eyes scanning the young Slayer. Nezuko had hidden somewhat behind him, observing the pillar almost coldly. 

"If you say so. I've come to bring word that Kagaya wishes to speak with you."

"About what?" Kyoujurou sighed, turning on his heels before leading the way, both siblings following closely. Neither said a single word, simply enjoyed the serenity before them. It had been too long since they both were left in the peaceful calm. 

Before long, the group arrived at the doors to the destination. Knocking quietly, Kyoujurou dismissed himself before the two siblings were allowed to enter. Upon stepping inside, he knelt on the cushioning as his sister laid next to him. She stared at the ceiling, her hand remaining glued to Tanjirou's as the Slayer met the blank stare of Kagaya himself. 

"Glad to see you've returned without trouble. I am thrilled to have assigned it to you, but I've a question to ask. I've received a report that your assigned crow lost sight of you. Mind explaining what happened?" There was a long pause as Tanjirou flinched at the question. He wasn't entirely how much to say. Lying was not his preferred, but the truth was often as deadly. Holding back his sigh, he steadied his heart before letting the words fall from his mouth. Kagaya was no fool, but Tanjirou was not one either. He'd hide the truth, not only for his sake, but his sisters. She meant everything and the events and conversation between him and Muzan would stake their lives. Questions would rise and no doubt swords would be aimed their way, even if the truth was not as simple as it seemed.

"I lost my crow somewhere beyond the destination. I was tired and needed to refresh before pursuing the demon, which I will admit was a poor time. Without notifying my crow, I traveled to a creak I'd found in the woodlands and rested whilst refilling my canteen. I greatly apologize for not saying where I was should something bad arise, but I assure there was nothing of interest. Once my break was done, I ventured to the village and slayed the Demon. My crow found me on the travel back, no doubt after reporting I was 'missing'. Once more, I humbly apologize." Kagaya smiled before raising his hand, his voice calming.

"You've no need to apologize. Accidents happen and luckily nothing tragic unfolded whilst there was no vision on you. I am glad you've made it back unharmed. Now then, since I've no reason to suspect anything from you, I will work on your next assignment. I trust you, just as I trust the pillars." Those words hit like a brick, his heart dropping. Trust was not something he felt like he'd deserved, not with his wavering heart. He wanted to tell the truth, to come clean, but it was impossible. No matter how much he refused to lie, it was all he could do to ensure his survival. Him and his sisters own lives. "I will send someone for you should the time come for your next mission. Take care Tanjirou, until then."

"You as well." Tanjirou lowered his head before rising, his sister following closely. Once beyond the doors, he felt her tug on his hand. She frowned through the muzzle, no doubt sensing her brother's troubled heart. Giving a weak smile, he spoke softly toward her. "How about we pay Zenitsu and Inosuke a visit, no?" 

Nezuko seemed to cheer up at those words, drawing out a soft chuckle as they headed down the hall toward the medical wing. The entire time Nezuko skipped around, being cheerful. That sight alone put a rest to Tanjirou's worries. He had remembered that one question that weighed on his mind most. Those words like a curse that dragged his feet and made his soul crumble. 'Would you still remain loyal should they seek your sisters death?' Truthfully, at that moment he was unsure. But there was one thing that was clear to him with the time he took to think it over. His sister was his world. Where he went, she would follow. If ever she was in danger, he'd do anything to keep her safe. She was all he had left and he'd curse anyone who desired to harm her. Demon or not, they'd have him to go through. Loyalty was something he believed strongly in, but family was far greater. He's much rather loose that loyalty then the only gift life ever gave him. His sister.

Evening had left without warning, the sun rising as the two sibling remained in their room. Nezuko was laying beside her brother, head resting within his lap. He brushed slowly through her locks, watching as she rocked her head slightly in both directions. She had always adored the care Tanjirou gave her. Finishing the last locks, he let them fall before she sat up, turning toward him. Her muzzle was resting on the sheets, something Tanjirou felt was unneeded with him around. The pillars feared her due to her being a Demon, but as her brother, Tanjirou knew better than anyone that she'd not harm him. 

"I'll be heading out on a mission sometime tonight, so you know. Wish to go with me?" She instantly nodded, her smile spreading as she leapt toward her brother. Her arms pulled him into a hug, something he welcomed without question. "You know, while in this room you may speak freely. I know that muzzle is annoying, no doubt."

"It's fine Nii-chan. I got used to it, after all." There was a drawn out silence before Tanjirou broke it, his hands ruffling his sisters head.

"I wish I could hear you talk more..." Nezuko hesitated before picking up her muzzle, her gaze watching it.

"Someday I'll be human again, so until then we can survive. I believe in you." Those words warmed his heart, his head leaning against the wall as he sighed. "I have another question, truthfully."

"What is it Nezuko?"

"Why did you lie to Kagaya?" Instinctively he flinched, his head lowering as he rubbed his neck.

"Was I that obvious?"

"Not to others, but I've known you for too long. What really happened while you were on mission?" 

"Nezuko, I will tell you someday, but not now. I need to sort my thoughts. I promise to come clean about everything soon." She seemed hesitant but nodded, her pinky outstretched. Chuckling lightly, he reached out and took it.

"I trust you. When your ready, I am here to listen." Giving a nod, she placed the muzzle back on before laying once more on his lap. Her legs kicked into the air as she remained silent, only watching the ceiling. Tanjirou watched her, his smile fading as his mind played the events in his head. 'I hope you'll forgive this foolish brother of yours...'

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Hope you've enjoyed the chapter and looking forward to bring Muzan into the story more! Leave me your thoughts~ They are highly appreciated! (✿◠‿◠)