DEMON SLAYER ONESHOTS

Guilt ➵ H. Inosuke

Manga spoilers‼️

Inosuke Hashibira

   I've never once felt the feeling of guilt. I didn't really have a solid reason to. I've had a motive for every little action I did and I would dedicate myself to that motive without any drop of hesitation.

   It makes me wonder how I met such amazing friends by my side; never judging me for the petty arguments I fuel or the mishaps I cause.

   Tanjiro and I were very different. I suppose I envy him a little. Not quite but it's still there. He's very kindhearted with great morals. I could sense a great future ahead of him, I really do. He's never doubted me and places his faith in me even when I am in the wrong. He's an incredible human being. I wish him the best of luck with Kanao.

   Zenitsu was an odd one, I've always thought indifferent of him. A wimp with no self control, though I can't deny I care deeply about him. We might end up in brawls that I may have caused but that doesn't meddle with our friendship. In fact, I think our differences strengthens our bond. I like him; I wish him the best of luck with Nezuko.

   Nezuko, she was very beautiful with a pure smile. A smile that made my chest warm. I grew attached to her for some unknown reason; I would yearn for her hugs, her sisterly head pats, her touch in general. I thought of her as an older sister. I really like her.

   They're all amazing friends, I've grown to cherish them—picturing them as my own family. I looked forward to every day, knowing that they would be there, fighting beside me.

   So, why did I leave? Why did I leave them?

   And, why do I feel so damn guilty about it?

   We've finally defeated Muzan, at the cost of our friends' lives. They sacrificed themselves for a better future for humanity. Tanjiro was on the brink of death—turning into a demon and conquered the sun as quick as the snap of a finger. Zenitsu ventured his life without a complaint. Every single comrade of mine went through hell just to get to this point.

   As new obstacles interfered with our goal, we stuck together and won over our troubles without a fail. So why? Why did I leave? After everything we've been through; petty arguments, beautiful moments, life risking missions—why the hell did I leave?

   I could finally live a happier life beside them, a life where demons no longer exist, perishing into the empty air and becoming a story that none of our descendants will ever believe. We can finally enjoy any festivals being held during the night without a worry. Our hands will no longer be tainted with blood, taking the life of demons who once used to be human. We can finally enjoy life. Together.

   But, I left. After wielding a sword to Tanjiro's neck after he turned into a demon. I couldn't do it, I couldn't finish him off. Yet, that doesn't matter. I willingly held my katana in my grip, pointing it towards my very own comrade. My own friend.

   Tanjiro. Who is a like a brother to me.

   I was debating whether I should slice off his neck. For the very first time, I feel guilt. I don't deserve to stand beside him anymore. I don't deserve to see that kind smile of his. I don't deserve such an amazing person in my life.

   I don't deserve any of them. Perhaps that could be the reason why I left. Yet, that day has become an indistinct memory. I can rarely remember the last few words we exchanged before I took my leave.

   I can't deny it any longer. I miss you all. So much. It pains me to reminisce every time I come across the small portrait hanging up in my living room. The ways our lips are curled into the brightest smiles, our eyes holding a story behind them. A story that we created and wrote a happy ending to.

   I miss everything.

   Please, forgive me..

   My beloved comrades.