❤ ~ The Greatest Gift ~ ❤

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Hello to you all. I have an update! My Ear infection has settled and I should be able to head back into writing this story. Hope you're excited and please leave feedback. Also, option 1 had the most votes, so there will be a time skip over the Final Selection period. This chapter will resume at the end of the trial. 

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The week had gone by as planned. For the four, they never came into trouble unless stumbling upon it. A few times they'd offered a hand to help someone in need, but in the end; most knew it pointless. Especially when the seven days were up and few remained. Some nameless had passed, while some Tanjirou had viewed before had never left the wooded area. It only back the words in the beginning. The trial was no joke. The two had warned those unprepared to leave and those who did not heed those words, they simply lost their lives. It was a worthless sacrifice.

Giyuu and Sabito had remained slightly in the back, Makomo and Tanjirou not too far off. The two being the youngest, also happened to be the most mature. Giyuu and Sabito were too busy arguing to notice the familiar faces. At least until a voice came into play. Only then did the two settle, to the joy of the other's. 

"I see some have succeeded."

"That is joyous news, joyous indeed."

"Today marks the beginnings of your adventure as Demon Slayers."

"As a gift, those who have passed and stand before us are to pick an ore."

"The ore will be crafted into a Demon Slaying blade, one that will be used for time and time again."

"Pick well, for there is only one choice."

"That is all there is."

"Once the ore is picked, you may take leave until summoned once your sword arrives." The two twin like humans turned to leave before speaking up once more. 

"Also, these birds shall be the messengers."

"They relay messages and orders, so keep that in mind."

"May luck guide you all for a better future." Tanjirou watched them step back, most stepping forward. He wasn't too worried about picking, mostly due to the sword he already possessed. His father's old blade was all he truly needed, but another sword would never hurt. A back up of sorts. Once most had cleared, Giyuu and the others stepped forward. Tanjirou having a keen smell, knew which was best. He easily picked the ores for all four, no one questioning him. How could they? They held perfect trust for Tanjirou. 

Once all that was said and done, the four began their trek home. It was a long walk, but peaceful. The chatter and bickering. The jokes and games. All of it reminded Tanjirou of what he had. Of what he lost, but had replaced. He had never truly been without family. That thought alone was his strength, helped keep him moving. Knowing he'd never truly be alone. He'd always be someone special. Someone important. As an eleven year old, that was more than enough for him. The world may be terrifying and dangerous, but he felt no fear. No doubts. No hesitation. He simply felt content and overjoyed. In simple terms, blessed. 

The travel had ended by nightfall when the four returned, Tanjirou exhausted. Giyuu had taken note earlier, offering to carry Tanjirou. While the other wanted to refuse, it wasn't in question. the raven quite literally scooped the other up until Tanjirou accepted the offer. Once at the cabin where Urokodaki remained, the four heard the doors open. That red mask came into view, the older male rushing over. He pulled the group close, his joy present. It made the group chuckle before Urokodaki stepped back. Tipping his mask away from his face, he smiled. His tone was soft, calming as well. 

"Glad you all made it. I truly am thrilled." Sabito smirked, placing his hand on his hip.

"Of course we'd make it! We're untouchable!" Giyuu raised a brow, Makomo kicking the pinkette. As he fell over groaning from the pain in his leg, Tanjirou couldn't help but chuckle. He climbed down from Giyuu's back, holding his sword close to him. 

"I never had my doubts in you all. Even so, I knew the dangers. I simply worried." Urokodaki took in a breath, motioning the group inside. Once indoors, the older male sealed them from the outside before taking a seat. Something was cooking, a scent Tanjirou caught wind to fast. After everything, he was famished. Berries only went so far and most of the group could agree with that statement. "I believed in you all, so I made food for your return. With all that movement and survival, I figure food is beneficial."

Sabito was the first to show his excitement. As he sat, Makomo sat beside him. For Giyuu and Tanjirou, the duo were slightly back from the others. Tanjirou, while hungry; also was still tired. He waited patiently, leaning against Giyuu's body that was leaned against the wall. He only sat up once Urokodaki passed them a bowl. To put it lightly, for a broth and simple soup, it was mouth watering for them all. It was the first time they ever took notice to what they had. 

The meal was filled with stories, mostly spoken of from Sabito. Makomo simply enjoyed, Urokodaki listening intently. Giyuu had taken moments to listen, but ultimately let his focus drift when he felt a weight lean more into him. His gaze fell to Tanjirou, who clung lightly to his sleeve. Those small fingers keeping hold of the other. It made Giyuu chuckle, his gaze shifting again as he noticed the lingering gazes. Tanjirou's soft breathing and gentle snores had drawn most eyes. 

"He was pretty tired, huh?" Sabito spoke softly, taking into consideration to not wake the other. Makomo couldn't help but smile, seeing the way Tanjirou held onto Giyuu. It gave her an idea.

"He might wake up if you move, so why not stay there tonight. I'll bring a blanket." Giyuu thought it over, agreeing without much hesitance. He knew better than most, Tanjirou deserved sleep. He was a growing male, not that the others weren't. Besides Makomo that was. Most pretty much knew she was never getting taller, not that they would say that aloud. Her kicks were quite painful. 

"I suggest everyone get some sleep. You've had a long week, after all." Urokodaki's words made most nod, Makomo climbing from the floor. She left before returning, a blanket in her hands. Laying it out, she watched Giyuu gently assure Tanjirou had enough of it. Once settled, Urokodaki put out the fire, rising with the other two as they headed from the main room. It left Giyuu and Tanjirou, the raven smiling as he listened to the calm breathing. He spoke gently, not really concerned if Tanjirou heard or not. 

"Good night Tanjirou. Sleep well." Leaning his head to the side, he rested it on the top of Tanjirou's. A slight shuffle was noted, but it quickly settled as Giyuu closed his eyes. It felt oddly peaceful and warm. Such a feeling he was sure he would cherish.