𝐏𝐀𝐂𝐊𝐄𝐓 𝐇𝐄𝐑𝐎 , ᵏⁿʸ (discontinued)

Prologue

"Tanjirou."

He turned to his mother with a curious gaze, softly padding toward her on the gentle snow. "Your face is covered in soot," she spoke as she wiped her hands on a bright white handkerchief. "You don't have to go. It's dangerous when the snow is falling."

Tanjirou sighed, his breath visible in the frosty air as he spoke his mind. "I'll sell as much charcoal as I can so that everyone can eat their fair share on new year's." she smiled gently, eyes softening as she wiped away the last spot of soot on his face. "Thank you."

"Nii-chan! You're going to the village today?" shouted a young boy, Shigeru, his thin eyebrows raised with joy. "I want to go too!" said Hanako, tiny fists clenched with hope. Their mother shook her head softly. "No, you can't walk as fast as Tanjirou does."

"But mom!" whined Hanako, shoulders slumping with disappointment. "No." Kie decreed.

"He can't pull the cart today, so he won't be able to give you a ride if you get tired." Shigeru hugged Tanjirou tightly while Hanako continued to protest in the background. "Takeo, can you chop enough wood while I'm gone? I know you can do it!" Tanjirou said, grinning at the mentioned boy.

"Yeah, but...." Takeo sighed, tightening his grip on the axe slung over his shoulder. "I was hoping we'd do it together."

"Tanjirou!" shouted (Name) as she padded out of their house in snow boots. "Wait! can't I come?" Tanjirou smiled but shook his head softly. "Why don't you stay here and read with Hanako? You know the books she likes." she groaned. "I don't want to read. I want to go to the village!"

Kie stood from her kneeling position, an upset hand on her hip. "(Name), no means no. What did I say about not listening?" (Name) averted her gaze, pursing her cold lips. "Sorry, mom."

——

When happiness is broken, there is always the smell of blood.