Shadows of the Moon

Chapter 10: Back to the Present

Tanjiro POV:

As the sun rises, casting its warm rays upon us, I find myself engaged in rigorous training with Kanao. Every strike, every move, I feel a surge of energy flowing through my veins. It's as if a newfound strength has awakened within me. Surprisingly, my blows are landing with precision, catching Kanao off guard. She is visibly taken aback, her usually composed demeanor showing signs of surprise.

I leap, twisting in the air, executing a series of flips and spins that I never thought possible. The air whistles past me, my body moving with grace and agility. Kanao, although clearly struggling to keep up, continues to give her all. Her determination is evident in her unwavering gaze.

After what feels like an eternity of intense training, we finally pause to catch our breath. Sweat drips down my forehead as I contemplate this newfound strength. Is it a result of my relentless training or is it something else? The words of that demon echo in my mind, reminding me of the curse he placed upon me. Is this surge of power a manifestation of that curse?

We find ourselves in the shade, savoring a simple yet satisfying lunch. I devour a bowl of warm rice, its comforting aroma wafting through the air. Alongside it, a medley of vegetables and a piece of grilled fish complete the meal. Each bite provides nourishment to my weary body, filling me with renewed energy.

With lunch finished, I turn my attention to the chores that await. The familiar routine brings a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos that has befallen my life. I sweep the floors diligently, ensuring every corner is free from dust. The rhythmic sound of the broom against the wooden surface provides a calming rhythm to my thoughts.

Next, I proceed to tend to the garden, carefully pruning the flowers and trimming the hedges. The vibrant colors of the blossoms offer a temporary respite from the darkness that looms over my soul. The rhythmic snip of the shears serves as a backdrop to my contemplation.

As I work, doubts creep into my mind. Am I simply being dramatic? Could it be that this curse is nothing more than a figment of my imagination? But then, why do these hallucinations persist? Why do I feel this insatiable hunger for blood that threatens to consume me? The weight of uncertainty presses upon my shoulders, filling my heart with unease.

Yet, amidst the uncertainty, there is a glimmer of hope. The training, the strength I possess, it is a weapon that can be wielded against the darkness.

As the day draws to a close, and the chores are complete, I find solace in the fading sunlight. The peacefulness of the moment offers a brief respite from the turmoil within me. Tomorrow, I will continue my journey, seeking the truth, and facing the challenges that lie ahead. For now, I must rest and gather the strength needed to confront my inner demons.

And so, as I lay down, my thoughts swirling in a whirlwind of uncertainty, I pray for guidance and resilience. The road ahead is treacherous, but I am determined to walk it. For the sake of my family, for the sake of all those who have suffered at the hands of demons, I will not falter.