Midnight's Reign

Chapter 11

She left headquarters that same day, heading to intercept the boys who were already in route for their mission. She moved swiftly, with years of training under her belt, she didn't feel winded after trekking quite a distance in a short amount of time. She slowed her pace once she sensed she was close, letting her thoughts wander.

Her thoughts drifted to her dear friend. She was worried about Dina. Her behavior from the party seemed unlike her. But she made it clear that she wanted to be left alone. Asami chews her lip as she contemplates her choices. She desperately wants to help her but if she pursues that path, will that only anger her more? She doesn't want to create a damaging wedge in their relationship; maybe it's best to respect her boundaries. She should trust her friend's words:

'Trust that I can handle it.'

She's pushed out of her thoughts as she hears familiar voices up ahead. She smiles as she draws near, she's excited to see them. They haven't spotted her yet; they don't even know that she's coming to join them.

The trees surrounding them provide her with decent cover. Silent as a spirit, she leans against a tree with her arms crossed against her chest as she watches them. Their backs are turned to her; it seems they're in the middle of a silly argument.

"Dare me to eat it?" Inosuke says as he holds a colorful beetle in his hand.

Zenitsu rolls his eyes. "Why would I dare you? You're going to eat it anyway, even if I say no."

Tanjiro crinkles his nose. "You really shouldn't be eating random things you find in the woods."

Inosuke giggles manically. "I can eat whatever I want!" His hand moves towards his mouth, the innocent beetle is soon to be devoured.

"I wouldn't do that; those are poisonous." Asami says casually.

Zenitsu screams as he jumps into Tanjiro's arms, scared by her sudden arrival. Tanjiro and Zenitsu's eyes light up once they realize it's her.

"Asami!" They both shout with glee. She smiles and opens her arms as the two of them run towards her, giving her a hug. She giggles at their clear excitement upon seeing her.

"It's good to see you!" She says as she hugs them back. They seperate from the hug and she turns to look at Inosuke. He throws the beetle over his shoulder.

"Yeah, I knew it was poisonous. That was just a test." He says as he wipes his hands together, clearing them of dust.

She hums in response. "No hug?" She teases.

He crosses his arms and sticks his nose in the air. "Tch, hugs are for children."

His response only makes her smile wider. "If you say so."

Tanjiro speaks next. "What brings you here? Did you have a mission nearby?"

"I sought you out, actually. I'm going to join you on your mission."

Zenitsu hugs one of her legs as he wails. "Thank goodness! Now that we have a Hashira with us, I'll be safe! You'll protect me from evil demons, right?!"

Before she could reply, Inosuke grabbed Zenitsu by the collar and yanked him off her. "Stop acting like a baby and grow up!"

"Me grow up?!" You were about to eat a bug! A poisonous bug!"

The two bickered as they all continued onward. They weren't far from their destination; Tanjiro filled her in on the details as they walked. Somewhere in the forest ahead of them lies their target. The sun was beginning to set as they walked, all of them quiet as they kept their eyes and ears peeled for danger. Their blades were drawn at the ready.