|| RIVALS AND ROMANCES || sanegiyuu

Chapter Eleven - Honoring the Fallen

Giyu Tomioka returned from his mission weary but resolute. As he changed out of his demon slayer uniform, he carefully hung his haori back on its peg. The haori, a cherished garment, was composed of two halves: one side was his elder sister Tsutako's kimono, and the other was his best friend Sabito's. Both had died protecting him, and he wore the haori as a constant reminder of their sacrifice and the weight of his own survival.

For special occasions like Kyojuro's funeral, Giyu donned a pale blue kimono paired with oversized black pants that trailed past his feet. Tonight, as he prepared to visit Kyojuro's grave with Tanjirou Kamado, he wore the same outfit, feeling its significance.

Tanjirou waited for him at the entrance of the estate, his usual bright smile tinged with sorrow. Together, they made their way to the graveyard that housed the final resting places of countless demon slayers. The evening air was cool, carrying with it the faint scent of blooming flowers and the soft rustle of leaves.

When they arrived at Kyojuro's grave, Giyu silently placed a bouquet of red roses at the headstone, honoring his fallen comrade. Tanjirou, noticing the gesture, set down Kyojuro's katana—the same blade he had died holding. The two of them stood in silence for a moment, the weight of their loss pressing heavily on their hearts.

Suddenly, they heard a fluttering above them. Kyojuro's crow, with its eyes wet from crying, descended from the trees and landed in front of the grave. Its usually bright and cheerful demeanor was subdued as it managed to get out a few words, "Me miss him..."

Giyu felt a lump form in his throat. The crow's simple yet profound expression of grief mirrored their own. Tanjirou knelt beside the bird, gently stroking its feathers. "We all miss him," he said softly, his voice filled with empathy. "He was a beacon of light for all of us."

Giyu nodded, his eyes fixed on Kyojuro's grave. "Kyojuro was... more than just a warrior. He embodied the spirit of what it means to be a demon slayer. His courage, his unyielding optimism, and his unwavering sense of duty... they will always be remembered."

Tanjirou looked up at Giyu, his eyes shining with determination. "We must continue his legacy, Giyu-san. We must fight with the same passion and dedication that Kyojuro did. He would want us to carry on, to protect those who cannot protect themselves."

Giyu's expression softened slightly as he regarded Tanjirou. The young slayer's resilience and spirit reminded him of Kyojuro. "You're right, Tanjirou. We must honor his memory by continuing the fight. Together."

They stood in silent vigil, the crow perched solemnly beside them. The night grew darker, and the stars began to twinkle in the sky, a silent reminder of those who had gone before them. As they turned to leave, Giyu glanced back at the grave one last time.

"Kyojuro," he murmured, "we will never forget you."

Tanjirou placed a comforting hand on Giyu's shoulder as they walked back through the graveyard, their steps slow and deliberate. The weight of their shared loss was heavy, but so too was their resolve to honor Kyojuro's memory by continuing to fight against the darkness.

As they exited the graveyard, Tanjirou spoke again, his voice filled with hope. "Giyu-san, let's make sure that Kyojuro's light continues to shine through us. Let's protect everyone, just like he would have."

Giyu nodded, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. "Yes, Tanjirou. For Kyojuro."

Together, they left the cemetery, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, knowing that the spirit of Kyojuro Rengoku would always guide them.