The Eternal Paradise Arc (Demon Slayer)

2 - Yumiko

Tanjiro's breath came in ragged gasps as he stood amidst the ruins of the Mugen Train. The night was thick with the scent of blood, and the swinging of swords and the cries of demons echoed in his memory.

In the midst of the chaos stood the towering figure of Upper Moon Three, the demon named Akaza. Malice swirled within his yellow orbs, piercing through the evening and staring deep into Tanjiro's soul.

"Tanjiro, was it?" Akaza grinned, tilting his head slightly.

Tanjiro nodded hesitantly, slowly reaching for his katana.

"You'd make a fine demon," Akaza paused, placing a hand on his hip and eyeing Tanjiro up and down. "Although, I get the feeling that becoming a demon doesn't interest you in the slightest."

"You! You're the one who killed Rengoku! You'll pay for what you've done!"

"Bold words," Akaza chortled in response. "Well, if that's the case," he cracked his knuckles, narrowing his brow. "Say hi to your family for me, little Tanjiro."

Akaza dashed forward, reeling back a fist to strike Tanjiro. However, he was forced to retreat as Rengoku Kyojuro, the Flame Hashira, inserted himself between Tanjiro and the Upper Moon, facing Akaza with steadfast determination.

Tanjiro was baffled.

"R-Rengoku?" he blinked. "But you're..."

You're dead.

"Tanjiro, stay back!" Rengoku's voice was firm, though strained from his wounds. Blood stained much of his attire. "I will not let this demon harm anyone else!"

Tanjiro, now clutching his Nichirin blade, felt his legs tremble as he watched a hauntingly familiar battle unfold.

"But I'm not injured! I can help!" It was true—he stood upright and was in perfect health.

Except his legs wouldn't budge.

He strained against the unknown force keeping him in place, confusion swirling in his mind. After glaring at his useless legs, Tanjiro glanced upwards, tears forming in his eyes.

Akaza's attacks were ruthless, each strike pushing Rengoku closer to the brink of death. The Flame Hashira fought valiantly, his tenacity a burning beacon in the night's shadows.

"Become a demon, Kyojuro!" Akaza laughed, his movements a blur as he targeted Rengoku's vital points. "You have so much potential! It's a waste for you to die as a human!"

"I will never become a demon!" Rengoku roared, his blade igniting with fiery resolve. "My duty is to protect the innocent and uphold justice!"

No.

No, no, no, no!

Tanjiro was on his feet this time! He actually had experience fighting Upper Moons! He wanted to help! He was more than capable of doing so!

So why couldn't he move?

Tanjiro was extremely frustrated with himself. What was wrong with him? An abrupt flash caught his eye, returning his focus back to the duel between Rengoku and Akaza.

"Rengoku!" Tanjiro shrieked, trying to warn the Hashira and correct his past mistakes. "Look out!"

With a final, devastating blow, Akaza's fist pierced through Rengoku's chest. Blood splattered, and Rengoku's eyes widened in shock and pain.

"No!" Tanjiro screamed, still trapped in place as Rengoku collapsed to his knees. The Flame Hashira's breathing grew shallow, his life gradually slipping away.

"T-Tanjiro," Rengoku whispered, a weak smile on his lips. "Become a Hashira. Protect... the others... I believe in you."

His eyes closed, and his body went still.