A Choice.

❀✧Unspoken Emotions and Unfulfilled Hopes✧❀

(IDK WHAT TO PUT FOR THE TITLE HELPPPP)

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Tanjiro stirred as the first light of dawn filtered through the leaves of the tree he had been resting in. Slowly opening his eyes, he took a deep breath, the morning air crisp and refreshing. He stretched, feeling the slight ache in his muscles from the previous day's efforts, then carefully descended the tree, each step cautious and deliberate to avoid making any noise. The soft rustling of the leaves accompanied his movements, a gentle symphony heralding the start of a new day. As his feet touched the ground, Tanjiro straightened up and made his way toward the house. The hallway stretched out before him, its dimly lit interior casting long shadows that seemed to dance on the walls. With each step, the sense of unease grew stronger. The quietness of the house was almost oppressive, and Tanjiro couldn't shake the feeling that he was being watched. His heartbeat quickened, and a shiver ran down his spine, the hairs on the back of his neck standing on end. He paused for a moment, glancing over his shoulder, but the hallway remained empty. Swallowing hard, he forced himself to continue, his footsteps echoing softly.

Reaching his bedroom door, Tanjiro hesitated for a second before pushing it open. Relief washed over him as he saw Nezuko lying peacefully on his bed, her chest rising and falling with each gentle breath. A soft smile tugged at his lips, and the tension in his shoulders eased. Nezuko's presence was a constant source of comfort and strength for him, and knowing she was safe brought him immeasurable relief. He moved quietly across the room, careful not to wake her, and approached the small table by the window.

From his pocket, he pulled out a little black notebook, its worn cover and frayed edges a testament to its frequent use. Placing it gently on the table, he let out a sigh. The notebook contained his thoughts, observations, and plans - a vital tool in his journey to protect his sister and defeat the demons that threatened their world. With one last glance at Nezuko, Tanjiro felt a renewed determination settle within him.

Tanjiro was still feeling the lingering effects of his injuries from the Mugen Train mission. Every movement sent a dull ache through his body, a constant reminder of the battle they had fought and the sacrifices made. He lay on his futon on his bed where Nezuko was still sleeping, the gentle hum of activity around him a stark contrast to the chaos that had unfolded on the train. Despite the pain, Tanjiro's thoughts were consumed by a pressing matter: he needed to send a message to Rengoku's little brother. The memory of Rengoku's final moments was etched deeply into Tanjiro's mind. He could still hear the Flame Hashira's confident voice and see his unwavering smile, even in the face of death. It was up to Tanjiro to convey Rengoku's last wishes, but he was at a loss for how to do it. Leaving the Butterfly Estate seemed impossible; Kocho would certainly scold him and demand he return to bed if he even attempted it. Her stern but caring demeanor was not something he wished to challenge, yet his determination to fulfill Rengoku's last request outweighed his fear of reprimand.

Not only did Tanjiro want to tell the Rengoku family about Kyojuro's last wishes, but he also had another crucial reason for visiting them. He hoped to find out more about the Hinokami Kagura. Kyojuro had mentioned that the Rengoku family might possess valuable information about this powerful technique. Tanjiro believed that learning more about the Hinokami Kagura could significantly enhance his skills and improve his ability to use it effectively in battle. Therefore, his visit was not just an act of respect and duty but also possibly a vital step in his journey to become stronger.

With a resolute nod to himself, Tanjiro made up his mind. He was going to run to the Flame Estate and deliver the message personally. Rengoku's brother deserved to hear the truth directly from him, the one who had witnessed the tragedy firsthand. Slowly, Tanjiro rose from his bed, every muscle protesting against the movement. He winced but pressed on, determination fueling his every step. As he slipped quietly through the Butterfly Estate, careful not to alert anyone to his departure, Tanjiro's mind swirled with a mix of emotions. The thought of Rengoku's death brought a sharp pang of sorrow. He had not only lost a mentor and comrade but also felt a deep sense of grief for Rengoku's family. The Flame Pillar had been a beacon of hope and strength, and his loss was a wound that cut deep into Tanjiro's heart.