Solar Blade

'Visitor'

[Name] stood frozen for a moment, their heart racing as they recognized the figure that emerged from the dense underbrush. The memories flooded back with astonishing clarity—the strange man, cloaked in enigma, who had once performed an extraordinary feat of healing on them so many years ago. That moment had changed their life forever, and now, here he was again.

The man stepped fully into view, and even in the dim light of the fading evening, there was no mistaking his identity. He was indeed the same "doctor" who had restored their sight, and a sense of incredulity washed over [Name]. Their mind raced as they recalled his piercing gaze and the soothing warmth of his presence back then. But now, the air felt charged with an unsettling tension as memories entwined with the uncertainties of the present.

With instinct taking over, [Name] instinctively took a step back, the blade clenched tightly in their grip—a brilliant, shimmering blue weapon that caught the dim light and reflected it with fierce intensity. It stood as a symbol of their determination and caution, a barrier against whatever intentions this man might have now.

The figure before them possessed an ethereal quality that set him apart from ordinary human beings. His platinum blonde hair shimmered like spun silver, catching the last glimmers of sunlight as it framed his exceptionally pale skin. But it was his eyes—oh, those mesmerizing rainbow-coloured irises—that truly captivated and unsettled [Name]. They seemed to swirl with all the colours of the spectrum, shifting and changing, each hue carrying a distinct emotion, drawing [Name] in even as they fought to maintain their composure.

"You're not visiting, are you?" [Name] asked, their voice steadier than they felt. The questions bubbled to the surface, fueled by a mix of curiosity and wariness. What purpose did this enigmatic figure have in returning to their life after all these years? Was he here to help once more, or did he harbour another agenda entirely?

"Oh? What make you think that dear?" he asked, his godly eyes softening on [Name].

Do not let your guard down. Do not let your guard down, [Name] mentally reminded themselves as they brandished the sword, not afraid to strike. The aura this man gave off wasn't all that human. Tanjiro's sense of smell would be helpful here. But they didn't even have to guess that this must be a demon. Those rainbow eyes gave it away, clear as day.

"You must have reasons for this, demon."

The man simply smiled, a knowing expression on his face that sent shivers down [Name]'s spine like icy tendrils creeping along bare skin. His grin seemed almost predatory as if he were privy to secrets that [Name] had yet to uncover. "You're sharp-witted and incredibly strong," he said, his tone smooth and almost soothing despite the weight of his words. "Your skills will be important to the Demon Slayer Corps," the demon spoke, his voice wrapping around [Name] like a cloak, filled with both promise and challenge.

[Name] felt a mix of pride and scepticism swelling in their chest at the compliment. They had always strived to be a formidable fighter, and hearing affirmation from someone as unnerving as this man was dizzying. Yet, the tension in the air crackled with an underlying sense of foreboding, urging caution.

"And? You didn't come here to say that," [Name] snapped, unable to mask the irritation that laced their voice. Hadn't they just been through enough discussions where pleasantries were thrown around before the real issues were laid bare?

"Oh, but I did, didn't I?" the man replied, an enigmatic smile playing at the corners of his lips. The amusement in his eyes was unsettling, twisting like smoke in the cool air. "But you're right, I came here for something else," he responded, his gaze piercing through [Name] as if attempting to dig deep into their very soul. It was as if he were searching for answers, or perhaps even strengths, hidden beneath layers of uncertainty and self-doubt.

[Name] stood rooted to the spot, anticipation thrumming through them. The demon's presence felt almost suffocating, pushing them to confront the reality of the situation. It became startlingly clear that whatever he wanted was not merely a matter of life and death, but rather something that could redefine the very path [Name] had chosen to walk. With a determined grit, they prepared for whatever revelation lay ahead, fully aware that it was about to change everything.

To their surprise, the man began to walk in circles around them. He was wearing the exact clothing that Tanjiro had described him wearing all those years ago. Those tan hakama pants, that blood-red turtleneck top. [Name]'s eyes narrowed, following his movements cautiously. But then they blinked.

The man wasn't where he was just standing.

Suddenly, [Name] felt a hand grasp at their chin. They gasped as the demon grabbed them and inspected their face. [Name]'s brows creased together, their arms trying to push the demon away. The demon's stupid smile irritated [Name]. But then his expression grew disappointed as he pouted. "Aw, you're still so small and cute! You need to grow up a bit first!".

"Too small and cute for what? And let go!" [Name] shouted.

The demon fulfilled their request, letting go of [Name]'s face. He smiled, before running his hand through [Name]'s hair. Why did it feel, soothing? [Name]'s shoulders relaxed as he continued to run his hands through their hair. His eyes narrowed before his fingers gripped their hair, tugging it aggressively. [Name] cried out in pain as their hair was tugged.

"Aw, did I hurt you? I'm sorry. You were just too small and cute to notice my intention," the chuckled, letting go of them.

"Doma," [Name] spoke, remembering the name that he had given Tanjiro all those years ago. Now, they had two swords in hand. Their actual sword and the blue one that Doma had probably given them. They brandished both blades, each contradicting the other. One was rusty and unused while the other's bright light was almost blinding, "Leave. Before I make you."

A/N

Hi! I can't believe I'm at chapter 21 already! This is frickin insane for me. I realise that there are some Doma fans and haters here so I tried to satisfy all of you. Also, I'm having a bit of confusion. In the manga, I'm pretty sure his name is spelled 'Doma' but everyone spells it like 'Douma'. Honestly, I just went with the manga version because it's one letter less! But can someone tell me what version of his name they prefer?

Question: What spelling of Doma/Douma's name do you like the best?

Taisho Era Secret: Doma switched out [Name]'s blade