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(Artist: Archery🌈) (🎉REQUESTS ARE OPEN🎉)
A couple of days later, you found yourself bound by the kakushi, sitting before Ubuyashiki as the Hashira stood behind you. You were put on trial. You glanced back at Rengoku. He stood with the other Hashira, his expression carefully neutral, but his eyes were fixed firmly on you, unwavering in their intensity. He met your gaze and gave you a subtle nod—a small gesture of reassurance. Despite the trial, his presence was a constant reminder that he would not abandon you. Ubuyashiki's voice sliced through the tension in the room as he began the trial, calm yet resolute. "We've gathered here today to address the case of a Slayer who has turned into a demon. We have heard the testimony and examined the evidence. Now, it is time to determine the appropriate course of action."
Ubuyashiki's gaze shifted to Rengoku, noting his steadfast presence. "We know that Flame Hashira, Rengoku has advocated for your case," Ubuyashiki stated. Rengoku nodded, arms crossed over his chest, his stance resolute. "Yes, Master." Ubuyashiki regarded him for a moment longer before turning his attention back to you. "Rengoku has requested leniency on your behalf. Can you tell us what happened the night of the incident?" You froze under his scrutiny, sweat trickling down your face as your gaze remained fixed on the ground. "Yes, Master... I was stationed in a small village in the mountains for a mission when I encountered a powerful demon."
Ubuyashiki nodded, his expression serious and attentive as he listened. The other Hashira observed closely, their eyes locked on you, while Rengoku's gaze remained steady on your face, concern etched in his features. "I only saw him for a split second, but he was unlike any demon I've encountered. He didn't even kill me; he just managed to scratch me, and that was enough to turn me into a demon." The room fell into a heavy silence as the weight of your words sank in. The other Hashira exchanged uneasy glances, their expressions growing even more serious. Rengoku's grip on his biceps tensed slightly, his jaw clenched. Ubuyashiki's gaze softened a bit as he leaned back in his seat, pondering your words. "And you don't recall anything else about this demon?" he asked.
"I don't remember anything else. I'm sorry..." Ubuyashiki nodded, briefly glancing at Rengoku before turning his attention back to you. The room remained silent, the air heavy with tension. Finally, Ubuyashiki let out a soft sigh. "And you claim that you've been able to control your urges, that you haven't harmed anyone yet?" "I bit off a limb of a civilian. I'm so sorry, Master..." The revelation sent a ripple of unease among the Hashira, and Rengoku's eyes widened slightly, his grip on his own arm tightening further. Ubuyashiki, however, remained composed, his face revealing little emotion. "You... bit off a civilian's limb?" he repeated, his voice firm yet not unkind.
"Yes. That was when Master Rengoku found me afterward." Ubuyashiki turned his gaze to Rengoku, who understood the silent prompt to speak. Rengoku stepped forward, his voice a firm yet gentle rumble as he addressed Ubuyashiki. "I can vouch for her, Master Ubuyashiki," he said. "While it's true she bit off a civilian's limb, she has since gained control over her urges. She hasn't harmed anyone since that incident." Ubuyashiki nodded, reflecting on Rengoku's words. He turned his attention back to you, his expression thoughtful. "And you're certain you can maintain control?" he asked. "That you won't give in to the demon's urges again?" Rengoku stepped forward once more, his voice interrupting before you could respond. "I will take responsibility for her," he said firmly.
"I will ensure that she doesn't harm anyone. I swear it." You shook your head. "Please don't do this, Master Rengoku. This is my burden to bear." Rengoku's expression softened, a flicker of irritation crossing his features. He looked at you, his gaze filled with a blend of determination and concern. "Be quiet," he said firmly. "This isn't just your burden. I won't stand by and let you suffer alone." The other Hashira exchanged surprised glances at Rengoku's forceful tone. Ubuyashiki's eyes shifted between the two of you. "You're willing to take responsibility for her, Kyojuro?" he asked, his voice revealing a hint of curiosity. Rengoku's gaze remained steady, his expression firm and resolute. "I am," he said, his voice strong and unwavering. "I will ensure she doesn't harm anyone. You have my word."
Ubuyashiki nodded, studying Rengoku for a moment longer, taking in the Hashira's resolute expression. Then, he let out a soft sigh and turned to address the rest of the Hashira. "I trust the judgment of our Flame Hashira, especially given his reputation for an unwavering sense of duty," he said. "We will allow this under two conditions." Your eyes widened at Ubuyashiki's acceptance. The other Hashira looked surprised, clearly not expecting this turn of events. Rengoku's expression hardened, his focus entirely on Ubuyashiki as he awaited the conditions. Ubuyashiki's gaze returned to you, his eyes cool and composed. He spoke calmly but firmly, each word weighted with authority.
"Firstly, you will be under the watchful eye of the Flame Hashira at all times. He will be responsible for your training, care, and actions." Rengoku nodded in agreement, the determination in his eyes unwavering. The other hashira watched silently, their expressions a mix of surprise and mild disbelief at the turn of events. Ubuyashiki continued, his voice never wavering. "Secondly, if she shows any signs of uncontrollable urges or poses a threat to the Demon Slayer Corps, you will give her a swift and painless death." You bowed your head. "Thank you, Master." Ubuyashiki's gaze softened slightly as he nodded. "Very well. Then the matter is settled." The other Hashira whispered among themselves, clearly surprised and somewhat unconvinced.
Rengoku's gaze flicked to them, his jaw tightening as he met their stares with a firm glare. The kakushi untied you and stepped back. You stood up and hugged Rengoku. "Thank you, Master." Rengoku wrapped his arms around you, returning the embrace firmly. He whispered words meant only for you, his voice filled with a blend of determination and concern. "Everything will be alright," he said, his voice just loud enough for you to hear. "I promise."
