The Mugen Incident

[Hello! The Author speaking! The following information I will provide for this train is fully fictional, and if there are similarities then it is purely a coincidence.]

A train rumbled through the slowly emerging sunlights as it made its way from Takasaki to Tokyo, its sleek form cutting through the dawn like a knife. The train was a new addition to the railway line and train service of "Takato Tetsudo"- (高都鉄道 - High Capital Railway), having been built only a few years earlier in the Taisho period, and it was called "Northern Wind" - (北風号) - the name reflecting the pride of the Japanese people in their modernizing, industrializing nation and the fact that it connects the northern regions of Japan with the rest of the country.

The train with its sleek lines and engines designed to transport passengers quickly and comfortably across Japan's northern coast, through the highlands of Japan, and to its heart, Tokyo.

As the train rumbled towards Tokyo from Takasaki, the first light of dawn began to illuminate the sky. On one side of the train, the piercing whistle echoed through the valleys, a haunting melody that spoke of the beauty and loneliness of the passing landscape. The train's windows offered a panoramic view of the changing scenery. On one side, the rugged mountains rose, their peaks shrouded in mist and mystery. On the other side, the landscape gave way to sprawling fields and forests, with the early morning light casting a warm glow over the once-dark countryside. The train continued its journey, the changing landscape was now visible in full detail. The once-dark mountains were now illuminated in the soft morning light, their rugged beauty on full display. The fields and forests were now alive with the first light of day, a testament to the natural beauty of the Japanese countryside.

The Northern Wind roared through, its powerful steam engines propelling it across the rugged terrain of Japan. The train was a marvel of modern technology, with its sleek lines and gleaming brass fittings reflecting the light of the waking sun. The passengers were lost in their thoughts, their faces illuminated by the soft glow of the train's lamps that would eventually turn off.

The train was a magnificent, true marvel of modern engineering that represented the pinnacle of technological achievements of that time. Its sleek lines and streamlined form was a testament to the ingenuity and skill of its designers, who had created a machine that was both beautiful and functional.

The train was powered by massive steam engines, their pistons pumping with a rhythmic beat that echoed through the morning singing of birds. The engines were a symphony of steel and brass, their polished surfaces gleaming in the dawn. The passengers could feel the raw power of the engines coursing through the train, the vibrations of their movement were felt in every corner of the carriages as some woke up due to the harsh sunlight already piercing their eyes.

But it wasn't just the physical design of the train that was impressive. The Northern Wind was also a technological marvel, equipped with the latest advancements in railway technology. Its suspension system was state-of-the-art, designed to absorb the bumps and jolts of the tracks and provide a smooth and comfortable ride for the passengers.

The train's steam engines were also a sign of the ingenuity and skill of its engineers. They were finely tuned machines, capable of generating immense power and speed with incredible efficiency. The engines roared like mighty beasts, their steam whistles announcing the train's arrival at each station along the way.

Inside the train, the passengers were seated in plush, comfortable seats, their backs supported by soft cushions, upholstered in the finest materials, and designed to provide maximum comfort to the passengers. The train's fittings and furnishings were equally impressive, showing the great attention to detail and craftsmanship that had gone into the train's design. Gleaming brass fittings adorned every surface, their polished surfaces reflecting the light. The train's staff moved quietly through the carriages, attending to the passengers' needs with quiet efficiency. The staff was dressed in crisp, tailored uniforms, their brass buttons gleaming in the light. The train's dining car was a marvel of modern engineering, with polished wood paneling and soft lighting that created an air of intimacy and warmth. The passengers dined on delicious meals, served on fine china, and accompanied by the finest wines. The train's chefs were renowned for their culinary skills, and the passengers savored every bite of their sumptuous meals.

The minutes ticked by slowly, each one filled with the promise of adventure and excitement. The passengers watched as the sun slowly moved to dominate the sky once more, casting strange shadows on the landscape outside. The passengers were lost in their thoughts, or their sweet dreams, their hearts pounding with excitement and anticipation. They felt as though they were part of a grand adventure, one that would be remembered for a lifetime.

This whole scene was like a symphony in motion, a masterpiece of sight, sound, and engineering. Its powerful steam engines were like the beating heart of the train, driving it forward with perfect precision and rhythm. The train's sleek lines and gleaming brass fittings were like the strings and brass of an orchestra, each detail perfectly crafted to create a harmonious whole, that many people pushed aside.

The success of the Takato Tetsudo was immediate and astounding. Within just one year of its launch, the express train had become the preferred mode of transportation for many tourists using the Joetsu line that run between Niigata, Takasaki, and Tokyo. Such was its popularity that the train was already equipped with additional first-class carriages to cater to the high demand.

The first-class carriage of the Kokutetsu Express was a luxurious and spacious compartment, with plush carpeting and elegant furnishings. The walls were paneled with polished wood, and the ceiling was adorned with intricate moldings and delicate chandeliers that cast a warm and inviting glow throughout the space. The seats were upholstered in the finest fabrics, providing ultimate comfort to the passengers.

As the Northern Wind continued on its journey toward Tokyo, something seemed off with one of the first-class carriages. It was noticeably quieter than the other carriages, with a strange stillness that seemed to linger in the air.

The usual hum of conversation and the soft rustle of clothing that typically filled the first-class compartment were absent. Instead, a hushed silence seemed to have descended over the carriage, broken only by the rhythmic sound of the train's wheels on the tracks.

The other passengers in the first-class compartment seemed to have noticed the unusual stillness as well, casting curious glances toward the quiet carriage.

A woman sat alone in one of the first-class seats, her posture straight and refined. She was dressed in a simple yet elegant navy blue gown, made from fine silk and adorned with delicate lace detailing. Her hair was styled in an elaborate chignon, with a few loose strands framing her delicate features. She wore no jewelry save for a single strand of pearls around her neck, which glinted softly in the dim light of the carriage. Her makeup was minimal, accentuating the natural beauty of her features.

But these luxurious surroundings were only masked by an ominous aura that seemed to surround the woman, or the devil's brood, named Eudokia. She sat with her back straight, her hands folded neatly in her lap, and her gaze fixed on some distant point outside the train. Her expression was one of boredom, and perhaps even a hint of melancholy.

The window drapes were all drawn, shutting out the natural light and casting the carriage into a dimly lit ambiance. The only light came from the grand chandeliers mounted on the ceiling, casting a soft, warm glow over the woman's features. The rhythmic sound of the train's wheels on the tracks and the distant hum of the engines filled the compartment, creating a soothing background hum that did little to ease the woman's boredom. The woman's mind wandered, lost in thought. Her thoughts were perhaps of some distant memory or a future unknown to anyone. She seemed to be lost in a world of her own, disconnected from the luxurious surroundings of the first-class compartment.

With the grandeur of her surroundings and the luxury of her accommodations, the woman seemed to be searching for something. Perhaps she was searching for a sense of purpose, or maybe even a sense of belonging. Her gaze remained fixed on the drapes even though she could not see though, as if searching for something that would bring her peace and contentment.

As the woman sat lost in her thoughts, a staff member entered the first-class carriage with a polite bow. He was a young man dressed in a smart uniform, with a crisp white shirt and a black tie. He carried a tray with a selection of teas and snacks, which he offered to the passengers with a deferential bow.

"Excuse me, madam, would you care for some tea or a snack?" he asked, his voice low and respectful.

The woman did not respond, her gaze still fixed on the window drapes. The staff member felt a sense of unease in the carriage. He had served many passengers on the Northern Wind, but there was something different about this particular carriage. The stillness seemed to weigh heavily on him, and he felt a chill run down his spine as if nobody was in the carriage.

"Is everything alright, madam?" he asked again, a hint of nervousness creeping into his voice.

The woman's eyes, like pools of liquid lapis lazuli, finally turned towards the staff member. Her expression, seemingly inscrutable, held a hint of mystery and intrigue. Her gaze lingered on him for a moment, as if taking in every detail of his being, before she spoke in a low, measured tone that sent shivers down his spine.

"Thank you for your kind offer, but I am quite content as I am. I have no need for tea or snacks at the moment," she exclaimed with a smile, but then, her heart sank as the staff member referred to her as "madam".

"Madam?!" she thought to herself, her mind racing with a mixture of outrage and disbelief. "Do I really look that old? No way! I'm only 94 years old, and my body has taken on the form of my 22-year-old self, and yet, this worm has the audacity to call me 'madam,' isn't it clear?"

Her thoughts became increasingly hysterical as she tried to calm herself down. "Maybe it's just a slip of the tongue," she thought. "Perhaps he didn't mean to offend me. But still, I can't let this stand. I need to make him understand that I am not to be trifled with..." Before she would release her killing intent toward the man, she quickly dismissed the idea, remembering her master.

"No, do not let this take the better out of you, Лорд - (Lord) Hidemasa would be disappointed if I would lose my temper over something so trivial."

And so, with a deep breath, she turned her gaze back to the window, lost once more in her thoughts.

The staff member was entranced by her beauty and grace, yet a creeping feeling started to emerge from his soul. He could not help but wonder why she did not draw back the drapes if she so longed to gaze upon the outside world. He found himself lost in thought, pondering the enigma that was this mysterious woman.

As he stood there, lost in his reverie, a sudden urge overtook him. He longed to be of service to her, to offer her any comfort or aid that she might require as this is one of Northern Wind staff's duties. And so, with a brave heart, he stepped forward and spoke in a voice trembling with emotion.

"Forgive me, madame, but if it would please you, might I be so bold as to draw back the drapes for you? So that you might better see the of the view beyond?"

The woman's gaze turned towards him once more, and at that moment, he felt a shiver run down his spine. He couldn't quite decipher the look in her eyes, but it seemed to hold a certain animosity as if she was sizing him up for something terrible.

Eudokia almost lash out at him with a single swift blow that would decapitate him as she heard 'madame' once more. The young man also felt a sudden surge of protecting himself from the unknown. But to his surprise, she simply smiled a small and inscrutable smile that sent a chill down his spine.

"Thank you," she murmured, her voice soft and musical. "But it is not needed."

He couldn't quite fathom what had just transpired, and for a moment, he stood rooted to the spot, unsure of what to do next.

"Indeed... It is not needed." A voice deep and rough shattered the silence like it had appeared from nowhere, as none of the doors seemed to open. It was a voice that seemed to carry the weight of experience and strength, and it sent shivers down his spine. He felt a strong grip on his shoulder, firm and unyielding, as a hand reached out and claimed him.

Slowly he turned his head, heart thumping with a mix of fear and anticipation, to behold a man whose height towered over him by nearly two heads, as his greatcoat and fedora hat made this sight even more menacing. His presence was dominant and commanding. The man's hand tightened on his shoulder giving him slight pain. But the man only made a generous smile toward him.

The man's voice was like gravel, rough and deep, as he spoke. "However, if it is not too much trouble, might I request a cup of tea? I have always had a particular fondness for the delicate and refreshing taste of green tea. I have been curious to try Gyokuro tea for some time now. I have heard so many wonderful things about its unique flavor profile and exquisite aroma, and I would be delighted to savor it if I were already here in Japan, " he exclaimed with great enthusiasm, confusing a bit the young man in a good sense.

"Bring one to my dear as well, she would also use one," he leaned in closer to the young man, his voice dropped to a conspiratorial whisper, and a playful glint shone in his eyes. "She can be a bit shy at times if you catch my meaning," he said with a chuckle, his words carrying a touch of fondness and endearment. But the woman's gaze did not bore the same which really made the young staff member feel uncomfortable as he chuckled with the man for moments.

"Certainly, sir! Your request for Gyokuro tea is a wise one, as it is not only renowned for its exceptional taste but also its numerous health benefits. I will do my best to check if we have some in our inventory and if it is available, I will be more than happy to prepare it for you."

With a smile of appreciation, the man expressed his gratitude. "Oh, thank you!" he exclaimed in a cheerful tone. He took his seat across from the woman, who had closed her eyes for reasons unknown.

With a courteous and attentive manner, he conveyed his eagerness to fulfill the man's request. He took pride in his knowledge of the various types of tea and their unique properties, and he was pleased to share his expertise with the man as he left, closing the carriage door.

Suddenly, the woman's eyes shot open with a menacing look and her face contorted into a passive-aggressive expression. The once serene atmosphere was now disrupted by her sudden change in demeanor, and the man felt a wave of confusion wash over him, or at least it was an act of being confused.

With a note of frustration in his voice, he addressed the source of his annoyance. "Would you please cease this behavior of yours? It is quite tiresome to witness you utilizing your inhuman speed and accuracy to appear as though you have suddenly materialized out of nowhere, then acting like you know nothing as you witness how scared they are. Furthermore, it is difficult to not refer to me as 'dear,' Jiacheng?"

With an apologetic tone, he raised a hand to his fedora hat and said, "I must apologize for my old habit. Try as I might, I cannot seem to grow out of it." As he removed the fedora hat, he revealed a neatly trimmed, black brush cut, sitting down on the opposite side of her, finding his place inside the very comfortable armchair similar to Eudokia's, only separated by a well-chiseled table placed between them.

As he looked at her, his cheerful expression turned serious, and the once-relaxed atmosphere in the carriage became tense beyond measure. Eudokia herself felt uneasy under his gaze. "There's something else I wanted to ask you," he said, pausing for effect. "If 'dear' appears to annoy you, would you prefer it if I called you 'darling' instead?" The tension dissipated instantly as his previously solemn expression was replaced by a silly grin.

To Eudokia's surprise, his question elicited a sharp and outraged response. "Huh?!" she exclaimed, her tone laced with irritation. "Are you an idiot? Of course not! You monkey, no, gorilla, given your proportions!" she exclaimed, her tone in hysteria. Her eyebrows furrowed, and she scrunched her nose up in annoyance as she crossed her arms tightly across her chest. She turned away from him, her body language indicating that she was not pleased with his question.

Jiacheng, however, could not hide the wide grin that stretched across his face. He had hoped for a more gracious response from her, but he found her outburst somewhat amusing. "You know, if you said that to other Lunar Eclipses, you would have been already devoured..." he said, still grinning from ear to ear with a slight warning tone.

Eudokia's irritation was palpable, and she let out a deep sigh as she slowly turned her head back to face Jiacheng. Her eyes narrowed slightly, and she tilted her head, studying him for a moment before speaking. "That does not concern me as they at least try to hear my pleas out, unlike you."

Jiacheng leaned slightly closer to Eudokia, showing her his slightly burned face on the right. She recoiled slightly, her eyes widening in surprise at the sight of his scarred skin. "It seems you should've come back earlier..." she said, her tone disappointed.

Jiacheng's eyes flicked to the side as he pulled his hand through his face, examining the dead cells that were slowly coming off and leaving a nasty scar. He winced slightly at the sight but quickly composed himself. "Oh, so you did notice," he said, turning back to Eudokia with a small smile. His voice was calm, but there was a hint of discomfort in his tone.

He paused for a moment, looking down at his hand again before continuing. "Well, this is still fine," he said, trying to reassure both Eudokia and himself. "The sunlight is still weak at that time to burn me into ashes, but I have to admit it is quite infuriating that I can't heal it at the moment." He looked up, meeting Eudokia's gaze. "It's one of the privileges of being one of the Lunar Eclipses. We're quite resistant to sunlight, as we receive Hidemasa Zhǎngménrén-(Master)'s blood more often than you, Full-Moons." Jiacheng's eyes glinted with a sense of pride and belonging as he spoke with amusement, leaning back slightly.

"Anyway, I couldn't just leave my little chatting group as the sun began to rise. It would have looked quite suspicious, don't you think?" he said, his voice light and teasing. "I don't know if ordinary people know about the existence of demons here, but I don't want to take my chances. The fewer things to worry about the better."

"I suppose you have a point there," she said, rolling her eyes as he managed to explain himself a bit too well, regarding his sloppiness. "So, what interesting pieces of information did you find?" she asked, her tone eager.

Jiacheng's expression turned serious. "Have you heard about the Mugen train derailment?" he asked, his voice low and solemn.

"Of course not, how could I? Don't play jokes with me. Just tell me already..."

"Alright." he hummed before continuing. "Four months ago, a train named Mugen was derailed in a very mysterious way," he explained. "It was traveling from Tokyo towards Akita on the Tokyo-Fukushima line, but before the train could arrive at Korijama, it was already on the ground, digging itself into the mud with questionable damages, mainly cuts, slashes, and dents."

Eudokia tilted her head in confusion as she tried to make sense of Jiacheng's words. "So what's the importance of it?" she asked, hoping for some clarification.

Jiacheng's eyes gleamed mischievously as he leaned in towards Eudokia. "Wait for it, de-"

Eudokia quickly cut him off, her expression turning pained. "Please," she said, her voice strained. "At least if we're alone... don't."

Jiacheng shrugged his shoulders slightly, his expression troubled. "Fine," he said with a sigh. "No one knows for sure what caused this train derailment." He paused for a moment, his eyes scanning the room before continuing. "There are all kinds of rumors and theories floating around, but nothing has been confirmed. Some people say it was an accident, while others believe it was sabotage. However, they did not find signs of sabotaging nor any malfunction that might cause this."

Eudokia's eyes widened in surprise at the mention of a supernatural occurrence. "Oh, so it means..." she trailed off, unsure of what to say.

Jiacheng nodded grimly in response. "Indeed, presumably demons that originated from Hidemasa's former zhǎngménrén in this land are wreaking havoc," he said, his voice low and filled with anger. "They do not seem to appreciate such mechanical masterpieces if they just casually destroy them without a second thought." He shook his head slightly, his eyes burning with a fierce determination. "This makes my blood boil."

Eudokia furrowed her brow in deep thought, trying to piece together the events that had led to the destruction before them. "Perhaps," she said, her voice low and contemplative. "It's possible that there was a fight between the demon and the local Devil's Crusaders..." She trailed off, her finger lightly tapping against her forehead as she tried to remember something, then suddenly images started popping up. "The Demon Slayer Corps, if Hidemasa's memories are right."

"That might explain those 'questionable' damages on the train," he mused on the thought to only look down with a sad expression. "Then it means even some people cannot appreciate their phenomenal achievements. How... disheartening."

"Anyway, how could the people on this train get such information? Isn't it classified or something?"

"You know, gossip is like water, it always finds a hole where it can flow out... You should know that firsthand as a woman," he grinned as Eudokia rolled her eyes with annoyance clearly seen on her face.

"Ha-ha very funny Jiacheng," exclaimed full of irony. "But back to the topic, you say?" Eudokia questioned him once more as this did not seem to have any meaning to her, other than whining about a pile of metal and coal.

Eudokia furrowed her brow in confusion, still struggling to make sense of what Jiacheng was trying to tell her. "So, in other words, what are you saying?" she asked, hoping for some clarification.

Jiacheng took a deep breath before beginning. "Almost all of the survivors of the Mugen train derailment were asleep at the time of the accident, for reasons that are still unknown," he explained. "However, the few who managed to wake up while the crash occurred reported seeing a fierce battle between two individuals. One of them was a passenger on the train, but the other was an unknown individual." Eudokia now looked a bit interested, hearing this. "And, of course, the survivors who witnessed it were immediately placed into an asylum following the interrogation, also the fight's outcome is not clear as he couldn't see it till the end. The government has been trying to hush it up ever since, not wanting to get their hands dirty with something they can't explain."

Eudokia's expression changed from one of confusion to joy upon hearing Jiacheng's words. "I see," she said, her voice laced with excitement. "I see, you're saying that this unknown newcomer might be one of the members of Muzan's planned inner circle back when Лорд Hidemasa was still loyal to Muzan?"

Jiacheng nodded gravely. "It's a possibility," he said. "If they possess a similar aura to us, then it's likely that they are a member of Muzan's inner circle. And if that's the case, then we have to be even more careful and vigilant than ever before, seeing how freely they could move. We are only here to deliver a message to Azabu that is now located in Tokyo, not to engage in any type of combat if it is unnecessary."

Eudokia raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement in her voice. "I think it's you who needs to remember that, Jiacheng," she said teasingly. "You always get so excited whenever there's something new or interesting to study. I wouldn't be surprised if you were the one itching for a fight if we ever came across one of Muzan's inner circle members."

"Oh, do not worry," he chuckled. " Only if the situation is interesting enough to pique my curiosity," he added with an ominous grin as he placed his fedora hat back in its royal place, on his head.

As if on cue, the young waiter appeared at the carriage door and made his way over to the two with a broad smile on his face, his timing impeccable, holding a tray in his hand. Upon the tray sat a delicate teapot, adorned with intricate floral patterns, and two matching teacups. The waiter's movements were precise and graceful as if he were performing a dance. With a gentle hand, the waiter lifted the lid of the teapot, revealing the Gyokuro tea inside. The tea leaves were a vibrant green, tightly rolled into small pellets, and emitted a sweet, grassy aroma that filled the air. The waiter poured the tea into the cups, the liquid a pale green hue, and placed them in front of the couple.

"Here is the Gyokuro tea, Sir!" the waiter announced, turning his head slightly towards the woman. "Madam!" He then placed the tea on the table in front of him followed by Eudokia with the same friendly smile.

Eudokia couldn't help but feel a twinge of annoyance at being called 'madam' once more. She tried to hide her irritation behind a gentle smile, but her thoughts were racing as it hit her. He called her madam because he saw her with Jiacheng. But then she thought why would he called her madam before? Did he assume she was already engaged with a man because of her otherworldly, beautiful, appearance? Her romanticist mind spun with possibilities, and she found herself fidgeting in the heat of the moment...

We should leave her to believe that.

x-x-x

As the sun finally took over the skies in front of the known butterfly mansion a man with an ostentatious appearance with a very tall, broad-shouldered, and muscular build with lightly-tanned skin and white hair whipped in the gentle breeze. As walked his weapons clanged on his back wrapped by clothes, a clear indication of his prowess in combat. He was followed by three very interesting-looking teens one strange or more normal than the other. One with a boar mask, one with blonde hair and an uneasy look, and one with black hair and burgundy tips.

"So..." he began, the words dripping with swagger. "Where are we going, geezer?" he asked, placing his hands on his hips.

The man with the white hair slightly turned to face the trio, his expression unreadable for a few moments. Then, to their surprise, he broke into a wide smile.

"To the most flamboyant place in all of Japan, filled with lust and greed," he declared, his voice filled with excitement. The trio looked at him with a mixture of confusion and anticipation, wondering where he was leading them, their face aching for answers.

The man suddenly turned his head completely around, as if to emphasize his point. "The 'Red Light District' where the demons live," he exclaimed, his voice ringing with a sense of adventure.

The trio exchanged glances, unsure of what to make of this sudden change in direction.