Chapter Twenty Four

Demeter's steps were silent as she walked through the manor's corridors, her heart quickening as the source of the energy drew nearer.

She rounded a corner and stepped out into the open space, her eyes widening at the breathtaking sight before her.

Over 30 members of the Demeter Familia had gathered, their faces illuminated by the fiery dance that unfolded in the centre.

The torches blazed like stars, and in their midst stood Muichiro, his movements a mesmerizing blend of art and devotion. The flames seemed to respond to his every gesture, leaping and swirling in response to the dance's rhythm.

As Demeter watched, she couldn't help but feel a surge of pride and amazement.

Muichiro's dedication to the dance. Both the Hinokami Kagura and Sun Breathing are Breathing Styles that mimic the sun and replicate it with the user's movements, techniques, and abilities.

All techniques and forms are extremely varied and have no set pattern, making them the most versatile and effective against demons. Users of Sun Breathing visualize themselves seemingly manipulating solar flames when unleashing its techniques.

This was also training for Muichiro, whilst performing the dance, he was also performing the breathing forms of the technique.

...

The sky continued to brighten, its canvas now painted with shades of gold and blue.

And as the first rays of sunlight broke through the horizon, Muichiro executed the final move of the dance, his wooden sword slicing the air with a flourish.

The torches blazed with renewed intensity, their flames reaching toward the heavens in a triumphant display.

The dance was complete.

As the last echoes of the dance's energy hung in the air, Muichiro lowered his sword and stood with a sense of quiet accomplishment.

His breath was steady, his body unburdened by fatigue. The sun had fully risen, its warm rays embracing the scene with a tender embrace.

Demeter's presence and others watching was now felt by Muichiro, her steps approaching from behind.

He turned to face her, his expression serene yet tinged with the lingering energy of the dance. Demeter's eyes held a mixture of emotions—pride, joy, and something deeper that seemed to defy description.

"Muichiro," she spoke softly, her voice carrying the weight of her emotions. "That was... breathtaking."

Muichiro's nodded, whenever he performed the dance moon would have a similar expression.

Which he thought was odd as she was the goddess of the moon, but since she liked it, it didn't really matter. His eyes met Demeter's.

"Thank you," he replied simply, the word carrying layers of meaning that extended beyond the dance itself.

As the Demeter Familia members began to disperse, their murmurs of awe and admiration filling the air, Muichiro and Demeter remained in the centre of the space.

"That was amazing, so that's the new wonder kid everyone's raving about, no wonder Demeter-sama likes him so much."

"Yeah I've never seen a dance quite like it before, I want to see it again now." Another member commented.

"I've heard some rumours that he even had a sparring match with Adrian and won." Another member said.

"No way, from what I know he's only a level one, theirs no way in hell that, he beat Adrian, it's probably just a false rumour someone spread around." Another member commented not believing the rumour at all.

"Whether it's true or not, I don't know about you, but I feel like that kid Is going to make waves. Maybe he'll become a future executive of the familia...".

The sun's warm embrace enveloped them, casting them in a gentle light that seemed to symbolize a new chapter in their journey together.

....

As the dance concluded and the torches gradually burned down, Muichiro and Demeter stood in the fading light of the morning spectacle.

Demeter's eyes held a mix of wonder and appreciation as she turned to Muichiro, eager to learn more.

"Muichiro, that dance was truly mesmerizing," she said, her voice carrying a hint of awe. "The way you moved and the energy you channelled—it was as if the dance itself flowed through you."

Muichiro nodded in response, his gaze reflecting the serene confidence that had infused his dance. "It's a tradition passed down in the Kamado family," he explained. "The Hinokami Kagura dance is a way to offer respect to the Fire God and seek protection."

Demeter listened with genuine interest, captivated by Muichiro's explanation. She leaned in, hanging onto his words as he recounted the significance of each movement and the devotion behind the dance.

After Muichiro finished sharing the origins and meaning of the dance, Demeter's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm. "Muichiro, would you be interested in performing the Hinokami Kagura at a festival our familia will be hosting in about a month?"

Muichiro looked slightly taken by surprise by the proposal but quickly regained his composure.

The thought of performing the dance in front of a larger audience was a new prospect, but he remembered the feeling of connection he had experienced during the dawn dance. With a small nod, he agreed, "If it's something you'd like, then I'll be honoured to perform."

Demeter's face lit up with joy, her delight evident as she clapped her hands together. "Excellent! The festival will be a wonderful opportunity for our familia to come together and celebrate. Your dance will undoubtedly be a highlight."

With the conversation settling into a warm exchange, Muichiro excused himself to prepare for the day.

After a quick bath and a change into his regular clothes, he made his way back to Demeter's room. She had resumed her seat at the desk, reviewing documents once more.

As he entered, Demeter looked up and smiled at him. "Ready for the day, Muichiro?"

He nodded in affirmation. "Yes, today I'm planning to visit Babel Tower."

Demeter's expression brightened.

"Ah, exploring the tower? That's a great idea. Just be careful and make sure to come back safely..."

"Oh! now that I think about it since you're heading to Babel...here, if you could hand this letter to **********. They are located in the 8th floor, you won't miss it.

Muichiro gave her a reassuring nod before grabbing his katana and securing it to his side. He bid Demeter farewell, his steps light as he left the room and the manor behind.

The sun was fully risen now, casting its golden glow over the city of Orario.

Muichiro's mind was set on his new outing, the memories of the dance still fresh in his thoughts.

As he made his way to Babel Tower, he couldn't help but wonder what things he will see in the tower...

...but before that, he was going to go get himself a Jagamarukun...no two.