Chapter 24: Abandoned by God

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In a tranquil Japanese-style room adorned with shoji screens and tatami mats, Kagaya Ubuyashiki, the 97th leader of the Demon Slayer Corps, sat on a traditional pillow while serenely sipping tea. He had a regal presence, despite the curse mark that marred his skin and obscured his eyes, slowly but inexorably claiming his vision. His once-youthful face had become marked by the curse, giving him an ethereal and almost otherworldly appearance.

Amane Ubuyashiki, Kagaya's wife with striking white hair that seemed to radiate wisdom, entered the room with a somber expression. Her presence exuded an air of elegance and strength, a perfect counterpart to her husband.

Amane was a fair woman with pale skin and large, lavender eyes. Her short eyebrows framed those captivating eyes, giving her a look of gentle authority. Her white hair, elegantly swept to the right, was tied in a short ponytail, with two strands of hair let loose at the front, adding to her grace.

For this solemn occasion, Amane wore a salmon-colored kimono with a delicate ombre shading towards orange at the top, adorned with intricate flower patterns. Over the kimono, she wore a dark indigo haori embellished with numerous blue butterfly patterns, symbolizing the fragility and strength of life. Her ensemble was completed with a brown obi, featuring stripes of a paler shade, and an orange obiage securing it in place.

"Kagaya sama, we've received troubling news," Amane said as she knelt beside him.

Kagaya's usually gentle gaze sharpened. "Tell me, Amane."

"Our new recruits, the young Demon Slayers, are facing powerful demons, and many of them have lost their lives," she explained. "The demons seem to be growing stronger, and our newcomers are paying a heavy price."

Kagaya's cursed eyes, now shrouded in darkness, showed a deep sorrow that transcended mere words. He sighed, his tone weighted with regret. "I've watched some of them grow. I feel their pain with each loss. The demons are indeed becoming a dire threat."

"The situation will not be resolved until we defeat Muzan Muzan Kibutsuji" His tone filled with hate after speaking that man's name.

Amane placed a reassuring hand on Kagaya's, her touch a silent gesture of support. "You've done all you can, don't be sad. I am sure God will help us"

"Many have died by his hands, More and more demons are appearing and most of our close allies vanished" Kagaya spoke looking at a tree from the window "The young ones fighting now will also grow old and retire one day.." he continued "Demons can't grow old, can regenerate as we humans can die because of a decease....They are still the same as ever while most of us are vanished..""I ask God every night 'Why has the world come to this?' 'Is this really what you wanted to happen?' but he has not answered my prayers even once... "

"Has God also vanished?" 

"What do you think Amane? Has he abandoned us?" Kagaya asked Amane still looking at the falling leaves on the tree.

[A/N: He is blind but is looking toward the window and he is able to sense most of his surroundings.]

"Kagaya sama, the God has not abbondend us. I am sure he will send someone who can kill Muzan Kibutsuji and end this cycle of suffering." Lady Amane answered.

As Amane and Kagaya conversed, a small girl approached with a message in hand, her eyes reflecting the solemnity of her task. She approached Amane, who extended her hand to receive the report from Giyu Tomioka.

The message contained information about a peculiar encounter that Giyu had while fulfilling his duty as a Demon Slayer. Giyu detailed his meeting with a pair of siblings, a brother and a sister. The twist in the tale was that the sister was a demon, yet she seemed resolute in her attempts to protect her brother. It was a situation that defied the norms of their world and begged for a deeper understanding.

Amane read further. Giyu's report held more intriguing details. He described encountering a mysterious man who possessed a unique power. This enigmatic figure had the ability to halt Giyu's attack mid-air, displaying a formidable strength and a palpable aura. Most notably, this man was accompanying the siblings and, while concealing his identity, assured Giyu that he stood on their side.

Upon hearing this, Kagaya felt a glimmer of hope in his heart. He realized that amidst the chaos and challenges faced by the Demon Slayer Corps, there were still allies to be found. The presence of this enigmatic protector for the siblings hinted at a force that might aid their cause.

Kagaya's countenance shifted from one of solemnity to a renewed determination. He expressed, "It seems that even in the darkest of times, there are beacons of light. God has not abandoned us after all."

Amane, his wife, smiled softly, encouraged by Kagaya's newfound sense of optimism. In the midst of adversity, the bond between them and the resilience of the Demon Slayer Corps persisted, fueling their resolve to protect humanity from the demons that threatened their existence.

*******

As the sun painted the morning sky with warm hues, and the harmonious songs of birds filled the air, the scene transitioned to a humble home nestled amidst the heart of a serene mountain. It was the abode of the enigmatic old man who had crossed paths with Gojo and the Kamado siblings just the night before.

Inside the quaint, traditional home, Gojo and the masked old man sat together, sipping freshly brewed tea. The man, still masked and shrouded in mystery, couldn't help but be intrigued by Gojo's extraordinary abilities.

With a thoughtful expression, the old man leaned in and inquired, "Young man, that power you displayed last night, it was astonishing. How did you possess such abilities without bearing the title of Hashira? I'm curious to know."

Gojo, who was already used to such questions, leaned back and regarded the old man with a playful glint in his eyes. "Ah, that unique talent of mine, it's a trade secret," he responded with a hint of mischievousness. "But let's just say that I have a few tricks up my sleeve that Hashira or not, not many can grasp."

The masked man nodded thoughtfully, respecting Gojo's decision to keep certain details hidden. Despite the questions that remained unanswered, it was evident that the man and Gojo had established a mutual understanding.

Tanjiro, who had just finished his morning chores and was diligently folding his bedding, listened attentively to Gojo's advice. Gojo, with a gentle and encouraging tone, suggested, "Tanjiro, you will train under this old grandpa here! He's got experience and knowledge that could help you become a great Demon Slayer."

Sakonji Urokodaki, who had been quietly sipping his tea, nodded in agreement. He recognized Tanjiro's determination and saw potential in the young boy. "Indeed," he chimed in. "I've trained many fine Demon Slayers in my time. With dedication and hard work, there's no doubt you can become even more formidable."

"But Gogo Senpai, why can't you train me? I have seen you fight and I know you are strong" Tanjiro questioned.

This left Gojo somewhat bewildered, as he considered the weight of such a request.

Gojo leaned in closer to Tanjiro and offered a warm, genuine smile. "I appreciate your enthusiasm," he said. "But first, young one, you need to become a Demon Slayer, earn your ranks, and prove your skills. Once you've done that, I'll be here to teach you all that you need to know."

This promise filled Tanjiro with newfound motivation and determination.

Tanjiro, knowing the importance of honing his skills and understanding that the path ahead would be fraught with challenges, expressed his gratitude. "Thank you for your guidance," he replied earnestly. "I'll do my best to train and become stronger."

With Gojo's assurance and the prospect of training under the experienced Sakonji Urokodaki, Tanjiro felt a renewed sense of purpose and determination in his quest to save his sister, Nezuko, and find a way to return her to her human form.

"Well Gramps, take care of them ok? I need to go somewhere" Gojo said as he started trying his shoes.

"And where are you going?"

"To the Entertainment district! I have some important work there... Very important" Gojo answers the old Gramps question...

/To be continued…