The next morning, Bell's mind was clear and focused, the weight of his recent growth settling comfortably on his shoulders. Strapping his new Nichirin sword to his hip alongside his trusty dagger, he felt the subtle thrill of anticipation. Each weapon symbolised how far he'd come, of the skills and burdens he now carried.
Bell left the church quietly, the cool Orario breeze brushing against his face as he approached the Guild. Today, he wasn't just another rookie adventurer desperate for approval. He was determined to show Eina how much he'd matured. Knowledge was power, and after everything he'd experienced, he would never again let himself or anyone he cared for be caught unprepared.
The Guild's hall was bustling as always, but Bell moved with quiet confidence, weaving his way to Eina's counter. She was busy with paperwork, her glasses slipping down her nose as she scanned the latest reports. Bell approached with a polite knock on the counter.
"Good morning, Eina!" he greeted with a small, genuine smile.
Eina looked up, surprised by his cheerful tone. "Bell! You're up early." Her eyes flicked to the new sword at his hip, then back to his face. "You look… different. Did something happen?"
Bell chuckled softly. "Let's just say I've learned a lot recently. I wanted to study more about the lower and middle floors, and everything you can teach me. I know now just how important knowledge is in the Dungeon. I don't want to make mistakes out of ignorance anymore."
Eina's surprise softened into a proud, approving smile. She nodded, gathering charts and floor guides. "I'm glad to hear that, Bell. Let's get started. I'll make sure you're ready for anything." Eina took Bell to a private room.
Bell soaked every word, asking sharper and more thoughtful questions than ever. He took careful notes, his mind working through strategies, details, and dangers.
After an hour of study, Bell stood and bowed gratefully. "Thank you, Eina. I won't waste what you've taught me." He left the Guild with a new sense of preparedness burning in his chest.
The city was waking up as Bell approached the Dungeon's looming entrance. Today, he would test his breathing techniques, including his fused forms, against the monsters below. With every beast he felled, he would gain more Valis for himself and his goddess, but more importantly, he would prove to himself that his resolve, knowledge, and skills had truly changed his fate.
With a deep, steadying breath, Bell stepped into the Dungeon, ready for whatever awaited him.
Bell entered the Dungeon with a calm, focused determination, the weight of his new skills settling comfortably on his shoulders. As he descended through the early floors, he called out each form as he unleashed them, Thunder Breathing, Insect Breathing, even his unique fused techniques. Lightning crackled with each step, his sword dancing through goblins and kobolds, while poison-laced precision made short work of more agile foes. It was exhilarating, almost like dancing through his legend.
He didn't just fight, he tested. Every movement, every breath was measured. "Thunderclap and Flash!" echoed through the tunnels, followed by the sharp, whispering steps of "Butterfly Dance: Caprice!" Bell's forms flowed together, and the monsters couldn't keep up.
By the time he reached the fifth floor, Bell's demeanour shifted. The air was thicker, the threats more real. He slowed down, moving with the caution of a true adventurer. Here, his fused breathing forms became a lifeline, swift strikes, evasive footwork, and deadly precision.
One unexpected benefit of his system's power was the new inventory space. His bag had started to fill with drop items, but now he could will them into the invisible grid of his system inventory. The convenience was unmatched, no more awkwardly shuffling loot or worrying about overloading his pack.
After a long, productive run, Bell returned to the surface, the familiar weight of magic stones and drop items tucked away safely in his system inventory. He exchanged his haul for a generous amount of Valis at the Guild, earning a respectful nod from the staff.
With his pockets heavier and his spirits high, Bell decided it was time to look for new clothes. The outfits he'd worn in the Demon Slayer simulation had become his second skin, comfortable, practical, and oddly reassuring. He made his way toward the shops specialising in Far East clothing, eager to find something to let him carry a piece of his journey into every new adventure.
Bell stepped into the Far Eastern clothing store, the scent of silk and incense greeting him as soft lantern light flickered across elegant fabrics. Several women behind the counter glanced his way, their eyes curious but friendly. One of them approached with a warm smile, her voice gentle but confident. "Welcome! Can I help you find something today?"
Bell hesitated momentarily, then explained the kind of clothing he was looking for: something traditional yet practical, reminiscent of the outfits he'd worn during the simulation. When he described the style, the women exchanged surprised but delighted glances. "That's quite specific," one said with a chuckle, "but we have just the things."
They led Bell through racks of robes and kimono-like garments, showing him fabrics that felt light but durable, perfect for both movement and style. Bell tried on a few pieces, nodding approvingly as he found the ideal balance between comfort and tradition.
Before leaving, Bell mentioned he wanted to buy Hestia a gift that would suit her unique personality. He blushed slightly as he described his goddess, explaining she was small but had a large chest area. This made the woman giggle softly, finding his shy honesty endearing.
With their help, Bell selected a charming yet straightforward outfit for Hestia: a delicate white and blue ensemble that echoed her divine elegance but was modest and cute. The ladies wrapped it carefully, their smiles warm and encouraging.
After paying, Bell thanked them sincerely and stepped back into the bustling streets of Orario, the weight of his new purchases light but full of meaning. With the sun dipping low, he returned to the church, eager to share the gifts and perhaps the stories of his journey with Hestia.
Bell returned to the church as twilight deepened, the soft glow of lanterns casting warm hues across the familiar walls. He approached Hestia, who was tidying up the small space, and carefully handed her the wrapped gift. Her eyes widened in surprise as she unwrapped the delicate fabric, revealing the charming white and blue outfit.
"Bell, this is… beautiful!" she exclaimed, her cheeks flushing with happiness. She held it up against herself, imagining how it would look. "I want to try it on right now," she said eagerly, but then paused, remembering, "Though… I haven't taken a bath yet today, have I? Maybe I should wait a bit. I could wear it for a special dinner date or something," she added with a playful smile.
Bell chuckled softly, feeling a warmth in his chest at her delight. "Whenever you want, Goddess," he replied.
With that, he excused himself and headed toward the bath. As the warm water enveloped him, Bell's mind drifted back to his dungeon run earlier that day. He thought over the flow of his breathing techniques, the perfect timing of his fused forms, and how each move felt sharper than before. He considered what adjustments he could make and what new strategies might push him further.
His thoughts shifted to the next simulation run, the unknown challenge awaiting him. Bell felt a flicker of excitement with his growing strength and hard-earned knowledge. He was ready to face whatever came next, to test his limits again, and to keep forging the path toward becoming the hero he aspired to be.
Later that night, after the quiet hum of the church had faded and Hestia was fast asleep, Bell set himself up on the old sofa with a pillow and blanket, his makeshift bed for the evening. He stared at the cracked ceiling, feeling exhaustion in his muscles but a restless curiosity buzzing in his mind. There was no point in hesitating. He took a slow breath and, mentally, gave the command: Start simulation.
Instantly, the familiar translucent screen shimmered into view, casting a faint glow across the dark room. One message after another appeared in rapid succession.
Ding! The talent is being renewed...
Please choose three talents from the following for this simulation:
Talents currently available:
Straight Isolater (white)
Reckless Man (white)
Swordsmanship Genius (blue)
Cooking Mastery (purple)
Bravery (blue)
Looking over the list, Bell's eyes widened in disbelief. Swordsmanship Genius? Cooking Mastery? Bravery? It almost felt like the system rewarded him for all his hard work. Maybe his luck was starting to turn.
Bell didn't waste any more time. System, choose Swordsmanship Genius, Cooking Mastery, and Bravery.
The screen flickered again, confirming his choices:
Ding! Talent selection is successful. Current talents:
Swordsmanship Genius (blue): Your talent has improved somewhat, and your understanding of swordsmanship will also improve tremendously. You will become more agile when using swordsmanship.
Cooking Mastery (purple): Master of cooking recipes, understands what the best food to use is and how to make it work with spices, can make people fall in love with the food.
Bravery (blue): A courageous spirit overrides mental interferences such as coercion and confusion. At the same time, you are immune to spiritual exploration and your base attributes are doubled during battle.
Bell felt a rush of anticipation. The simulation was beginning, this time, armed with talents that could finally turn the tide. He closed his eyes as the world around him shifted, ready to face whatever new challenges awaited, confident that he was better prepared than ever.
Simulation begins.
The world reassembled itself around Bell, and he found himself standing in a now-familiar, moonlit courtyard, where he'd witnessed the desperate battle between Hashira and a demon in the last two simulations. In the near distance, with his unsettlingly serene smile, Doma clashed violently with Kanae, her breathing ragged, her blade flashing with every ounce of resolve she could muster.
Bell didn't wait. This time, his heart hammered with certainty and purpose. He summoned his Nichirin sword in a flash of blue and gold and sprinted into the fray.
"Thunder Breathing, First Form: Thunderclap and Flash!" he shouted, lightning arcing around his body as he closed the distance. But as his feet struck the ground, muscle memory carried him into the rhythm of Sun Breathing, and he tried to blend the forms, channelling both techniques at once. The attempt was raw and imperfect, but the force of it startled Doma, who twisted aside, eyes gleaming with sudden interest.
Blood staining her uniform and her breathing shallow, Kanae managed a weary smile at the sight of unexpected help. Together, she and Bell moved with a fierce, desperate synergy, her flower-breathing forms weaving around Bell's bursts of thunder and sunlight. For the first time, Doma was pressed and forced to defend rather than toy with his prey.
Doma's smile faltered. His fans spun in a blur, ice blossoming across the stones, but Bell's bravery, his new talent, kept him sharp and fearless. No aura of dread, no tricks of the mind could reach him now.
He shouted, "Miss! On my mark!"
She understood instantly. With one final, coordinated assault, they struck together, driving Doma back. The Upper Moon's composure cracked. He leapt away, landing atop a ruined pillar, his expression twisted in irritation.
"I see… The sun's scent again, and now a child of thunder. This is getting interesting." He fixed Bell with a cold, lingering gaze. "Young lady, I'll finish this another night. Enjoy your borrowed time." With a swirl of icy petals, Doma vanished into the night.
Breathing hard, Bell hurried to Kanae's side as her knees buckled. He caught her, supporting her weight as they made their way towards the sound of approaching footsteps, other Demon Slayers, drawn by the noise. Among them, a petite girl with sharp eyes, Shinobu, rushed forward, immediately setting to work stemming Kanae's bleeding.
"Hold on, Sister!" Shinobu's voice trembled, but her hands never faltered.
Kanae, still conscious, looked up at Bell and managed a faint, grateful smile. "Thank you… You used Thunder Breathing, didn't you? And something else, perhaps?"
Bell nodded, a little sheepish. "I'm still learning. I just wanted to help."
Shinobu glanced up, her curiosity barely masked by concern. "Where did you learn those techniques? Would you come with us to headquarters? We'd like to know more. Thank you properly."
Bell hesitated only a moment before accepting. "Of course. I'd be honoured."
With Kanae stabilised and the other Slayers forming a protective circle, Bell followed as they made their way through the night, ready to face the next chapter of his borrowed legend.
Bell followed the Demon Slayer squad through the quiet, shadowed streets, the air thick with tension and relief. Kanae was taken home to recover, her wounds tended with utmost care by Shinobu and the medical team. Shinobu, eyes sharp but posture gentle, led Bell through the estate's winding corridors toward the primary residence.
Soon, they arrived at a spacious hall, where the Demon Slayer Corps' master, Kagaya Ubuyashiki, awaited. The soft light from paper lanterns cast his serene expression in smooth gold. Several Hashira stood nearby, Gyomei, Giyu, Sanemi, and others, each radiating their unique intensity.
Shinobu bowed respectfully. "Oyakata-sama, this is Bell. He aided Kanae tonight. I thought you would want to hear what happened."
Kagaya's knowing smile greeted Bell. "Welcome, young one. Please, tell us everything."
Bell described the night in careful detail, Doma's icy presence, the desperate clash, the blending of Thunder and another Breathing, and how he and Kanae had driven the demon back. As he spoke, the Hashira's eyes widened in shock and disbelief, especially at the mention of Doma.
Kagaya's voice was gentle, but his words carried weight. "You faced Upper Moon Two and survived. That is no small feat." He turned to the others. "You all understand what this means."
Murmurs and exchanged glances swept through the Hashira. Gyomei, the Stone Hashira, bowed his head respectfully, while Giyu eyed Bell with quiet curiosity.
Kagaya looked back at Bell, his tone sincere. "Would you be willing to join the Demon Slayer Corps? Your strength and spirit are assets we dearly need."
Bell hesitated, then bowed deeply. "I would be honoured, Master Kagaya. But… If I may, I'd like to earn everyone's trust first. Please allow me to assist the Kocho sisters for a while. I can help most by supporting them, and I wish to learn more before taking on a higher rank."
A ripple of respect passed through the room. Gyomei gave a solemn nod, his deep voice resonating. "A wise choice. Humility is a rare trait among the strong."
Shinobu's lips quirked in an approving smile. "I accept your offer, Bell. We'd be happy to have your help."
With the meeting concluded, Bell followed Shinobu back to the Butterfly Mansion. The halls buzzed with healers, apprentices, and the gentle clatter of daily life. Bell quickly made himself useful, helping carry supplies, tending gardens, and volunteering in the kitchen. He even confessed, a bit shyly, that cooking was his hobby, though he knew full well it was really to take advantage of his new talent.
Each meal he prepared was met with delight and astonishment; flavours and aromas transformed the usual fare into minor feasts, earning instant popularity among the staff and patients. As days passed, Bell found himself fitting seamlessly into the rhythm of the mansion, earning trust, forging friendships, and quietly honing the skills that would one day tip the balance in the war against the demons.
Months passed in a blur at the Butterfly Mansion. Bell's days settled into a steady rhythm of cooking, training, and lending a hand wherever he was needed. Word of his kitchen prowess spread so far that he was unofficially crowned "Master of the Kitchen." Even the usually reserved Kanao lingered near the dining hall, waiting for his next meal. Shinobu often teased that Bell's food had healing properties, while Kanae, once she recovered, would peek in to steal a taste and smile warmly. Even Kanao, who rarely showed emotion, would light up with a faint glimmer in her eyes, sometimes flipping her coin before quietly asking for seconds.
But Bell never let himself get complacent. Every morning, as the mist still curled in the garden, he trained relentlessly with his Nichirin blade, pouring his focus into mastering Sun Breathing. The forms were as beautiful as they were demanding, and Bell's efforts to weave Thunder Breathing into them made each session a challenge. He also studied the Transparent World, a rare state that allowed him to perceive the movement of muscles and blood in opponents. Achieving it, even for a moment, left him drained but exhilarated. He knew he was only scratching the surface, but every breakthrough fueled his determination.
One crisp morning, Bell wandered into one of the training courtyards and spotted Shinobu gracefully practising her Insect Breathing. He watched her "Dance of the Dragonfly" with admiration, but he couldn't help noticing a slight hitch in her footwork. After she finished, Bell approached, hesitating briefly before speaking up.
"Um, Shinobu-san… May I offer a suggestion?" he asked, voice gentle.
Shinobu arched a brow, more amused than offended. "Of course, Bell. I value your opinion."
He explained what he'd observed, demonstrating a subtle shift in balance that might lend more speed to her movement. Shinobu tried it, and her movements immediately became more fluid and precise. She looked at Bell, genuinely surprised, then grinned. "You are full of surprises."
Bell, encouraged, went further. "I was also wondering… Your forms are modelled after certain insects, right? What if you studied other insects, like wasps for their rapid, multi-directional strikes, or ants for their relentless teamwork and strength?"
Shinobu's eyes went wide with curiosity. "That's… brilliant. I never considered expanding beyond the four main forms. I'll experiment, maybe a wasp-inspired form for rapid, multi-stabbing attacks… and something for ants, too."
Over the following weeks, Shinobu developed a new Wasp Form, unleashing a flurry of multi-directional stabs that left practice dummies in tatters, and even the other Hashira was impressed. The Ant Form proved trickier, but she was determined to unlock its secrets.
As Bell watched everyone around him grow, he couldn't help feeling like he'd found a second family. He trained, cooked, and supported the Kocho sisters and their friends while quietly pursuing mastery of the skills that could one day change the fate of everyone he cared about.
A year rolled by in what felt like a blink. Bell's mastery of Sun Breathing had reached a plateau; no matter how hard he tried, something critical was missing, a piece of the puzzle just out of reach. Not one to waste time, he continued to hone his Thunder Breathing and, in secret, his variation of Insect Breathing, inspired by Shinobu's forms.
His legend only grew at the Butterfly Mansion. Every meal he cooked became an event; even the most stoic Demon Slayers, Kanao included, looked forward to dinner with visible excitement. Kanae's laughter rang out more often, Shinobu's teasing grew gentler, and even the youngest apprentices would sneak into the kitchen hoping to learn from "Master Bell."
One brisk morning, a crow summoned Bell to the Ubuyashiki estate. In the master's hall, Kagaya and all the Hashira gathered in a rare complete assembly. The room was thick with anticipation as Kagaya spoke, "Bell has proven himself repeatedly. With the Thunder Hashira retired, I propose he inherit the title."
The Hashira exchanged glances, some sceptical, others quietly approving. Gyomei nodded solemnly, while Sanemi crossed his arms, eyes hard but not dismissive. Obanai and Mitsuri whispered in the corner, weighing the idea.
Bell bowed. "I am honored, Oyakata-sama. Before anything is decided, I want to earn this title in the eyes of everyone here. I've not only mastered Thunder Breathing, but have also studied Shinobu's Insect Breathing. I can combine them, and I'd like to demonstrate. If, in the end, I am to be the Thunder Hashira, I'll wear the mantle with pride."
Kanae gasped softly, and Shinobu's eyes widened in surprise. Even the usually aloof Giyu gave Bell a rare nod of interest.
Kagaya smiled. "A demonstration, then. Sanemi, would you do the honours?"
Sanemi cracked his knuckles, stepping forward into the sunlight-dappled training ground. The other Hashira and Kagaya positioned themselves to observe, a hush falling over the estate.
Bell and Sanemi faced off, swords drawn. Sanemi's Wind Breathing formed a wild, howling gale, his movements sharp and unpredictable. Bell responded in kind, and Thunder Breathing's speed blended with the unpredictable angles of Insect Breathing. Sparks and wind clashed, each movement a blur of colour and intent. Bell's footwork was precise, and his sword sang with energy as he pressed Sanemi, weaving Thunderclap and Flash with flurries reminiscent of a wasp's multi-strike.
Sanemi grinned, enjoying the challenge, but Bell's focus didn't waver. The battle reached its peak when Bell feinted left, then, with a burst of speed, slipped behind Sanemi and tapped his shoulder with the flat of his blade.
Sanemi froze, eyes wide, before letting out a bark of laughter. "Didn't see that coming. Guess you're not all talk."
Kagaya rose, voice warm and proud. "It's decided. Bell, from this day forward, you are the Thunder Hashira."
Bell bowed deeply, gratitude and pride swelling in his chest. "Thank you. I'll do everything I can to honour this title."
The other Hashira offered their congratulations, some warm, some reserved, but all sincere. Gyomei clasped Bell's shoulder, and even Sanemi nodded in grudging respect.
That evening, Bell returned to the Butterfly Mansion with news that spread like wildfire. Shinobu smiled knowingly, and Kanae hugged him. Kanao looked at him with shining eyes, flipping her coin and, just this once, not bothering to check the result.
Bell knew this was only the beginning as the new Thunder Hashira, his journey and the challenges ahead were far from over.
Bell received word that his new residence was complete two months after his promotion. He remembered the letter from Kagaya asking where he'd like his base, and he'd requested to be near the Butterfly Mansion so he could continue supporting the Kocho sisters and their staff. But Bell hadn't stopped there. He'd sent back detailed sketches for a training course, inspired by the hero stories of his childhood. It wasn't just for Thunder Breathing; he wanted a place where all styles could be honed, a playground for experimentation, growth, and camaraderie.
The grounds were more than he'd imagined: winding obstacle paths for agility, platforms and rails for Thunder Breathing practitioners to practice lightning-fast footwork, shaded gardens for meditative forms, and even a series of targets for precision-based techniques like Insect or Flower Breathing. The centrepiece was Bell's pride, a homemade hot spring ringed by blooming cherry blossoms and wisteria trees, their petals drifting on the steam in a swirl of colour and fragrance. It was a haven for sore bodies and weary minds. His kitchen, too, was spacious and well-stocked, ready to welcome guests at any time.
It wasn't long before the Kocho sisters visited, drawn by curiosity and friendship. Kanae and Shinobu would stroll through the gardens, sometimes offering pointers or enjoying Bell's hospitality. Kanao, usually quiet and reserved, seemed to come alive around Bell, her eyes bright, her steps lighter, and her coin flipping less often as she grew more confident. She loved Bell's cooking and was eager to test herself on the new training course while practising Flower Breathing under Kanae's watchful guidance.
Bell was always nearby, ready with an encouraging word or a gentle correction. Kanae, watching them, felt a quiet pride, especially when Bell surprised her by suggesting, "Have you ever tried combining your Flower Breathing with Shinobu's poisons? Imagine a Cherry Blossom form, or even a Wisteria form, something that could turn even your most beautiful techniques into something truly deadly to demons."
Kanae's eyes widened with inspiration. "I… never thought of that," she admitted, excitement colouring her voice. Even Kanao seemed intrigued, her gaze fixed on Bell as if seeing him in a new light.
Over the following weeks, the residents of Butterfly Mansion and the new Thunder Hashira's home became like twin hearts, pulsing with life, creativity, and mutual respect. Bell's training course welcomed Slayers of every style, and the evenings were filled with laughter, stories, and the scent of fresh-cooked meals drifting on the breeze beneath the cherry blossoms and wisteria.
Bell couldn't help but smile every morning, grateful for this strange, beautiful family he'd built, and for the endless possibilities that still awaited them all.
Three years drifted by, each season layering memories over the last. In that time, Shinobu officially earned the title of Insect Hashira. On the day of her promotion, she received a custom haori, white with a butterfly-wing pattern, just like Kanae's. The moment she slipped it on, a rare tear slipped down her cheek, and Kanae hugged her, both sisters caught in the quiet joy and weight of what it meant.
Kanao, too, transformed. No longer hiding behind her coin, she blossomed with confidence. One morning, as the group shared breakfast, Kanao looked up at Bell, her voice precise and gentle. "Thank you for the meal, big brother." Shinobu nearly choked on her tea, while Kanae burst out laughing, echoing through the house. Kanao's cheeks reddened as she pouted, making the sisters laugh harder, her cuteness now a daily delight.
Word of Bell's hospitality and his legendary kitchen had spread far beyond the Butterfly Mansion. Mitsuri, the Love Hashira, and Rengoku showed up, eager to sample his food and curious about the training grounds he'd built. Bell just shrugged and welcomed them, letting them try the obstacle course. Mitsuri was an instant fan, her eyes sparkling as she devoured his cooking, while Rengoku was so impressed he declared every dish "delicious!" at the top of his lungs. Naturally, Shinobu and Kanae teased Bell relentlessly, calling him "the secret weapon of the Corps."
Between hosting visitors and running the training course, Bell still took missions, slaying demons, saving villages, and inspiring awe wherever he went. Children in remote towns began to whisper stories about the Thunder Hashira with the gentle smile and lightning-fast blade.
In his downtime, Bell pushed his mastery of Transparent World. He could now access it more easily, reading the flow of muscles and breath in demon and human opponents. But the technique drained him, and he was still searching for a way to extend its duration without burning out. Progress was slow, but he could feel himself getting closer with each passing battle.
At the mansion, Kanae and Shinobu occasionally called Bell to the courtyard to show off new forms. Kanae, in particular, had begun experimenting with Bell's earlier suggestions; her Flower Breathing now included a Cherry Blossom form and a Wisteria form, both beautiful and deadly. She even started adding Shinobu's poisons, turning her gentle style into something that could stop demons in their tracks.
One afternoon, Kanae grinned at Bell as she demonstrated her newest form. "You know, Bell, since you've already mastered Insect Breathing, maybe I should teach you Flower Breathing next. What do you say?"
Bell's cheeks flushed, much to the amusement of everyone watching. He rubbed the back of his neck, but didn't say no.
The years had woven a tapestry of trust and belonging, a family built not by blood but by shared struggle and joy. As petals drifted from the cherry trees and laughter echoed from the hot springs, Bell knew there was no place he'd rather be and no challenge he wouldn't face for the people who had become his heart.
One quiet morning, as sunlight filtered through the wisteria outside his window, Bell found his thoughts drifting back to the Kamado family from past simulations. He remembered the tales from the villages of a family that performed a mysterious and ancient ritual dance, a dance so long and precise it was said to honour the fire god. The villagers called it the Kagura Dance. The name and its relevant description echoed in Bell's mind, reminding him of the origins of the breathing techniques, especially Sun Breathing.
Unable to shake the feeling that fate was nudging him, Bell sought Kagaya's wisdom. After breakfast, he went to the Ubuyashiki estate, where the master greeted him with gentle curiosity.
Bell bowed. "I've heard something in the villages on my last mission, Oyakata-sama. Stories of a man who performed a ritual dance, dedicated to the fire god, called the Kagura Dance. From everything I've studied, it sounds similar to the origins of Sun Breathing. I think it might be worth meeting this family… and perhaps recruiting them if they're willing. They might hold lost knowledge, or even a spark that could help us turn the tide."
Kagaya listened thoughtfully, his pale eyes deep with understanding. "The Kamado family… Yes, I recall the name from old records. It could be invaluable if the Kagura Dance is connected to Sun Breathing. Bring someone you trust and go to them. Listen, and if they wish, invite them into our fold. But do not force them, let them choose."
Bell nodded. "Thank you, Oyakata-sama. I'll be careful."
Back at the Butterfly Mansion, Bell found Shinobu tending to the herb garden. He explained the mission, and she agreed to accompany him, her curiosity piqued by the idea of a dance that might predate their oldest forms.
The journey to the village was uneventful, but as they asked about the Kamado family, the villagers pointed them toward the mountain, describing a modest cabin nestled in the trees. Bell felt a wave of déjà vu. He knew this place from the stories, the simulation, and a promise he'd made to himself: he would protect them this time.
As they approached the cabin, Kie Kamado greeted them at the door, her eyes wary but kind. Bell and Shinobu introduced themselves and explained their purpose, the stories of the Kagura Dance, their interest in its origins, and the growing danger demons posed to isolated families.
Kie listened, hands clasped nervously. "My husband taught the dance to our eldest, Tanjiro, before he passed away. It is our family's treasure… but we are simple folk. I worry for my children."
Bell knelt to meet her gaze, his tone gentle but earnest. "The world is changing, and demons are growing bolder. The Kagura Dance may hold answers for all of us. We can offer you protection at Demon Slayer headquarters if you'd like. Your family can be safe there, and Tanjiro can learn more about the meaning behind the Kagura. It is connected to Sun Breathing, the original style that birthed all others."
Kie hesitated, torn between her home and her children's safety. Shinobu spoke softly, "We will not pressure you, but if you come with us, your family will have a new home, and your traditions will be respected."
After a long, silent moment, Kie nodded. "We will come. For my children."
With gratitude, Bell and Shinobu helped the Kamado family gather their belongings. As they led the way down the mountain, Bell felt a quiet resolve settle in his heart. This time, he would make things right. He would protect the Kamados, and perhaps, together, they would rediscover the light that had once kept the darkness at bay.
Upon arriving at the Butterfly Mansion, Bell and Shinobu gently welcomed the Kamado family. The staff ushered them in for health checks, ensuring the children were comfortable and Kie had a moment to breathe. The peaceful gardens and soft scents of blooming flowers seemed to ease their nerves.
Kie quietly expressed her gratitude, bowing to Bell and Shinobu. "Thank you for bringing us somewhere safe. I don't know how we can ever repay you."
Bell smiled. "You don't need to. We're just glad you're here."
Ever curious, Tanjiro looked around with wide eyes, while Nezuko hovered protectively near her siblings. The youngest children were soon distracted by the butterflies flitting through the garden.
Later, in the privacy of a quiet room, Bell sat with Kie and Tanjiro. He explained what he'd learned about the Kagura Dance and its possible connection to Sun Breathing, speaking gently not to overwhelm them. "Tanjiro, your family's dance may be the key to understanding the origins of all Breathing Styles. I want to help you explore it more deeply if you're willing. Since the dance is related to the sun and fire, I know just the right teachers for you. Rengoku can help you master the flame aspect, Giyu can teach you the fluidity of water, and I'll help you with speed and thunder."
Tanjiro's eyes sparkled with hope and determination. "I want to learn. But… what about my family?"
Bell reassured him, "They'll be safe here. Your mother and siblings can help at the mansion. Kie mentioned she has some medical training. She would be a great help to Shinobu and the staff. Everyone can contribute in their way."
Just then, Nezuko burst in, determination written all over her face. "I want to learn too!" she declared.
Kie sighed in exasperation, but Bell only laughed, warmth in his eyes. "If your mother allows it, you're welcome, Nezuko."
Kie tried to sound stern but couldn't hide her fondness. "Only if you promise to help your siblings and listen to your teachers."
Bell promised to speak with Kagaya about arranging proper training for Tanjiro and Nezuko and for the whole family's well-being. After a round of nods and smiles, Kie gently scolded Nezuko for barging in, and the siblings scattered with laughter and relief.
Bell then made his way to Kagaya's estate, where he explained everything: the Kamados' safe arrival, their willingness to help, and his proposal for Tanjiro's and Nezuko's training path, first with Rengoku to master the flame aspect, then with Giyu for water's fluidity, and finally with Bell himself for thunder's speed and adaptability.
Kagaya listened, visibly interested, and quickly approved Bell's plan. "Make the arrangements," he said, voice soft but resolute. "This may be the beginning of something essential."
With the master's blessing, Bell felt a sense of rightness settle in his chest. The Kamados were safe, and the future of Sun Breathing, and perhaps the fight against the demons, felt a little brighter.
When Bell returned to the Butterfly Mansion, Kie sat quietly in the garden, worry etched deep in her face. He sat beside her and gently shared Kagaya's approval of the training plan, promising to send it to Rengoku as soon as possible. As he spoke, Bell noticed how tense and weary Kie seemed, the burden of holding her family together since Tanjuro's passing had taken its toll.
With a kind smile, Bell stood and offered his hand. "Why don't you follow me for a bit, Kie? Let's find you somewhere to relax and let your hair down. You're not alone anymore, you've done more than enough."
Surprised but touched, Kie allowed Bell to guide her to his residence nearby. He led her through a winding path lined with cherry blossoms and wisteria until they reached the secluded hot spring, steam rising between the petals. Kie gasped softly at the sight.
Bell grinned. "Take your time. I'll make you something special to eat after you're done. Kanae and Shinobu will look after the kids, and you deserve a break."
For the first time in ages, Kie let herself fully relax, the warmth of the hot spring melting away her tension. As she soaked beneath the drifting blossoms, a delicious aroma began to waft through the air, making her stomach rumble. She couldn't help but chuckle at herself, but the comfort of it all brought a tear of relief to her eye.
After drying off, Kie followed the scent to Bell's kitchen, where he greeted her with a table set for one and a meal that looked almost too beautiful to eat. She took her first bite and froze, eyes wide in shock at how good it was, then melted into the flavours. Bell chuckled, pleased to see her enjoying herself at last.
They talked about everything and nothing, including family, favourite foods, and little memories from the mountains, until exhaustion finally caught up with Kie, and she nodded off at the table. Smiling, Bell gently lifted her and carried her to a spare room, ensuring she was comfortable.
Before turning in for the night, Bell sent his crow to the Butterfly Mansion with a message: "Kie Kamado fell asleep at my place. Please don't worry, tell the children she is safe and well. – Bell."
Bell felt a sense of peace settle over him as the house grew quiet. For tonight, at least, the Kamados could rest easy, and so could he.