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Chapter Text

When Tsugikuni  Yoriichi was born with his twin brother, they were considered a bad omen. While his older brother was the loved child who got all he could ever ask for, Yoriichi was the exact opposite.

Tsugikuni Michikatsu had the best meals, he had big room and all the toys you could think of. He had his personal teachers and many books and friends to keep him company.

Tsugikuni Yoriichi was nothing like his elder brother. He was the hated child. He couldn't go out of their house. His food was the same as servant's. His room was even smaller that servant's, with only one old futon.

But Yoriichi never complained.

He was glad he was allowed to live.

He was glad their father let him stay in their house.

He was glad his father listened to their mother's pleas and didn't kill him right after his birth.

While he never got to know his brother well (because their father forbid them to talk to each other), Yoriichi knew his brother was a very kind man. If he wasn't, why would he give him the flute? Flute he made with his own two hands. That day, for the first time in his life, Yoriichi smiled and talked to his brother. It seemed to surprise his brother. But Yoriichi didn't understand why? Apparently, they thought he was deaf. He wasn't. He just didn't see it as a necessity to talk to anyone. He just wanted to be with his brother and their mother and see them both happy and smiling. But he knew that drem couldn't become true. His mother had little over a month left to live, after all...

Yoriichi saw his brother practicing sword with his teacher.

"Brother your dream is to become the strongest samurai in the land, right? I want to be like you as well. I will be the second strongest samurai in the land."

There was a pause. This was the second time Michikatsu had heard his brother talk. And than... Another miracle happened. For the second time he saw his weak younger brother smile. A honest smile which shone brighter than the sun itself.

"I want to be the second strongest, so that I can be with brother forever and I can keep supporting you for the rest of my life."

The teacher decided to amuse Yoriichi for a bit and gave him a practicing sword. He showed him how to hold it properly, but that was all. He told him to attack. No one expected Yoriichi to land even one hit. But in seconds too fast for them to see, the instructor was lying down on his back, three dark bruises already forming on the spots Yoriichi just hit, with Yoriichi's practicing sword at his neck. In that moment, Michikatsu couldn't help but feel extremely jealous, for his younger brother, who is only a weak beta, somehow took to the sword like fish to water, while he, a strong alpha spent three years of training.

Three years of training, and Michikatsu is still not good enough to get even one hit at his teacher... While his younger brother, who is always clinging to their mother's side and running to her the moment he sees her, was able to hit three times in less than one second...

Just how is this possible?

And now Yoriichi said the stupidest thing Michikatsu had ever heard.

"I'm sorry brother. It seems like I won't be able to be the second strongest and support you."

"What? What are you talking about. That was... That was amazing... Why wouldn't you be able to be the second strongest?"

"I hate how it feels to hit people."

Somehow, this information spread like wildfire. And suddenly Yoriichi's and Michikatsu's positions were exchanged.

The one who was now supposed to lead their family was no longer alpha Michikatsu.

No.

Now it was supposed to be beta Yoriichi.

The genius beta son of the Tsugikuni family head.

But something unexpected happened.

On the night before official announcement about Yoriichi's inheritance, he appeared at the tiny door to his old room - now Michikatsu's - and said:

"Brother. Mother passed away. I will also leave early in the morning. I will head to the temple, where I was supposed to always be. The position of the head of this family belongs to you. I don't want to take it away from you."

The next day, Yoriichi was nowhere to be found and their mother's body had been taken away. Father send a search party to the temple to take Yoriichi back. But according to the people at the temple, Yoriichi never came to them in the first place.

That night, Michikatsu found his mother's old diary. Apparently, Yoriichi figured out about mother's illness. He wasn't clinging to her... He was supporting her left side as she walked, because she grew weaker and weaker everyday. He also predicted, that his father will want to make him the head of the family, that's why he decided to leave before that could happen. Where he headed to, even their mother didn't know...

After that, 10 years had passed and Michikatsu already had his own family.

He thought he would never seen his brother again.

No one would have imagined it will be exactly this same, missing brother that would save him from his death by the hands of a demon.

In the light illuminated by the moon, Yoriichi looked like the Sun God their mother was always praying to. That night, Michikatsu knew... That his brother became even stronger than before.

And somewhere deep down he also knew he would never be able to surpass him.

But his pride did not and never will let him accept that.

The jealousy he felt when he found out the truth from his mother's diary was back.

That's why he abandoned his new family.

That's why he abandoned his wife and two sons.

That's why, he became demon Slayer together with his brother.

So that he could surpass him.

And just when he thought he was finally going to be just as strong as Yoriichi, the marked ones started dying one after another... Before they reached the age of twenty-five.

And Michikatsu was ready to just give up on his dream of surpassing his brother.

And than he met Kibutsuji Muzan.

And his new life as a demon began.

With demon power, he was sure he could surpass Yoriichi.

He was sure.

But in the end, he did not.

On that night, four hundred years ago, there was a blood moon out. And Kokushibo saw something unbelievable. His 'younger brother', now looking decrepit and old was right there, standing in front of him.

The last time they saw each other was sixty years ago. So Yoriichi who stayed a human should have been over the age of eighty. Kokushibo couldn't believe his eyes.

"Impossible... How are you alive?... Everyone should be dead. Dead before the age of twenty-five. How are you... How are you the only one alive?"

"This is heart-wrenching, my brother."

The aged and hideous being that Kokushibo once called his brother was pitying him.

And yet... Kokushibo felt no anger. Even though Yoriichi had been an utter eyesore to him sixty years ago.

The voice that called him brother was extremely hoarse. His younger brother who had never showed the tiniest shred of emotions, was crying salty tears, and for the first time in his life, Kokushibo felt something swelling inside him.

Kokushibo was confused and bewildered beyond belief. 

He had to kill that remnant of flesh from his human days...

That physically brittle and old man who was far beyond his prime.

As long as he was a Demon Slayer, Kokushibo had no choice but to kill him if he pointed his sword at him.

But these strange feelings were blown away in the next moment.

Kokushibo felt it... The weight of the air increased from the pressure, and it was hard to move. As if there was a boulder on each of Kokushibo's shoulders.

Yoriichi's stance was impeccable.

"Here I come."

Kokushibo wanted to draw his sword, he found his hand flying in the air. He didn't even notice when Yoriichi moved. And he barely avoided having his head sliced off.

"My deepest sympathies, my brother."

Hatred and jealousy, irritation and defeat twisted through every organ in Kokushibo's body.

'Why did Yoriichi always have to be the special one?!'

But the next attack never came.

These were the last words Yoriichi said in his life, as tears fell from his eyes. Yoriichi died in front of him not by his hand, but a natural death from old age, as he stood on his feet.

Michikatsu knew, had Yoriichi taken one more breath, he would have died that night.

Yoriichi was special.

Yoriichi was able to live even with the mark.

Yoriichi almost killed the man Michikatsu - now Kokushibo - called master. The one man a whole organizations is trying so desperately to kill, but no no avail.

Yoriichi died on his two feet, with sword in his hands, looking once again, like the Sun God himself.

And the only thing left after him was that stupid flute.

Flute, which Michikatsu - now Kokushibo - for some reason couldn't leave behind, and always kept it close to his heart.

The flute was always with him.

It reminded him of his younger brother Yoriichi.

It was his last memento on his life as a human.

He could never atone for his sins.

For he did not regret becoming demon.

It gave him the power he always wanted.

He regretted he couldn't be the one to kill Yoriichi. Because now he can never surpass him.

And than... A boy named Kamado Tanjiro shoved up in from of him.

Chapter Text

Tsugikuni Yoriichi never complained. That was something Kamado Sumiyoshi learned very quickly. He also did everything in his power to help others, ignoring his own well-being.

Sumiyoshi met this strange man when he was on his way back home. The ground was covered in heavy snow. It was already dark and the only source of light was the brightly shining moon. As Sumiyoshi made his way up the mountain, suddenly a person appeared in front of him. The person appeared to be shaking and their feet looked like they couldn't hold their own weight.

Just as Sumiyoshi wanted to help the person keep their balance, something unexpected happened. The person - man - threw him on the nearby tree.

"I am so glad you are here, human" he said. "That fucking monster Demon Slayer almost killed me and I am barely conscious now. I used up all my energy on healing the burning wounds he left on me. It really must be my lucky day to find a meal on this isolated mountain."

The man - demon - run up to a dazed Sumiyoshi who hit his head on the tree. Just as he was mere inches from Sumiyoshi's throat, a bright red katana sliced his neck in clear motion, severing his head. Sumiyoshi stared blankly on the man before him, who saved his life.

This man wore a red haori over an orange kimono with black hakama and a katana sheath carried at the waist, bright red katana in his hands.

He had a hanafuda-like earrings which showed rising sun, swaying in the wind together with his slightly wavy, burgundy coloured with slightly red tips hair.

While it was clear he was very strong, he appeared slender instead of muscular.

And that was all Sumiyoshi saw before his vision turned black and he passed out.

When Sumiyoshi opened his eyes again, he was greeted by his wife and the man who saved his life. Sumiyoshi was ready to get up and kneel in front of him, but was stopped by his hand, saying he should rest some more. His hands were very warm and gentle, like the rays of morning sun.

"I am very sorry." The man said with a never changing face.

"Ah, Yoriichi-san. I told you already there is nothing to apologize about." His wife said. So his saviour is called Yoriichi.

"My wife is right. There is nothing to apologize for."

"If only I had got there quicker, you wouldn't have been attacked by the demon which run away from me. I really am deeply sorry."

"Like I said... There is nothing to apologize for. Thank you for saving my life, Yoriichi-san."

While Yoriichi didn't look convinced it wasn't his fault, he didn't protest anymore. And than...

And than he proceeded to pass out...

What?

It turns out Yoriichi had broken two of his ribs. It was a good thing Sumiyoshi was able to get the doctor from the village at the bottom of the mountain in time.

Dear gods... Yoriichi-san must have brought him to his house even though he himself was injured. Not only that, he also had a fever. What normal person goes around killing demons with two broken ribs and temperature of 39 degrees Celsius?

This man will be the death of Kamado Sumiyoshi. He is sure of that. He almost got a heart attack when Yoriichi-san passed out. Not only him, but his pregnant wife as well.

Yoriichi stayed with them for one week till he was completely healed. He told them about demons, about demon slayers and about himself, his family and his elder twin brother who just recently went missing.

While Yoriichi's face didn't show any emotions, his eyes spoke clear. When mentioning his elder brother, his eyes were even more soft (if that was even possible) and glassed over with unshed tears. It was obvious this kind beta loved his elder brother more than anything in his life. And the loss of his brother by his side left a huge, deep hole in his heart.

Apparently, Yoriichi isn't very good at communicating with humans. He is composed. He rarely talks. And his face almost never shows any emotions.

That's why people avoided him and called him strange. Everyone expect Kamado family and his friend named Uta and her new husband. Sumiyoshi was very surprised when he learned that these four people (soon five thanks to his pregnant wife whom Sumiyoshi loves with all his being) were Yoriichi's only friends. Yoriichi also never felt love different than that to his family. Sumiyoshi didn't know whenever to laugh or cry at this.

Sure, Yoriichi had other people who weren't afraid of talking to him even if he most of the time didn't respond verbally. They were his companions from Demon Slaying Corps. He thought them breathing styles. He made new breathing styles and new forms from his own Sun Breathing, so other people could perform  it. But he didn't consider them his friends. They were just colleagues.

At first, Sumiyoshi and his wife Suyako didn't understand what these breathing styles and forms were. But than Yoriichi showed them. It was just before Yoriichi left to slay more demons. Sumiyoshi and Suyako were so list in their own thoughts, they didn't even notice the sun disappearing behind the horizon. That night, as they were laying together in their bed, they agreed that Yoriichi isn't just a normal human being - normal man - as he himself claimed to be.

When he performed his breathing styles, it looked like he was dancing. The dance on the other hand looked more like and offering to the Gon instead of a deadly techniques.

And the fire spreading from his sword wasn't orange like it usually is.

This fire was more red. It was hotter.

It looked like fire from the sun itself.

As if the Sun God blessed Yoriichi's sword with his flames from sun.

The flames which bring warmth and life to this planet.

And the one commanding these flames was Yoriichi.

Their Sun God.

The next time Yoriichi came, their little daughter Sumire was already 2 years old and they had another child.

They were really happy that Yoriichi came back to them.

He was already like a family member for them.

But when he came, something was different.

It looked like one push could break their Sun God.

Like he wanted to cry and scream, but couldn't bring himself to do that.

And than... He told Sumiyoshi everything.

He told him about his encounter with Kibutsuji Muzan.

He told him about what happend to Uta, her husband and their unborn child.

He told him about his missing elder brother, who became demon. Not only some demon, but an Upper Moon One.

He told him about what the Demon Slaying Corps did. How they blamed everything on him. They didn't even let him explain himself. And they actually had the balls to tell him to split his stomach and atone for his own sins (which he had none) and the sins of his demonised elder brother.

And for the first time in his life, Sumiyoshi felt like killing someone wasn't such abad idea.

Such an ungrateful shits. When Yoriichi taught them and struggled to make for them their own breathing styles they were shoving praises on him. And now, they turned their backs to him for something he had no control over. The idea of killing someone was even more appealing now...

"Please teach me the Sun Breathing Style." Sumiyoshi said as his wife slept in the next room. "I owe you my life. If you weren't around back than, than I, much less my wife and children wouldn't be here now. Please teach me everything for the future generations."

"No need."

"But... It must be hard since you have no successor at hand. It may be impossible for me since I am a humble coal burner, but one day, someone surely will..."

"No need, Sumiyoshi. Masters of their crafts will always find their way to the same place. Even if times have changed. Even if they have taken different paths to that point. They will always go to the same place. You seem to see me as some kind of special human, but that's not true. I couldn't protect a single thing that was precious to me. I couldn't achieve what I was supposed to achieve in my life."

And than, Yoriichi said something, that broke Sumiyoshi's heart to million pieces.

"I am a man with no worth."

And with that, Yoriichi walked away. And Sumiyoshi thought (knew) that he would never saw him again.

When Sumiyoshi's eyes cleared of their tears, he found a pair of Hanafuda-like earrings on his tatami floor, on the spot where Yoriichi sat a minute ago.

"I promise you, I will keep them safe, Yoriichi-san. I will make sure these earrings together with your breathing style get passed down to the next generations. I pray that you will eventually find your own happiness, my Sun God."

And Sumiyoshi knew that this was the thing he was supposed to do since the day he was born. Even if Yoriichi said different, Sumiyoshi will make sure no one forgets this man who sacrificed his everything just so he could save humans lives by killing demons. Just like Yoriichi told him, when they first met...

"Everything is beautiful in this world. And I am really gratefull I was born into this world. My dream was to live a peacefull life. I wanted to find someone whom I would love unconditionally like you and Suyako. Have children. I wanted to live in a small house where I could see my loved ones everyday... hold their hands... hug them... But no matter what I do, my dream will never come happen.  Demons... They do exist and live in this beautiful world. And as long as they are here, we Demon Slayers can't enjoy this beautiful world and everything it has to offer."

And just like he thought... Sumiyoshi never saw Yoriichi ever again.

But he made sure Yoriichi's earrings are well cared for and passed down to the next generations, together with his Sun Breathing in the form of Hinokami Kagura. For as long as it will be necessary.

Chapter Text

The first time Kibutsuji Muzan saw Tsugikuni Yoriichi, he thought he was week. Painfully so. He almost pitied him. Almost.

There was nothing noticeable about him.

Yoriichi was of slender figure. Sure he had muscles. But he had thin waist. He looked more like an omega instead of beta.

There was nothing to his presence as well. He was like a plant. No smell, no thoughts, no rapid heartbeat, no will...

Just nothing.

Muzan thought something might appear once he will draw his sword. But nothing happened. His sword was obsidian black. While Muzan never saw a sword like that (and he saw many of them, mostly pointed at him...), he didn't think much of it.

What caught his attention first was, that this weak - looking beta human was able to avoid his long range attack. The bamboo behind Yoriichi ( a considerable distance mind you!) splitted and fell to the ground. What was even more surprising was that this Yoriichi was able to keep up with his inhuman speed.

No one was able to do that until now. But both of them knew Muzan needed only one scratch to kill Yoriichi. So Yoriichi made his best to avoid all of his attacks. 

But the only thing that truly shocked Muzan was, when his obsidian black katana turned burning red, erupted in flames and sliced his neck.

And something he still can't comprehend to this moment is, why his wounds refused to heal.

Why the scars that his bloody sword left on his body burned his skin to this day, like he was standing directly under the sun.

"What is the value of a life to you?"

Muzan heard him ask... Why?! He forgot such a thing long ago!

Muzan was pissed.

He was furious.

He should have been invincible!

But here stood man in front of him, who just nearly killed him and asked him such stupid questions...

The only thing he could do was to split his body and run.

Even so, that man - monster manager to destroy more than 1500 scattered pieces of his flesh.

It took Muzan 10 year to completely regenerate his body. But no matter how hard or how long he tried, the scars won't just disappear. And with them, the pain lingered as well...

"The real monster in this world is you, Tsugikuni Yoriichi. Not me."

But in that one moment, when Yoriichi wasn't cautious enough, Muzan smelled something interesting...

So he asked Kokushibo about it.

"What was the second gender of your brother?"

Because of the mark, Yoriichi should be dead by now... Hopefully.

"He was a beta."

"Hmmm..."

"Why do you ask, my lord?"

"Nothing you should concern yourself with."

And their conversation ended there. But Muzan was sure about what he smelled.... Tsugikuni Yoriichi wasn't a beta.

He was an omega.

But did a freakishly good job at hiding his scent if even his own brother hadn't realized it...

Well... He is dead now so it doesn't matter. It's a pity though... Tsugikuni Yoriichi was breathtaking after all.

It was exactly after this incident with Muzan and Tamayo, that the news of his brother appeared.

Because he had failed to kill Kibutsuji Muzan and he had allowed a demon - Tamayo - to escape, he was banished from Demon Slaying.

Some even said he should commit suicide, completely forgetting that it was him who taught them all the breathing styles of Water, Flame, Rock, Thunder and Wind.

But the young master wouldn't allow it.

So Yoriichi continued to travel, slaying demons... But he was no longer part of Demon Slaying Corps.

And than his feet took him to Sumiyoshi's home.

After telling him everything he felt a little better.

He knew they would never meet again. So he left his precious earrings with Sumiyoshi. Yoriichi knew he would take good care of them.

And as he made his way through mountains, he blew into a flute his elder brother made for him.

His brother was a very nice person. Yoriichi never could speak up honestly, so he preferred staying silent. But his brother didn't seem to mind.

His brother gave him this flute one day after father beat him and said:

"Blow this flute whenever you need help. I will come to help you. So stop worrying about a thing and smile."

While Yoriichi knew his brother won't come, blowing this flute made him fell better. Like all the sadness and anxiety was leaving his body together with his breath.

Like this, life was running fast. Yoriichi lost track of time as he continued to roam the world and slaying demons.

It was on a night, when full blood moon was out. It shone brighter than ever before, making the sky appear like it was red instead of black.

That night, Yoriichi's sword burned red for the last time.

Yoriichi saw black.

A face of a gentle man who looked almost identical to Sumiyoshi smiled brightly down at him.

"Look, Kie. Our son is finally awake. Look."

The excitement and love in his voice made Yoriichi cry. The first cry in his second life.

His new father passed him to his new mother with panicked expression.

"He looks just like you, my dear Tanjuro. These gentle eyes... What should we name him?"

"Tanjiro. His name should be Tanjiro."

"Well than. Welcome to this world, Kamado Tanjiro, my little omega prime."

"Our little Tanjiro will be a heartbreaker."

Said his father and both his new parents erupted into a laughter.  Yoriichi couldn't help the smile that broke on his face. 

Yoriichi accepted his new life. He was grateful for this second chance. He knew that in this life, he wouldn't fail his purpose. He would kill Kibutsuji Muzan.

His new parents were very kind people. Just like Sumiyoshi and Suyako. And Yoriichi couldn't help the love he felt for them.

When he was only one year old, his younger sister was born. Her name was Nezuko. And it took only one pink-eyed stare in his own red eyes for him to fall in love with her. He wouldn't fail her like he failed his older brother.

Tanjiro's eyes cried once again, as he cradled his little sister to his little chest.

And their parents watched with smiles on their faces.

Soon, he got another younger siblings. And just like with Nezuko his breath hitched when he saw them for the first time in his life.

He loved his new family. And they loved him. In this mountain where he once saved his best friend's life, he found what he was always looking for. He found a place to call home and loving family.

He was really grateful to Sumiyoshi, for his earrings and Hinokami Kagura were passed down. As he watched his father dance, he couldn't help the nostalgia that took over his heart.

'Thank you, Sumiyoshi. Thank you.'

Tanjiro was seven years old when he told his father he wants to dance for the Fire God in his place. His father was sick after all. He needs all the rest he could get.

Tanjuro couldn't believe that this was his son. The one dancing in their traditional clothes was moving like the dance was a part of him. He looked like a spirit from some fairy tale. It looked like Tanjiro was born for this dance.

Once Tanjiro's dance came to an end, Nezuko couldn't his her excitement and immediately started asking questions. They were the same ones she asked him...

"How can you dance so long without feeling tired or cold?"

And Tanjiro answered all her questions with a little smile on his normally emotionless face.

"Just before you start, take a really deep breath. It's the breathing that is keeping your body from feeling exhausted or cold."

Tanjuro knew he doesn't have much time left. That's why the next day, he gave his son his precious earrings which were passed down many, many generations before him.

With this Tanjuro kept his promise. Earrings and Kagura were in the hands of his beloved son omega prime.

And he knew Tanjiro would take care of them.

Tanjiro was really happy to be born into such a loving family. It was a honour for him to be reborn into his best friend's family. He would keep all of them safe.

In this life, he wouldn't fail.

But his little heaven couldn't last forever and he knew it. His father grew weaker and weaker everyday. And one month after Rokuta was born, Kamado Tanjuro died. And Yoriichi felt his hear break one more time.

Their happy lives continued. Everything seemed to be perfect.

But then, as Tanjiro made his way up the mountain after he sold all the charcoal in his basket a smell of blood made him stop in his track.  Thanks to his birthmark, his senses were always sharper then other's. He could see the Transparent World, he could hear the sound of all the living things and he could smell ones emotions.

Whenever happiness is destroyed, there is always the smell of blood.

The basket fall to the ground as Tanjiro took a really deep breath. A sound like lightning just struck could be heard in the town.

But rain never came...

Chapter Text

Tanjiro never in both of his lives felt this disgusted with himself. If it he stayed home... Then the Kamados, Sumiyoshi's descendants and his family would be still alive.

How could he let this happen? Why did he not stay home? Why wasn't he there?! They are dead. Nezuko... Nezuko is the only one still warm.

Maybe if he could just get her to a doctor in time... It's no use. He can't use the breath of thunder. His lungs... His body won't listen to him. His legs won't move faster no matter how hard he tried. Why... WHY?!

Why can't he breath?! His lungs felt like they are going to burst. The mark on his head is burning. Is he sick? Or is it because he is too scared? Because he feels like he is drowning? Why when he needs the power granted to him, he can't use it?!

Tears streamed down Tanjiro's face, as he carried his sister on his back. He knew Nezuko isn't human anymore. So what?! Nezuko... His kind little sister Nezuko would never hurt a living soul. He is sure of that. He is sure!

Suddenly, Nezuko started moving and growling. Tanjiro slipped and they fell down a snowy mountains.

'The snow saved me... Well... I slipped thanks to snow to begin with but... Oh right! Nezuko!"

"Nezuko?! Where are you, Nezuko?!"

And than he saw her standing on her feet, face down to the ground. When she looked up, her eyes were light pink with slitted pupils and veins around them. A long nails and pointed teeth...

"Nezuko! Nezuko do you know who I am? Please say something!"

Tanjiro's breathing was fast. He was gasping for air. Tears still running down his face... Now even more. He was starting to despair. This was his fault. In both of his lives, never had he showed this much emotions. He needs to calm down. But he can't do that until he makes sure his sister is okay.

"O-Onii-chan..."

"Nezuko!" He enveloped her in almost bone-crushing hug. "I am so, so sorry. I should have been there... I ... I..."

"I-it's... Okay... I... Glad you-u okay."

Like a magic, Tanjiro finally could breathe normally.
Of course... Of course his kind and loving sister wouldn't blame him. Of course she would be more worried about him that herself...

"Let's go back... And take care of everyone, okay."

Nezuko only nodded. Then Tanjiro saw a demon slayer. He had breathtaking blue eyes. Long black hair, but not at long as Tanjiro. The Slayer's hair were tied in a ponytail. Tanjiro had his almost knee long hair down, while the shorter strands of his hair were neatly put around his face.

The Slayer was and alpha. And he was about to behead his sister. Thank god that Tanjiro took the hatchet with him. With one hand on Nezuko's wrist, he quickly hid her behind him and with other hand, which was holding the hatchet, stopped the swordsman's attack... Breath of water... Interesting. So the breathing forms still preserved to this day.

The Slayer looked surprised at this. Well, Tanjiro would be surprised too, if a 15 years old boy just stopped his attack with only hatchet and one hand while protecting a demon.

Tomioka Giyuu couldn't believe his eyes. Just as he was about to behead this demon girl before she could eat the boy - probably her brother - said boy stopped his attack. What's more, he stopped Tomioka's Nichirin Blade with only one hand and a hatchet.

And as if it wouldn't be enough surprises for one day, suddenly, as strong and cold winter wind passed by them, Tomioka smelled the most enchanting scent in his life. This boy was an omega. And not just some ordinary omega.

He smelled like a sunrise. It was as if just by inhaling his scent, everything around them started to wake up to a new life.

This scent was enchanting.

This scent was seducing.

This scent was that of an omega prime.

And this little omega prime had the most beautiful eyes Tomioka Giyuu had ever seen. His eyes were full of kindness. But they were also filled with uncontrollable sadness.

He soon woke up from his daydream when he finally remembered why he was here in a first place.

"Why are you protecting it?" Giyuu asked, clearly confused. With that clash of sword and hatchet Giyuu realised this boy wasn't just some ordinary civilian. Well... Aside the fact that he is probably the only omega prime alive in like... 200 years.

"She is not it."

"It's a demon."

"She's my little sister."

"No. Not anymore. She is a demon now and she will feed on humans eventually. My job is to slay a demons like her to predict such a disaster to happen."

"Nezuko wouldn't eat anyone." The boy answered. Tomioka had heard this answer many times and the result was always the same.

"Don't make me laugh."

"I'm not trying to. I will make sure she won't eat anyone and I will find Kibutsuji Muzan and make him turn her back to her human self." Now... This was even more interesting. How does this boy know about the original demon himself?

"How do you know that name?"

"He is the one who killed my family. He is also the only demon able to turn humans into a demons."

"That doesn't answer my question." Giyuu waited, but it didn't seem like the boy was going to answer him. And he isn't stupid. That boy stopped his attack. Trying to fight him is a waste of time. This boy was stronger than him.

Maybe it was the fact that he was stronger than him.
Maybe it was the fact that this boy is omega prime... very cute one at that.
Maybe it was the fact that through this whole conversation the girl - Nezuko - hadn't done anything. She just told there, holding her brother's hand.

But Giyuu eventually sheathed his sword.

"Then become a demon slayer and prove to everyone that what you just said is true."

"Kamado Tanjiro."

"What?"

"My name."

"I see. Than follow me, Kamado-san. I will take you to Mt. Sagiri. Urokodaki Sakonji-sensei will teach you everything you need to know."

"Tanjiro is enough."

"Tanjiro. My name's Tomioka Giyuu."

Chapter Text

Tomioka Giyuu helped them burry their dead family.

"I'm sorry."

"What for?"

"If I had gotten here half a day earlier, your family wouldn't have been killed."

"You would die too." Well... That wasn't what Giyuu was expecting.

"You said you would kill the demon who did this and that you have a keen sense of smell. There is only one demon who can turn human into one of them."

"I know. And I will kill Kibutsuji Muzan this time."

"This time?" But once again, Giyuu hadn't got his answer. Tanjiro choose to remain silent. He never answered when Giyuu asked how he knows about demons.

After making a basket for Nezuko, so they could move even under the sun, they finally left the mountain. As they were descending, Tanjiro thew one last look at the place where he lived his dream for fifteen beautiful years. When his eyes started to fill with tears he quickly averted his eyes on the alpha in front of him.

Two days later, they both finally reached the house of Urokodaki Sakonji - a trainer.

After Giyuu shortly explained what happened, Urokodaki took Tanjiro up the mountain. Giyuu stayed behind, watching over Nezuko while she slept.

The higher they got, the thinner the air got. It would be a serious problem, if only Tanjiro didn't already knew the breathing forms. He also noticed the traps. He was told that if he made it down the mountain before sunrise he would be accepted as Urokodaki's disciple... Urokodaki himself then vanished into thin air...

Well, it wasn't like Urokodaki could teach him anything new but if he wanted to slay demons, he needed a Nichirin Blade. And the only way to get one is to clear the Final Selection. He wonders if his friend Hotaru (the one who made Yoriichi's sword in the past) kept his word and really hid his sword as he promised after Yoriichi's death... Maybe they will let him go to the Swordsmith Village to look for it.

Well... Firth things first. He needs to get down the mountain.

He took a deep breath And with breath of thunder made his way down the mountain. Just in time to see Urokodaki opening the door to his house.

"Done."

"How did you -"

"Breath of thunder."

A silence fell over them. Giyuu came out with slightly widened eyes.

"So you really do know a breathing style. Who thought you?"

"No one."

"You are self-taught?" Asked Urokodaki.

"Yes..." Well... Technically Yoriichi isn't lying. Just not telling the whole truth. That's different. But judging from their reactions, they didn't believe him. Even with his emotionless face, he never could lie to anyone.

"Then why do you want to learn Water Breathing?"

"I don't." 'I already know it. I made it...' Tanjiro thought with what could be a bored tone. But it was really just him being his emotionless self.

"I want you to tell me about demon Slaying Corps. Who are the current Hashiras? When will the Final Selection be? And also... Tell me more about this age."

"Age?" Giyuu asked. Here he was, this boy and his strange way of phrasing things. Could it be, because he lived in a  mountain his whole life?

"It's Taisho Era right now."

"Oh..." So more than 400 years have passed.

"Now answer my question." Giyuu interrupted when he noticed his sensei trying to say something. Probably answering the other questions. "It's only fair... Question for question, answer for answer, right?"

It took Tanjiro some time to make up his mind but... Even if he tells them the truth they wouldn't believe him. And he can't lie. So there is nothing for him to loose.

"All right. What do you want to know."

"Which era were you born in?"

"Taisho." Again. He isn't lying... Technically. "Now my turn."

"You know that's not what I meant." The blue-eyed alpha Giyuu seemed to slowly becoming angry... Maybe he should stop fooling around after all. The last thing he needs is to have a fight with an alpha.

"Sengoku."

When his former student, now Water Hashira brought back with him a little male omega prime, Urokodaki was very interested what kind of person this little omega is that he could attract someone as disinterested as Giyuu.

What he wasn't expecting was his little sister Kamado Nezuko, turned into a demon with a bamboo nuzzle on her mouth.

Both the omega prime, whose name is Kamado Tanjiro, and his former student (cough - son - cough) claiming she wouldn't kill a single human. It was hard to believe something like this. It was like out of fairy tale. But she really didn't attack him, Tanjiro or Giyuu even when you could see how starved she was. Instead she fell asleep. And she didn't wake up no matter how hard they tried.

He took Tanjiro up the mountain. He was surprised once again, when not even 2 minutes later Tanjiro was behind him without even a scratch.

Turns out he knows Thunder Breathing... How? That's the question they didn't receive answer to. Tnjiro choose to remain silent. This is slightly frustrating for both him and Giyuu. But they can't just force answers out of this little omega prime.

Besides... Urokodaki has the feeling that Tanjiro could beat the crap out of them without even trying. Truly terrifying.

Kamado Tanjiro was extremely powerful. The fact that he was an omega prime only added to his strength.

He didn't even need to train him because apparently... Tanjiro already knew The Breath of Water. He didn't need to say it out loud. It was clear from his face. Well... His eyes. His face surprisingly hadn't changed since Urokodaki first saw him.

He was also extremely beautiful. His beauty was a weapon itself. He caught the eyes of Tomioka after all. Many alphas will have to be chased away.

Sakonji wonders if there will ever be an alpha courageous enough to try to conquer this calm and humble omega out. Tanjiro is very simple. But also very quiet, which makes him more mysterious. His aura screams power and danger. But when you look into his ruby eyes, it's as if they are without a light in them, but glistering with tears. Urokodaki never saw such sad eyes. Eyes of someone, who didn't think he was worth anything. And yet he is ready to throw his life away in seconds if it means protecting his loved ones - his alpha little sister Nezuko.

Urokodaki came to love this little Kamados. So he will do anything in his power to bring even a little bit of light back to these beautiful eyes.

And while he knew Tanjiro is perfectly capable of protecting himself, human's heart is weak. And Urokodaki is never going to let someone hurt this little omega prime, whom he already saw as a son. Much like he did with Sabito and Giyuu when he first saw them.

They solved one mystery. Tanjiro wasn't born in Taisho. He was born in Sengoku. Reincarnation wasn't really something Urokodaki believed in, but there are living demons in this world. So why not reincarnation?

But no matter how hard he and Giyuu tried, Tanjiro didn't say anything else. He didn't ask anything else. It was like he was scared to actually talk about himself.

When Kasugai Crow came with a mission for Tomioka, he stood up and left without a word. But Urokodaki knew he was very disappointed for not getting more answers out of Tanjiro.

Once Giyuu was away, Urokodaki told Tanjiro about Hashiras, the rankings, including when is the Final Selection. He gave Tanjiro a free hand.

Tanjiro would always, every morning, wake up with the sunrise, go up the mountain to train with a bamboo sword and return before sunset.

He did this for two years. It helped with getting his body into the right shape he needed for his Sun Breathing.

Nezuko never once woke up from her sleep.

And so 2 years have passed. And Tanjiro is going to take his Final Selection.

Urokodaki watched him go and prayed, that he would kill that one demon who took his precious disciples away.

Chapter Text

During those two years where Tanjiro was training on his own, he found a big boulder. It was one week before his Final Selection. Urokodaki told him that if he really wishes to take the final selection, he has to cut this boulder. So with training sword in hand, he got in the right stance for water breathing. 

As he was about to swing his sword down and end the life of this innocent boulder, when another sword blocked his. A boy slightly older than him, with fox mask on his head stood in front of him. He had pink hair which fell down past his shoulders. But that wasn't what caught Tanjiro's attention. Nor was the little girl behind him, sitting on earlier mentioned  boulder. What really caught Tanjiro's attention was the fact, that this boy and girl... They did not have a scent. And they were not betas because he couldn't hear any sound coming out of them. Which meant... They are dead... A normal person would probably freak out by now, but well... Let's be honest. Yoriichi was born in Sengoku and than reincarnated in Taisho as Tanjiro. If reincarnation is real, why ghosts wouldn't be? For god's sake, there are DEMONS out there, roaming world like it was the most natural thing. One couldn't really be surprised with ghosts. 

"What are you doing. You can't actually think you will be able to cut that boulder with a sword like that, right?" Asked him the boy. 

"Don't bully him too much, Sabito. He is such a pretty omega prime. It would be really saddening to see him scared of us." 

"Shut up, Makomo! Omega prime or not, if he is a real man, he should know that he can't cut a boulder this big with a training sword!" The boy - now Sabito - yelled and the girl - Makomo. 

"Sabito and Makomo?"  Both of them looked at Tanjiro with clear confusion on their faces. Well, on Makomo's face since Sabito still had the fox mask on. 

"What are you talking about?"

"Are those your names?"

"Obviously." For some reason which Tanjiro couldn't understand, Sabito got angry at him. What did he do wrong this time? It seems that interacting with people is as hard as it always was. 

"Can you move out of my way? I have to cut that boulder or else Urokodaki-san won't let me take the final selection."

"Like I said you can't cut-"

"I can." Tanjiro spoke over him. He never did something this rude to anyone. But his patience was very thin right now. He wanted to get back and check on Nezuko as soon as possible.  It seems like this angered Sabito even more as he stormed out of Tanjiro's way while muttering about something being impossible. Yes... Tanjiro does NOT understand humans. 

Once both Makomo and Sabito were out of his way, he took the stance for water breathing. With one deep breath, he sliced the boulder in four pieces. He was so fast that Makomo and Sabito hadn't seen it. All they saw was ruined boulder, now laying on the ground in four pieces. They were left with their mouths hanging open and before they realised it, Tanjiro was gone.

One day before Final Selection, Tanjiro appeared back in front of Urokodaki's home. 

"So you did cut that boulder."

"Yes."

"Why did I expect it?" Sakonji said with a smile. It couldn't be seen because of the mask, but Tanjiro knew it was there. And that was enough. 

But why should Tanjiro know the answer to this...? Oh... That was rethorical question, wasn't it? 

A silence fell upon them as they sat together while drinking tea. This peaceful silence was ruined by Urokodaki's question, which almost killed Tanjiro because he almost choked on his tea. 

"What happened in your past life to make you this sad, Yoriichi-san?"

Tanjiro once again didn't know what to say. He was left speechless. In the end he found the strength in him to ask one single question. 

"How did you find out?"

"It wasn't really that hard. You are quite famous among Demon Slaying Corps. You are the one who made the very first breathing techniques, after all."

"What have me away? The only thing me and Tanjiro have in resemblance are our hair and eyes. Even this mark I was born with once again is different shape than it was in my first life."

"Well, I must admit that the stories that got told about you weren't near as enough as it should be. Thanks to you, Demon Slayers did not lost their lives so easily... 
To be honest, it was a wild guess.
You said you were born in Sengoku Era.
You do know the breathing styles without anyone teaching you. 
I also know that up until two years ago when Giyuu brought you here, you never held a sword in your hands. Your hands were too clean and soft. Now they are the hands of a swordsman. Hardened with many scars.
You also said and proved that you have higher senses than average human. Smell... Hearing... Even eyes... they are almost as good as -"

"As demon's. I know."

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to offend you."

"You didn't. Don't worry. I'm used to it."

"Used to it?" This didn't make sense to Urokodaki. A human as beautiful as this was used to being called something so degrading? Who would dare to do that?

"When I was still Yoriichi. People used to call me many things. Some called me genius. Some even called me god. But others called me monster because of my breathing style. Kibutsuji Muzan is one of them. But I'm, and I always was just a human."

"You... You met Kibutsuji Muzan?"

"I couldn't kill him or my brother who got turned into a demon himself to become more powerful. And because of that I got thrown out from Demon Slaying Corps. I'm forever grateful to the young master Ubuyashiki at that time. Without his interference, they would make me split my stomach open to atone for my brother's and mine sins."

"What were your sins? If you don't mind me asking, of course."

"I don't. This is the most I have talked in my life to be honest. I like talking to you, Urokodaki-san. I don't mind telling you about myself if that's what you wish to know. But I'm not sure myself about my sins. I don't thing I did something wrong at that time. I regret not being able to kill Kibutsuji Muzan. That is true. But apart from that... I still don't know what I did wrong. Maybe because I let Tamayo-san go? I'm not sure. She was a kind lady. I didn't see the point in killing her."

"Who is Tamayo-san?"

"A demon. She hated Kibutsuji Muzan as much as we do. When Kibutsuji got away from me, instead of trying to run away or begging for me to spare her like others demons did, she broke down. She kneeled and gripped her head hard enough to pull some hairs out. She even cried in front of me. And than told me everything she knew at that time."

"If that's the case, you didn't do anything wrong. On the contrary, it's amazing you almost killed the one demon we have been hunting for many centuries. And even more amazing to get out of that alive." 

Another silence followed after their conversation. Suddenly, one single tear slid down Yoriichi's face and little smile, almost invisible appeared on his cherry lips. 

"Thank you... Urokodaki-san. You are really an amazing person."

"Tomorrow, take this fox mask with you. It has a protection spell in it." Tanjiro took it with gratitude, his heart filled with warmth. 

Without any of them noticing it, one single Kasugai Crow heard their whole conversation. Now she needs to take this news to Ubuyashiki Kagaya as soon as possible. 

The sun has finally came back to them.

Swordsmith Hotaru was right to hide his sun's sword, and keeping his name written down in history after all... 

Chapter Text

The next day came and with it Final Selection too. Tanjiro was walking up the long stairs surrounded by violet wisteria flowers. In these two years, Nezuko never once woke up. She stayed with Urokodaki-san in his home. Hopefully once Tanjiro comes back, she will be awake. He is really worried about her. 

He finally made it to the top of this mountain. He was greeted by a beautiful scenery of violet wisteria surrounding him and many others young men and women who also came to take the final selection in hopes to get into a Demon Slaying Corps. Tanjiro was bewildered by this sight. He never saw something this beautiful. And he was never surrounded by so many people... And everyone knew he was really bad at interacting with others. So it didn't come as surprise when he bumped into someone two heads taller than him, which made him fall painfully on his butt... Amazing first impression. Not to mention it really hurt. And this body wasn't used to pain like his old one was. So no matter how hard he tried, he couldn't stop the tears from appearing in his eyes. But fortunately, he didn't start crying. That would be really... embarrassing. Mentioned tall person slowly turned around, and with pissed off face started yelling at Tanjiro. Said person was named Shinazugawa Genya.

"Look where you're going you...!!" But when he spotted Tanjiro, sitting on the  cold, hard floor, with tears in his eyes, he stopped himself and almost lost the feeling in his legs. Almost. Even with tears in his eyes and with clear pain written on his face, it was clear that this omega prime before Genya was the most beautiful person he had ever seen. 

Tanjiro slowly stood up, and made a quick apology and walked away without looking back. Genya still stood there, completely lost, so much, he almost didn't hear the Ubuyashiki twins staring the Final Selection. Fortunately, someone told him that he was supposed to come back alive after seven days spent with demons. And that means he can kill as many of them, as he wants. This will be fun. 

The first demon Tanjiro came across was nothing like he expected... No... Really. He never expected a demon running away from him in this little 17 years old body. Not to mention this time around he wasn't even hiding the fact that he is an omega. 

When the demon saw him, it seemed like he remembered him. As if they had met before. But Yoriichi is pretty sure he never saw this demon. For all the demons he had seen, he had also killed. Well... except Tamayo, Muzan, his older brother and Nezuko. 

This happened every time. When the demons saw him, they ran away almost immediately. He won't be able to kill any demons at this rate. Should he start chasing them? But that's too much work... Well... Time will tell. 

It seem like there is one demon, who does not fear him. Or better said... This demon only pays attention to the fox mask he had got from Urokodaki-san. The hand demon said, he was brought here by Ukokodaki and that he had been killing all his disciples for revenge. With single description, Tanjiro was able to understand why he didn't smell anything from Sabito and Makomo. They were dead. This demon killed them. With a swingof his sword, bright orange flames erupted from Tanjiro's training Nichirin Blade and cut the hand demon's head off. As Tanjiro was about to leave, suddenly he smelled a saddens coming from the now dying demon. Tanjiro took his outstretched hand, and started praying. Praying that this sad soul will have a better next life. And that he will never become demon ever again. 
He really, honestly prayed for him...

When Tanjiro excited the forest, he was greeted by the Ubuyashiki twins. They were explaining the procedure of making a Nichirin Blade. It went surprisingly well. Without any problems. Everyone had picked their 'sword material' and it was his turn. 

"I already have a sword. I want to go to the Swordsmith Village and find it, if Oyakata-sama allows it."

Tanjiro doesn't understand what part of this sentence made everyone present look at him like he was crazy. And he will probably never find out...

As soon as he got his Kasugai Crow, he send it to the Ubuyashiki household with his request to visit the Swordsmith Village. He made his way back to Urokodaki-san and Nezuko. And once he saw Nezuko standing in front of Urokodaki-san's house, awake and alive, he fell to his knees and started crying like he never did before. Maybe his sister and Urokodaki-san can finally bring out all the emotions he has been hiding for both his lives. That's something they should ponder about in the future. 

Tight now, right here, Tanjiro was just so happy to see his sister awake, he almost missed when Urokodaki-san joined their little hug and stated silently crying as well.

Really. 

Tanjiro was so glad to be alive. 

Chapter Text

The thing Tanjiro never expected, was the appearance of Haganezuka the very next morning. 

"Ummm... Excuse me but... Who might you be?" Tanjiro asked and smiled. Well at least tried. He isn't sure if he was able to smile properly. 

"My name is Haganezuka. I have forged Kamado Tanjiro's sword and I'm here to deliver it." 

"Please come inside."

But completely ignoring Tanjiro's words, Haganezuka sat down on the ground and started explaining what Nichirin Sword is... But really. Tanjiro already heard it all from the twins in Final Selection. Not to mention, he already knew that when he was still Yoriichi. But it didn't look like Haganezuka was going to listen. And Tanjiro felt really bad for letting him sit on the ground. 

Thank God for Urokodaki-san, who finally managed to get Haganezuka to go inside and take a cup of tea. And for the first time since arriving, Haganezuka finally looked at Tanjiro. Tanjiro never really understood what it was with Swordsmiths and their weird clown masks. But he himself has a red mark on his forehead since forever so he can't really judge. 

"Hey! You are a child of brightness, aren't you? That's what I call lucky."

"No. I have no idea what you're talking about. I'm a son of Tanjuro and Kie." 

This is really confusing. What child of brightness? He looks almost the same as he did in his first life and no one has ever called him that. Haganezuka then started angrily hitting Tanjiro's head with a finger. Just what is happening. Please someone explain this situation to this poor omega. He is completely lost. 

"That's not what I meant. See how your hair and eyes are reddish colour? When a kid like you is born into a family that works with fire, it's considered lucky and a cause for celebration."

"Is that right? I had no idea..."

What irony. In his first life everyone (except for his mother) tried to kill him exactly because of this. And because he was a younger twin, and twins were considered a bad omen. But that's a different story. Moving on... 

"There's a good chance that this sword will turn red! Right, Urokodaki?" 

Haganezuka said excitedly with Urokodaki-san quietly nodding his head beside him. Guess both of them were looking forward to it... And Tanjiro couldn't help the feeling that he will let them both down. After all, his first sword was deep black. It only turns red when he uses his Sun Breathing. Apologizing in his head, Tanjiro draws his new sword. 

And as he was saying. Both of their smells turned incredibly disappointed once the blade turned pitch black. Tanjiro felt really bad. And it must have somehow shown on his face because Haganezuka stopped complaining and Urokodaki tried to cheer him up by giving him another cup of tea. Tanjiro appreciated the gesture. 

Tanjiro wasn't really surprised. The sword was good. Very good. It's just that it can never be as good as his original sword. His friend spent 5 years making it after all. It was considered the best sword ever forged in Swordsmith Village. He was sure this sword won't last long and it will break eventually. But he was still gonna be very cautious and he will treasure it. Haganezuka must have put a lot of effort to make it after all. But he still wants his first sword back. He really has to go to Ubuyashiki personally to get the permission. 

Just as he was thinking about Ubuyashiki, crow descended from heaven with his new mission. 

"Kamado Tanjiro. Here are your orders! Make your way to a town to the northwest! Young girls have been vanishing there! Night after night, girls have been vanishing! Hunt down the demon lurking there and kill it! Kamado Tanjiro, prepare yourself well for this task! This is your first assignment as a Demon Hunter!" 

"I respectfully accept this mission." 

Tanjiro said and slightly bowed to the crow, then to Urokodaki-san and Haganezuka. Tanjiro went to the side room to fetch his sister. When he came back to where he left Urokodaki-san and Haganezuka, the Swordsmith was gone. 

"Tanjiro. Wait a moment. Now that you are starting out with the Demon Slayer Corps, you will need something better than that pitiful basket for your sister. That's why I made this box for your sister. You can carry her in it during the day without worrying about the sun leaking through. Built out of extremely light wood called 'Cloud Mist Pine'. I coated it with rock lacquer to reinforce its exterior and to make it even more durable."

"Thank you very much, Urokodaki-san. I really don't know how I can thank you enough." 

And without realising it, after long years, Tanjiro smiled. Unrestrained, beautiful smile now adored his face. Urokodaki felt like a proud father seeing that. 

"The face you are making now is payment enough. Just promise me you will come back alive. But with your power, I don't even date to doubt that."

And with that said, his sister safely in the box, crow on his shoulder and one last hug, Tanjiro finally left for his new mission as the Demon Slayer.

Chapter Text

Hello guys.
This is a short notice from me about the future of this FF.

I just wanna let you know that I am NOT GIVING UP on this story.

I have had a really bad things happen to me in the last years, not just because of Covid but... generally.
It's been really hard on me and even though I read all your comments (which I'm really grateful for the support 🙏) I can't seem to bring myself to actually sit down, take the time needed and write a new chapter.
Even though I have so many ideas. 😔
I'm frustrated with myself. And I believe you guys are too. But I promise I WILL finish this story. I just can't promise you it will be anytime soon.

Anyways... thank you all for reading this notice as well as my story. Thank you also for the support.
I hope I'll pull myself together soon enough but like I said... no promises. 🥲
That's all from me.

I hope you guys are fairing better and I hope you are all feeling good, happy and healthy.
Have a nice day/night. ❤️❤️