After traversing a dense jungle and crossing Mount Natagumo, what appeared before them was a hidden clearing nestled deep within lush woods. In the center stood a luxurious mansion wrapped in gray-blue brick walls. In front of it stretched a vast courtyard spanning several hundred square meters, flanked by clean, pale-gray stone paths lined with colorful flowers, trees, and grass. At the edges ran a clear, blue stream with a slowly turning waterwheel, occasionally letting out crisp splashes.
This place felt entirely different from the wilderness before it—like a peaceful haven untouched by the outside world, filled with warmth and tranquility.
"Welcome to the Demon Slayer Corps Headquarters, Shogun~."
Shinobu, ever graceful, twirled lightly like a butterfly as she spoke sweetly to her companion.
"…This is the place?"
The Shogun stopped and looked around thoughtfully. It wasn't at all what she had imagined.
"Not what you expected?"
Beside her, Giyu Tomioka asked quietly.
"Indeed…" she replied.
"What kind of place did you imagine the Headquarters to be?" Shinobu asked, smiling playfully as she approached.
"…Something more solemn, perhaps—surrounded by sword-wielding warriors standing guard."
The Shogun narrowed her eyes slightly as she spoke. Perhaps it was habit from her days in Inazuma; she had unconsciously imagined something like Inazuma Castle. But she had overestimated—it wasn't as though the Demon Slayer Corps was a showy organization that needed such grandeur. That would defeat its very purpose.
"Pfft~ you really overestimated us, you know. This is the Headquarters, yes, but our people aren't all gathered here."
The Corps' numbers were considerable, but most members were stationed elsewhere—at regional branches, medical stations like the Butterfly Estate, or other posts.
"I see… it seems this vessel was ignorant of such details."
The Shogun nodded slightly, answering with mild embarrassment.
"It's fine~ that's perfectly normal," Shinobu replied, smiling affectionately.
"…'This vessel'?"
Giyu, having caught her self-referential phrasing, frowned slightly and repeated her words in confusion.
"…"
She shot him a quiet glance.
"It means 'I'. And questioning someone's speech habits is rather impolite."
Her tone was calm but carried authority.
"…"
Giyu fell silent once again.
"Hehe~ see? That's why everyone finds him hard to get along with," Shinobu said with a light giggle.
"…What are your plans next?" Giyu asked, changing the subject.
"Us? I'm taking Miss Raiden to meet the Master. Would you like to come, Giyu-san?"
"No. You handle that boring task yourself."
With that, he turned and walked away—heading toward the back courtyard.
"…"
The Shogun watched his departing figure, her eyes narrowing slightly in contemplation.
"Sigh… don't mind him. That's just how he is. He's not good at expressing himself, especially when it comes to welcoming people," Shinobu said with a resigned smile.
"I didn't take offense. Besides… sigh... I don't care much about others' opinions of me," the Shogun replied calmly.
Unless they were someone close to her, such things held little weight.
"Hehe… I like that about you," Shinobu said softly.
"…Flattery. Weren't you going to take me to your Master?"
Hearing the word 'like,' the Shogun's expression flickered slightly. She instinctively diverted the conversation.
"Oh right! I almost forgot—come on, let's go~."
...
Knock knock…
Shinobu tapped gently on the sliding door of one of the rooms inside the mansion.
"Shinobu?" came a man's calm voice from within. His tone was serene, as though he had already anticipated their arrival.
"Come in."
The Shogun followed as Shinobu slid open the door.
"Master, I've brought Miss Raiden," Shinobu said respectfully, bowing before Kagaya Ubuyashiki, who had been waiting for them.
"I see… Please, have our guest seated," he said softly, his tranquil smile never fading.
At this moment, Kagaya Ubuyashiki sat on the sofa opposite them, a refined cane resting gently in his hand. Upon hearing Shinobu's words, he smiled faintly and gestured gracefully toward the sofa across from him.
"Please, have a seat."
"Understood…" Shinobu bowed respectfully, then turned to Miss Raiden and motioned politely.
"(Shogun… please sit.)" she whispered softly as a gentle reminder.
"…Much obliged."
The Shogun followed her lead, stepping forward with composed elegance. She adjusted the hem of her kimono before quietly taking a seat on the sofa with perfect poise.
Shinobu, meanwhile, stepped back slightly, standing just behind the sofa at her side—almost like an attendant.
"...?"
The Shogun, seated, glanced up at her in mild confusion. Shinobu simply smiled reassuringly in response.
"..."
The Shogun turned her gaze back ahead, instinctively letting her knees draw together and tilt slightly to the side—an unintentional gesture of grace that made Shinobu smile faintly to herself.
"Welcome to the Demon Slayer Corps Headquarters, Miss Raiden."
The man before her finally spoke. His voice, though young, carried an air of calm dignity.
"Allow me to introduce myself. I am Kagaya Ubuyashiki, current leader and head of the Demon Slayer Corps. Most here address me as 'Oyakata-sama (Master)'."
As he spoke, he lifted a hand slightly to his chest in a gentle, formal gesture.
"An honor to meet you. I've often heard of you from Shinobu," the Shogun replied with equal courtesy.
"My name is Raiden—'Shogun'. I'm merely a traveler passing through, here at your invitation."
As she spoke, her eyes quietly surveyed the room—a lavish hall designed for receiving guests, perhaps part of the Master's private quarters. Sitting beside him were the two white-haired twin girls she had seen earlier, their silent gazes fixed on her.
"I've already heard much about you from Shinobu," Kagaya continued softly. "And since Miss Raiden was able to arrive here safely on foot, that means you've made your decision, haven't you?"
His words carried a subtle implication.
"..."
Shinobu lowered her eyes slightly, watching the Shogun's expression as she awaited her response.
"…In a sense, yes. I've accepted your invitation to serve as one of your Hashira," the Shogun replied with a slight nod.
"(!)"
At that, Shinobu's lips curved into a faint, relieved smile.
"Splendid. I've heard from Shinobu that Miss Raiden's martial prowess is exceptional. You wield the power of lightning without relying on any Breathing Techniques, and your strength surpasses even the traditional Thunder Breathing users. You can even decapitate demons without the aid of a Nichirin Blade… truly, a gift from the heavens."
"…You flatter me."
Her tone remained calm and composed—neither proud nor moved, simply modest.
"With someone as talented as Miss Raiden joining our ranks, the Corps shall indeed be as a tiger with wings," Kagaya said warmly, a smile gracing his lips. Yet his eyes… they held no light.
—He's blind.
The Shogun realized it at once.
"Joining you is fine. However, about the conditions I mentioned before—have you considered them carefully?" she asked calmly.
"Of course. I accept them all—no change of uniform, no formal kneeling or ceremonial courtesies, and you shall not be bound by our rules. You and I shall stand as equals. Is that acceptable?" Kagaya asked in return.
"Excellent," she replied, visibly satisfied.
(Pfft…)
Sensing her subtle shift in mood, Shinobu couldn't help but smile inwardly. In moments like these, the Shogun seemed almost childlike in her quiet stubbornness.
"There's one more thing," the Shogun said.
"Please, go on," Kagaya invited.
"Though I may serve as a Hashira, I am still a traveler. I cannot remain here permanently." Her tone grew slightly reserved, revealing a hint of distance.
"I understand. Shinobu has already informed me. That is no issue—as long as Miss Raiden can lend her strength when she is able, that will be more than enough," Kagaya replied humbly. After all, the position of the Thunder Hashira had long remained vacant. Few could shoulder such responsibility, and Miss Raiden's arrival felt nothing short of providence.
Just then, a commotion broke out in the courtyard outside. Voices could be heard, growing louder and more animated.
"It seems… the boy with the demon has arrived," Shinobu remarked lightly, as though she had expected it.
"Oh? That would be the boy named Tanjiro and his sister Nezuko, yes? Since they've arrived, we should go as well," Kagaya said.
With that, the two white-haired twins stepped forward to help him rise.
"Miss Raiden, please accompany me. It's time to introduce you to the other Hashira."
Once the Shogun stood, he turned to Shinobu.
"Shinobu, go and check on the boy's condition outside."
"As you wish, Master." Shinobu bowed slightly, then looked toward the Shogun.
(See you soon~)
She mouthed playfully before slipping out of the room. The Shogun gave a small nod in return.
Pshhk!
A black blade with faint green markings pierced cleanly through the wooden box—its tip driving straight into Nezuko's shoulder!
"Ugh!!"
Her face turned deathly pale in an instant, sweat pouring down as she bit hard on the bamboo muzzle, muffling her groan. Bright red blood streamed down the blade, seeping through the cracks of the box and dripping onto the pristine white stones below.
"Stop!!"
Bound tightly with ropes, Tanjiro could no longer bear it. He shouted furiously at the culprit—the Wind Hashira, Sanemi Shinazugawa.
"Stop? And who do you think you are to command me, huh?!"
Sanemi's lips curled into a deranged grin. As if amused by the defiance, he drove the blade even deeper.
Pshhk!
"Ugh!!"
Nezuko's hands clawed at the box's inner walls, her trembling fingers gripping the wood tightly as she endured the pain in silence.
Tap tap!
Tanjiro, face covered in cuts and bruises, pushed himself to his feet and rushed forward, glaring fiercely at the man before him.
"No matter who it is—Hashira or not—if anyone dares to hurt my sister, I'll never forgive them!" he roared, his voice trembling with rage.
"Heh… hahaha! Really now?!"
Swish!
Sanemi yanked his blade free, blood scattering through the air.
"Perfect, then!" he sneered, immediately raising the blade toward Tanjiro's throat. "Let's see if you can stop me from killing you, brat!"
"Ahhh!!"
Tanjiro lunged forward without hesitation, fury blazing in his eyes. Just as the clash was about to erupt—
"The Master has arrived! Stop this at once!"
Giyu Tomioka's sharp voice rang out across the courtyard as he caught sight of Kagaya Ubuyashiki stepping out of the room.
"The Master approaches!" ×2
The twin white-haired girls who accompanied Kagaya spoke in unison, their delicate voices echoing clearly for all present to hear.
"!" ×9
All nine Hashira turned immediately toward the hall.
Slide…
With the sound of the door opening, Kagaya emerged, dressed in a pure white robe, moving with calm grace as the twin girls supported him by each arm.
Step… step…
Beside him walked the Shogun, following quietly and observing the commotion outside with mild curiosity.
"You're all here, my beloved children of the sword," Kagaya said softly as he approached the eaves of the hall. The warmth of the morning sun and the distant song of birds brought a gentle smile to his face.
"..."
The Shogun studied his expression carefully. Was he… blind?
"Good morning, everyone. It's a fine day, isn't it? The sky must be blue—I can hear the birds singing," Kagaya said kindly, his tone light and conversational.
Hears them? So he really is blind, she confirmed inwardly.
Rustle! ×N
The next moment, every swordsman present swiftly dropped to one knee before Kagaya in perfect unison, the rustle of clothing filling the air. Among them was Shinobu, kneeling slightly to the left of center. From her position, she could easily see the Shogun—but given the formality of the moment, she kept her gaze lowered like the others. Even Tanjiro was forced down by Sanemi's hand.
"Master!" ×9
The collective voices of the Hashira—men and women alike—rose in reverent harmony.
"I'm glad to see everyone here. To welcome you all safely to our semiannual Hashira meeting brings me great joy," Kagaya said gently.
The Shogun's gaze swept over the kneeling figures before her. Each one bore distinct attire and presence—bright, colorful, and wildly individual, more like a group of eccentric performers than soldiers. There were towering figures among them, clearly the more boisterous types, while others, like Shinobu, appeared smaller, calmer, more refined. Giyu Tomioka, too, seemed one of the few composed ones.
Though all bowed respectfully, she could feel their occasional, inquisitive glances aimed her way—curious, assessing, even skeptical.
"Seeing you in good health, Master, brings me great relief. I sincerely wish for your continued well-being," Sanemi said politely, a stark contrast from his earlier aggression toward Tanjiro.
"Thank you, Sanemi, for your kind words," Kagaya replied gently.
(You said what I wanted to say!)
Love Hashira Mitsuri Kanroji silently pouted in mild protest, clutching her hands together as her heart fluttered.
"May your body remain as dazzling as ever."
It was the flamboyant blessing of the Sound Hashira—Tengen Uzui.
…Dazzling?
The Shogun blinked slightly, momentarily caught off guard by the odd phrasing.
"That's right! May you live long and stay healthy! May your meals always taste delicious!"
The Flame Hashira—Kyojuro Rengoku—exclaimed loudly, his bright eyes gleaming with unrestrained enthusiasm.
"Thank you for your kind wishes, my children," Kagaya said softly, smiling with quiet warmth.
"However… forgive my boldness, Master, but before we begin the meeting, I hope you can explain two matters."
Sanemi raised his head, his tone cold yet formal.
"Of course, go ahead, Sanemi," Kagaya replied gently. He already had an idea what the man was about to ask.
"Thank you, Master. The first question—who is that woman beside you? Why is she allowed to stand by your side, as your equal?"
Sanemi's feral, predatory gaze locked sharply onto the purple-haired woman beside Kagaya. The Shogun met his stare calmly, her own eyes narrowing slightly but showing not a trace of fear.
"..."
Shinobu quietly turned her head, glancing toward Sanemi, while Giyu cast her a brief sidelong look in turn. The atmosphere grew tense—uncomfortably so.
"The second question concerns Kamado Tanjiro… and the fact that he's brought a demon here. Please explain this to us clearly."
"Of course. Let's address these one at a time," Kagaya said softly. "As for the first question… the woman beside me—"
He raised a hand gently toward the Shogun.
All eyes turned toward her, a mix of curiosity and skepticism flickering across their faces. Some gazes even held traces of disdain.
"This is Miss Raiden," Kagaya said with calm authority. "She is an honored guest—personally invited by me."
He paused briefly before continuing.
"She is also the newest member of the Demon Slayer Corps. Miss Raiden will serve as our newly appointed Thunder Hashira. With her addition, the ten Hashira are once again complete. I ask that you all treat her with respect and cooperation."
"!" ×7
At his words, every Hashira except Shinobu and Giyu reacted in shock. The room was suddenly filled with murmurs, skeptical glares, and sharp, judgmental stares directed at her.
"...Hmph."
The Shogun crossed her arms quietly, showing no visible concern. She had expected this much. People were, by nature, creatures of pride and rivalry.
"…Master, what do you mean by this?"
The Serpent Hashira—Obanai Iguro—spoke first, his tone cold and suspicious. A white snake slithered lazily around his neck, its scales glinting in the light as it flicked its tongue.
"Heh… What a flamboyant joke," Uzui scoffed, flipping his long hair arrogantly.
"Ah~ I understand the Master's benevolent intentions, yet I find it hard to accept. Amitabha," the Stone Hashira—Gyomei Himejima—murmured prayerfully, his palms pressed together.
"Though I respect Master's wishes, I must solemnly oppose this decision!" Rengoku declared passionately, his voice echoing across the hall.
"U-um… everyone, can't we all just get along…? Please don't be like this, Miss Raiden is so pitiful," the Love Hashira—Mitsuri Kanroji—said softly, her eyes filled with worry.
(Wow~ this lady is so beautiful… ah~ that beauty mark under her eye… so charming!)
Despite her words, Mitsuri's face was flushed pink, her thoughts far from innocent.
"I object!"
Sanemi's cold voice sliced through the chatter, his tone sharp and final.
"..."
Kagaya remained silent, allowing the storm of voices to settle naturally.
"..."
Shinobu, too, had stayed quiet, her expression calm but her eyes slightly downcast.
"Master, that woman—what right does she have to be called a Hashira? We've never even met her. She's a stranger. Please, give us a reason," Sanemi demanded, his voice cold and forceful.
"This is the Master's command," Shinobu finally spoke, her gentle tone cutting through the tension like a blade. The moment her voice sounded, all eyes turned toward her.
"I know that! If she's just a guest of the Master, we'd have nothing more to say! But to call her a Hashira—that's another matter entirely! We are the Hashira—we have the right to object!" Sanemi barked.
So what now—anyone can just become a Hashira? What was this, a child's game?
"It was I who recommended her to the Master," Shinobu said firmly, her voice cooling to an icy tone. "Is that sufficient for you, Sanemi-san?"
"!" ×N
Several of the Hashira turned their eyes toward her in shock. Clearly, none of them had been informed of this beforehand. Meanwhile, Kagaya only smiled faintly, his serene expression never wavering.