Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

A broken heart is all that's left

I'm still fixing all the cracks 

***

When Giyuu had received the news, he didn’t want to believe them. No one did. Not when the most passionate slayer was mentioned. But they couldn’t fight it off. Not even Senjuro who had cried and clung himself to Mitsuri and Iguro. Not when Shinjiro, Kyojuro’s own father, asked Giyuu to be the one to behead him. 

“Rengoku Kyojuro has turned into a demon.”

Pain, agony, you name it. All of these emotions swirled in his chest as he held his nichirin blade. Tanjiro was standing behind him. His own blade pointing at upper moon three. Next to him was the person Giyuu loves, loved. He looked completely different. His kind and warm eyes were now cold and held no emotion. His hair, which he always had in a half ponytail, was loose. The tan skin Giyuu would mark when the two of them were tangled in the night was pale like his own. No scars in sight.

Everything that made Rengoku Kyojuro human was no more.

“Tell me your name. C’mon I know you can speak.” Akaza grinned at him. Golden eyes shining with interest as he stared at Giyuu. Tanjiro tensed up. His eyes trained on Kyojuro. The blue eyed slayer said nothing. “How about I introduce you to upper moon six?" The water hashira clenched his jaw. “This is Kyojuro. My sparring partner. I have to warn you he is very strong.” 

“Shut it! Don’t speak to him as if you were his friend!” Tanjiro snapped. His eyes held fury in them. Giyuu placed an arm on the boy’s chest. “Don’t let him get to you. We came here to kill them. Any emotions we may have towards them will stay that. Emotions. They don’t matter on the battlefield.” The boy looked at him shocked before understanding crossed his kind eyes.

Giyuu’s words were harsh and bitter. Even to him. Kyojuro looked at him. His eyes held a blankness that the water hashira wasn’t used to. It made his skin crawl. His vision became blurry as he tightened his grip on the nichirin blade. He glared at his ex-lover. Kyojuro's dead eyes brightened up. Making Giyuu feel sick to his stomach.

***

Lost a couple of pieces when

I carried it, carried it, carried it home

***

“I want you to finish me off Tomioka. I know this is a lot to ask but please. Take care of Senjuro and...kill Kyojuro.”

“Tanjiro, will you be able to handle one of them?” Giyuu asked. He knew he made a promise to Shinjuro before he died. But having Tanjiro deal with Akaza was suicide. He wasn’t going to let another person die on his watch. He'll let Tanjiro deal with Kyojuro while he takes on Akaza. “Yes, don’t worry about me Giyuu-san," Without any warning Tanjiro pointed his sword at Akaza. "I'll deal with him. You take on Ren-upper moon six."

Even Tanjiro couldn’t call the former flame hashira by his name. The pillar was shocked. He was going to take on Akaza. Did Tanjiro see any conflict in his face? Yet he nodded and ignored the tears that ran down his face. He will kill them and fulfill his promise of watching over Senjuro. That was the least he could do for Shinjuro. Even if it meant killing the man that promised him the world.

“Giyuu? That must be your name, how pretty! You must be the person Kyojuro talked so much about!” Giyuu ignored him and with a move of his hand, he attacked Kyojuro. Tanjiro took it as a signal to attack Akaza. Whatever else the demon said, Giyuu could care less. His mind on one sole goal. Kill them and reunite with the others. "Water breathing Third Form: Flowing Dance." 

***

I'm afraid of all I am

My mind feels like a foreign land

***

He couldn’t die here and he wouldn’t allow Tanjiro to die either. Shinazugawa would kick his ass if he allowed that to happen. A warm feeling came to his chest. Right, there was someone waiting for him. Even if that person was a brute most of the time. Shinazugawa showed how much he cared for Giyuu. When he collapsed from overworking. When Giyuu was swallowed by grief when the news reached him about Kyojuro. 

That albino had been there to catch him. He wasn't going to die here. Nor was he going to let Tanjiro, a kid who still had a life ahead of him, perish in this place. "Flame breathing first form: Unknowing Fire." 

"First Form: Water Surface Slash!" Blocking his attacks, the water pillar shoved any thoughts of Shinazugawa away from his head. "Let's stop this fighting Giyuu," Kyojuro finally spoke. The smile he had grown to love on his face. "I only want to speak to you." He ignored him. Tanjiro grunted as he blocked multiple attacks from Akaza. 

***

Silence ringing inside my head

Please, carry me, carry me, carry me home

***

The battle felt like it lasted forever. His blade hitting Kyojuro’s skin again and again. Slashing it and shedding blood. However the demon was quick to regenerate. But each time Giyuu attacked, the blonde would take the hit. When he went to throw an attack himself he wouldn't put his full power in it. 

Was he playing with Giyuu? Toying with him until he ran out of stamina? Why wasn't he fighting like he meant to kill him? Giyuu could fairly hear Tanjiro’s blade hit Akaza’s skin as the two went head on. In the blink of an eye, the boy Giyuu had grown to love as a little brother was thrown to the wall. “Tanjiro!” Blocking another attack, Giyuu stood in front of the younger boy. His body acting like a shield. Kyojuro didn’t even hesitate to launch at them along with Akaza.

***

I've spent all of the love I saved

We were always a losing game

***

Again, reality was shoved into his face. The man he loves is dead. He was no longer alive. This figure in front of him was an imposter. Because his lover was long gone!

“Water breathing, Eleventh Form: Dead Calm." It gave him a few seconds to compose himself and for Tanjiro to regain his breath. Biting his tongue, he stopped a whimper of pain to escape. While his eleventh form reflects most attacks, it can't block all of them. Especially if two powerful demons were attacking him. Taking the hits, he allows Tanjiro to get up.

This time they didn’t have a chance to attack as they played defense. Now Giyuu found himself clashing swords with his-no, not lover. Upper moon six. Tanjiro was fighting Akaza. Yet the demon’s attention was on Giyuu. “Of all the water hashira I have killed, no one had used that technique! Become a demon Giyuu! Join Kyojuro and I!” Kyojuro smiled at that. His sharp canines in full view of the jet. 

"Do it Giyuu! This power is amazing. Not only will you become stronger, but you can live forever! No longer be weak and defenseless!" Something in Giyuu snapped. That was all he felt before he managed to slash Kyojuro’s body. The demon with Kuojuro’s face looked shocked but he didn’t care. All he could see was red. He felt his body burn and everything became crystal clear to him. His stamina increased and the world seemed to be slowing down for a few seconds.

***

Small-town boy in a big arcade

I got addicted to a losing game

***

All five of his senses sharpened. He could hear and even see the movements each person did more clearly than before. Tanjiro looked at him with wide eyes before he grinned. Giyuu nodded his head in understanding. So this must be the mark everyone was talking about. 

The demon slayer mark.

“Why!? Why did you do this Kyojuro!? Did being in the demon slayer corps mean nothing to you?!” Another attack aimed at Kyojuro. Giyuu quickly lost count of how many attacks he used. Look at him. Letting his emotions get the best of him after he told Tanjiro not to do it. “Did Senjuro mean anything to you!?” One of the shoji doors flew open and a flash of white with pink dashed in. Giyuu didn’t pay any mind. The clash of his sword with Kyojuro’s kept him concentrated. 

“Did I mean anything to you!? Kanroji, Iguro, everyone was in pain! So why, why become a demon!?” A bright red sword clashed with his blue one. Forming an x. He was now face to face with the person he thought he would spend the rest of his life with. His vision was blurry. The water pillar was well aware that he was crying. He couldn't help it. After months of keeping all of this bottled up, he had to let them out.

***

Oh-oh-oh-oh, oh-oh-oh-oh

All I know, all I know

Loving you is a losing game

***

Kyojuro’s eyes were wide. Confusion swimming in them as he stared at Giyuu. “Don’t you get it Giyuu.” That voice, the one that made the blue eyed man feel safe, now did the opposite. “I grew stronger. Much stronger! Now I can protect you and Senjuro!” Glaring at him, Giyuu pushed his sword harder. Protect? Giyuu didn’t need any protection. He could do that himself. Senjuro, the young boy, only wanted his big brother back.

“How many humans have you killed?” He asked. There was no way Kyojuro would be this strong. He would've had to have eaten a bunch of humans before gaining this strength. How ironic. The humans Kyojuro swore to protect were now his prey. Using the water breathing second form, Giyuu avoided another attack.

“Why does that matter? Aren’t you happy to see me, my love?” No, he wasn’t, not like this. Giyuu would have rather seen him in a casket. At least then, he wouldn't be feeling this pain of betrayal. “Don’t call me that! You are not the man I loved.” 

***

How many pennies in the slot?

Giving us up didn't take a lot

***

The demon paused. His nichirin blade halting mid-way on one of his attacks. From the corner of his eye, Giyuu could make out the crumbling form of Akaza. Tanjiro was being tended by Mitsuri while Shinazugawa turned to face them. "Fourth Form: Striking Tide!"

Kyojuro didn't even try to block the attack. His eyes glossed over and empty. Giyuu landed a few feet away from him. His breath labored. "...No longer the man that you love?" His voice sounded broken. It belonged to a man who had just lost everything in a blink of an eye. His golden eyes glanced at the raven's hand. "You even took off the ring I gave you."

***

I saw the end 'fore it begun

Still I carried, I carried, I carry on

***

He had thrown it away. Giyuu had been in so much agony that even just looking at the ring made him have a breakdown. Locking eyes with the white haired man, Giyuu slightly nodded before the wind pillar silently sneaked up behind Kyojuro. 

Turning his attention back at the demon, Giyuu smiled. “You are no longer the man I had loved." Walking towards the shell shocked demon, he placed a gentle hand on his cheek. Maybe it was out of instinct but Kyojuro leaned in. “Because the man I love would never take this path. No matter how hard the situation is, he wouldn’t have taken this route even as a last resort.” Kyojuro steps closer and Shinazugawa does the same. “Giyuu, understand that I did it for you. For our future.” 

***

Oh-oh-oh-oh, oh-oh-oh-oh

All I know, all I know

Loving you is a losing game

Oh-oh-oh-oh, oh-oh-oh-oh

All I know, all I know

Loving you is a losing game

***

A cold hand was placed around his waist. Making his body touch the cold one of the demon. He resisted the urge to wrap himself in his embrace. It was hard to hold himself back. To just kiss him and forget all this pain. Still, he couldn't allow his strength to waver. If he did any of the things he wished, Giyuu will only regret it.

“...You killed people Kyo,” It hurts, using the nickname Giyuu called him. "Children, women, elderly. We received reports of villages being massacred in one night." This demon was no longer Kyojuro. His lover was long gone. “I did it for us. If I died I would have left all of you behind.” And that was what Giyuu would have been better off with. At least Kyojuro would have stayed human.

"What about the promise you made to your mother?" Kyojuro tensed up, his breath hitched. "Didn't you promise to protect the weak from the strong. To never use your gift for evil." Looking into his eyes, Giyuu leaned his head on the demon’s. He watched how Kyojuro slowly melted at the touch. Tears were not streaming down his pale face.

***

I don't need your games, game over

Get me off this rollercoaster

***

His guard was down. This should give Shinazugawa enough time to attack him and give Giyuu an opening to kill him. As if reading his mind, the wind hashira strikes. Piercing his blade into Kyojuro’s back. Golden eyes widened with shock and pain. And all Giyuu could do was cry with him.

Before the demon could even retaliate, Giyuu swung his sword and slashed his head off his shoulders. Closing his eyes, the blue eyed man turned away as the smell of ashes infiltrated his nose. "G-Giyuu, why?! Why did you-" He cut himself with a sob. Giyuu covered his mouth, shoulders shaking hard. Walking towards Tanjiro and Mitsuri, he ignored the calls for him from Kyojuro.

Shinazugawa was by his side, and instantly hugged Giyuu. The white haired man had been doing that a lot since the news of Kyojuro becoming a demon. Turning back the water Hashira said his last words to the man he had once loved. 

***

Oh-oh-oh-oh, oh-oh-oh-oh

All I know, all I know

Loving you is a losing game

***

“Loving you was a losing game.”

Kyojuro didn't say anything else. Silent tears dripped down his face and to the ground. Then he completely vanished. His sword and clothes were the only indicator that he had been there. 

"Are you alright?" Shinazugawa asked. His violet eyes scanning Giyuu’s face. "I'm fine. L-let's look for the others." With the wind pillar’s help Giyuu stood up. And without looking back all four of them ran out the room.

'Things will be better.' That was all Giyuu could say to himself as he once again entered battle.

***

Oh-oh-oh-oh, oh-oh-oh-oh

All I know, all I know

Loving you is a losing game

***

Chapter Text

I am not the only traveler

Who has not repaid his debt

I've been searching for a trail to follow again

Take me back to the night we met

****

"Would you do me the honor of going out with me?!"

The first time Giyuu had met the flame hashira was when he was just sixteen and the other fifteen. Back then both boys had been rank kanoe. Kyojuro was bright. With a voice full of warmth and joy. Golden eyes that spoke levels of justice. And who would forget his fighting spirit? One that even made Giyuu feel motivated to keep going. Their first meeting wasn't something cliche where they locked eyes and instantly felt a connection.

No, they had been partnered up for a mission. A demon had been terrorizing a village to the south. Kids and women went missing and no one knew who or what was causing it. The blonde did his best to make the blue eyed slayer speak. Asking questions which Giyuu answered with a yes or no. Commenting on the weather, or simply asking what he liked to do. Small stuff that held no meaning. Giyuu ignored him for most of the time. He had no plans in getting close to Kyojuro. 

He had done that with Sabito, and his dear friend ended up dead. He was a bad luck charm. One that had death near him, just not for the water user. But for the people who got close to him. So Giyuu did his best to make the blonde lose interest in him. It worked for a while. As they did their week-long mission, the flame user didn't bother making small talk.

It...bothered Giyuu for a bit. Not wanting to admit that the boy's voice brought a sense of comfort to him, the raven head just ignored the pain in his chest. 

Then the unthinkable happened. On their second to last night of the mission, Giyuu had one of his episodes. They didn't happen often. He learned how to control them after having his first mission. The nightmare had been one of the worst yet, Tsutako and Sabito...both dead and yet he couldn’t even lift a finger to help them. They called for his help. To help them. Save them from the demon. 

Giyuu had jolted up. His mind muddled and tears running down his face. Kyojuro had shaken him, his golden eyes filled to the brim with worry. Before the water user could tell him that everything was fine and to go back to sleep, Kyojuro hugged him. For the first time since Sabito's death...he felt warm and oh so very safe. The wall he had carefully built and the chains of iron he used to close his heart were instantly taken down.

"It's alright, I got you. Let it all out." 

That was all he needed for the waterworks to begin. A sob, broken and utterly pathetic, leaves his lips. He hugs Kyojuro back. Fingers digging into the yukata he had changed to. 

Kyojuro had entered and seen his soul that night. He had seen how utterly broken Giyuu was and yet he didn't offer any sympathy or pity that many did. He wasn't treating Giyuu as if he was made out of glass. Instead he embraced him, broken pieces and all.

And Giyuu let him.

_____

And then I tell myself 

What the hell I'm supposed to do

***

"What would you do when all demons are exterminated?"

After that night, Giyuu and Kyojuro became closer. Not necessarily friends. Just frequent companions in demon slaying. Little by little Giyuu spoke back to him and answered questions Kyojuro had. They were now seventeen and sixteen, a year had passed and by now Giyuu might have considered Kyojuro a special person to him. Not a friend though. He wouldn't dare call the blonde a friend.

If he did, death would take him too.

When they weren't demon hunting, they would be eating together and making small talk. Sometimes Kyojuro would invite him for night walks around the Rengoku estate. Giyuu had been reluctant about stepping foot in there. Not wanting to be a bother to the family. However Kyojuro wasn't having any of it. With some persistence and a promise of salmon, he was easily convinced.

Meeting Senjuro had been nostalgic in a way. The small boy reminds Giyuu of his past self. Back before he knew of the existence of demons. Unexpectedly, he came to love Senjuro as a younger brother. The boy had a gentle aura. He looked like a mini version of Kyojuro but so very different. He was a little shy, and he hardly spoke to strangers. But he came around when Giyuu came with Kyojuro for a visit.

That day he had brought a book, one that he remembered Senjuro mentioned. The boy's golden eyes lightened up when Giyuu showed it to him. And that smile he gave the blue eyed boy made him happy.

He was glad to bring joy to someone else.

_____

And then I tell myself 

Not to ride along with you

***

"When this is all over, let's get a house together. We can bring Senjuro with us, and live the rest of our lives together."

Another year passed and Giyuu became a hashira. He wasn't worthy of the title. He wasn't as talented as the others. Kyojuro thought otherwise.

"Giyuu," His warm voice pulled him out of his thoughts. Rough and gentle hands cradled his face, making him face Kyojuro. Both were in the water pillar estate. One that his old master used to live in. "You're worthy of the position. Oyakata-sama wouldn't choose you if that wasn't the case." A thumb rubs his cheek, Giyuu leans into the warmth.

He wasn't sure if it was the summer heat or the fact that both were close, but he felt warm. "I can see your strength Giyuu. It comes in many forms, not just physical. You kept going even after losing people. You kept fighting and you still do." 

Giyuu never told him about Sabito or Tsutako. Yet the flame user didn't need to know when he could just read Giyuu like a book. "It may take a while for you to realize that you are worthy. And even if you doubt yourself, I will always be here to remind you of your worth." 

His chest tightened at the words. Not like when he thought of his sister. It wasn't pain he felt. He didn't have words to express how this feeling was so different. One day, he will tell him about the loss of the two people he held dearly to heart. Kyojuro had opened up about his mother, and Giyuu wanted to do the same. But not now. One day he will.

Maybe Kyojuro was more than a friend.

_____

I had all and then most of you

Some and now none of you

***

"You should visit the Rengoku estate soon. Senjuro says he misses you."

"Oh, is that so? Or is it that you just want me to stop by?" 

"Hahaha! You caught me!"

He was nineteen and Kyojuro was eighteen when they had their first kiss. It wasn't one that was planned or one that Giyuu expected. It came out of nowhere during a calm night when the stars would shine bright and the smell of wisteria surrounded them. That night Kyojuro had just become a hashira. His father having retired and after Kyojuro defeated a lower moon. 

But that wasn't why the water hashira found himself pinned to the wall of his estate. Kyojuro’s lips on his and his mind foggy. Shinazugawa had been speaking to Giyuu. His body close to his. He didn't mind as it hadn't been the first time the albino did that. To Giyuu it was a way to show how close they were. However, Kyojuro had gone quiet when Shinazugawa had brushed a stray hair out of the raven's face. And when Shinazugawa had challenged the blonde, Kyojuro had smiled and accepted it. Only both men gave each other a death stare.

Giyuu wanted to ask Kyojuro what was that all about when they left the meeting. So he invited the flame hashira to the estate to speak, and they did. It wasn't until Kyojuro was about to leave that Giyuu asked him.

Now here he was, hands tangled in the bright blonde hair of the man he had been afraid to call friend for two years. Of the man he had found himself falling for little by little. Even if he tried to shut his feelings out. He should have pushed him away. Told him to keep his distance. 

But he couldn't. 

Closing his eyes, Giyuu gave into his selfish desires. He could feel how Kyojuro smiled and deepened the kiss. His hands resting on the older male's hips to pull him closer. For once, Giyuu was happy he didn't have staff. He wouldn't want them to walk in on the two of them.

Pulling away slightly, blue eyes lock with golden ones. "Would you do me the honor of going out with me?" Asked Kyojuro in a soft voice. His cheeks tinted red all the way to his neck. The color red really suits the blonde. Instead of answering verbally, Giyuu pulled him into another kiss, "Does that answer your question?" 

Kyojuro grins, nods, and pulls him back in. That night the flame user stayed over. Both busy with keeping each other in their arms.

_____

I had all and then most of you

Some and now none of you

***

"One day, we will go to Tokyo and explore the city. I heard that the nights there are always bright."

They didn't have any labels for their relationship. Kyojuro never asked and Giyuu didn't find the need to name their relationship. They were lovers and that was it. Everything was going well. The reaper who always hung above his shoulders had left and he couldn't be happier.

Each moment with Kyojuro was filled with love, warmth, and so much passion. They were open with each other and never did they get into any fights. Sure there were times Kyojuro would be a little overprotective when Giyuu was around Shinazugawa. But he shrugged it off as him not wanting to get jumped by the wind pillar like he had months ago.

Their real fight, one that left Giyuu in tears and Kyojuro with a bitter taste, had been when it was announced that the water hashira had been protecting Tanjiro and his demon sister. That night, Giyuu felt cold. His flame and sun were not there with him and the water estate never felt so void of emotions. 

Shinazugawa had been the one to pull him out of his depressed state after three days of not talking with Kyojuro. The albino didn't question him nor did he force him to talk. Only took him by the hand and walked around a nearby town together. It had done him well. His mind was free of his dark thoughts for the day and it wasn't bad. It had been a while since he had hung out with any of his friends.

"You should talk to Rengoku." That had been the first time Shinazugawa mentioned the flame hashira in their outing. Giyuu halted, his blue eyes avoided purple ones. "Why…?"

"Because it's clear both of you are miserable," he stated. "Listen Tomioka, you're a dear...friend of mine. I hate to see you like this. I can tell you haven't slept properly in days and soon enough it'll start affecting you."

That was true. Giyuu hadn't realized how dependent he had become on Kyojuro. There were nights when both would sleep in together. Arms around their bodies and provide each other comfort. Yet that had stopped after their fight. "Rengoku also feels like shit. Not to mention that guy really loves you Tomioka. Everyone can see that. I may not know how your fight went but if you keep avoiding each other, it'll only hurt you in the end." 

Then, Shinazugawa pulled him into a hug. Giyuu stiffened, not being used to others hugging him unless it was his lover. "Don't hurt yourself...Giyuu."

After that, Giyuu finally spoke to Kyojuro who had the same idea as both stared at each other. Eyes wide with surprise. The blonde had flowers in his hand. A small grin on his face. 

The next day he found himself in Kyojuro’s arms.

_____

Take me back to the night we met

I don't know what I'm supposed to do

***

"I'm sorry for yelling at you...I trust you love."

Grasping the pillow, Giyuu moaned. Every thrust, kiss, and mark, Kyojuro made sure he delivered them with love. This wasn't the first time they did it. And even so the flame pillar always treated his body carefully. He was in bliss. His body pressed against Kyojuro’s. Both kissing each other as if it were the last time they would be together. And in a way it was true.

Kyojuro has a mission soon. One that will probably take him a while.

Tangling his hands on the blonde hair of his lover’s, Giyuu looks at him. Kyojuro had his lips a little open, small gasps escaping them. Sweat rolled down his body as he thrusted in again. Giyuu groans, burying his face on Kyojuro’s neck he leaves small hickeys. The blonde groans, his pace quickening. 

If he could, Giyuu would stay in his embrace. 

_____

Haunted by the ghost of you

Oh, take me back to the night we met

***

"When I come back, let's go and visit that waterfall by Oyakata-sama's house."

Blood ran down his forehead. His eye permanently shut and Kyojuro is sure he has a few broken ribs. No, he definitely had broken ribs. Even so, he doesn't let that stop him. Not when those kids and the passengers are in harm's way. Lifting his nichirin blade, the flame hashira prepared for one last attack.

He wasn't going to come back alive from this. That much was obvious. There was no chance he would be able to defeat an upper moon. However, he had to keep him distracted until the sun rose. Kyojuro wasn't going to allow the kids Giyuu loves so much to die here. Akaza made it clear he was here to kill Tanjiro. He didn't care who got in his way.

"C'mon Kyojuro! Become a demon. You and I would be unstoppable!" Those haunting yellow eyes stare at his figure. The kanji in them made Kyojuro swallow his spit and blood. "I refuse. I will not stand at the same level as you."

He promised that to his mother and to Giyuu. Even if he won't come back alive he will keep his promise to protect humans. His mother, a wonderful woman, would have loved Giyuu. Smiling bitterly, he prepared himself. 'I'm sorry love. I guess we'll never be able to visit that waterfall with Senjuro.' 

"Ninth Form: Rengoku!" 

Tanjiro cried out his name. The boar kid was also yelling. Their cries pierce his heart. Tears formed in his eyes. He'll be leaving them soon. No longer be there to hold Giyuu’s hand, hug him, kiss him. He was glad he was able to spend one last night with his love. And was eternally grateful Shinazugawa pushed him to apologize to the blue eyed slayer. 

Even if he only did it for Giyuu’s sake.

Flames covered both slayer and demon. His blade cut through Akaza. Yet he only laughed. He felt the final blow before he even noticed it, Tanjiro cried once again and Kyojuro felt blood come out of his mouth. This was it, he was going to die here. Akaza's arm had penetrated his stomach. Blood ran down his body.

"What a pity. You could still take my offer," the demon chuckles. "No...I won't. Even if it's the death of me." Kyojuro glared. He could see the sun's rays over the mountain. He didn't want his last moment to be spent talking to a demon. But if it kept him distracted then so be it. "Really? Even if you have to leave your family and lover behind." 

His gut twisted. "I am no fool, Kyojuro. That determination you show. It doesn't only come from wanting to protect weaklings." Akaza leans in, his golden eyes wide with glee. "You have someone don't you? It's so obvious from the way you seem to rub that blue ring on your finger before battle says it all." 

The blue ring had been a gift from Giyuu. One he had given to him after Kyojuro gave him a red one. It was a promise ring. It represented their love for each other. All the promises they made together for the future, their years together. Kyojuro always had it with him. It made him feel close to Giyuu.

"Even if I have to leave my love behind, I will never betray him!" Kyojuro was already breaking a promise to live. But turning into a demon? That was not only turning his back to Oyakata-sama, but also throwing everything he built with Giyuu away. He wasn't going to do it, not to them. Especially not when he had to make sure to accomplish his mother's dying wish. Akaza only grins. "Then that means...you will be happy if they suffer. If that love of yours cries for you just because you were selfish."

He pushes his hand deeper. Kyojuro grunts in pain. "Guess you'll die a traitor." 

"W-What…?" 

Akaza laughed at him. It sounded so cold and mocking. "Promises are meant to be broken. Yet you are not only breaking one but all! And among them all you must have promised to protect them. Now you'll never be able to do that!" 

No, Akaza was wrong. He did promise Giyuu to never leave his side. To be there for him. After learning about Sabito and Tsutako, he promised to be by his side. Yet...as he looked into Akaza's eyes, Kyojuro realized that he in fact would be leaving them behind. Giyuu had always been afraid of the grim reaper that followed him. Was Kyojuro going to be another distant memory?

All at once the pain he suffered came to him. Tanjiro's voice no longer reached his ears. Standing behind Akaza was his mother. Her form glowing as she stared at them. Her ruby eyes shone with worry. To her left was a boy around Senjuro’s age. Peach hair flowing in the wind and a fox mask hanging from his neck. Purple eyes glared at Kyojuro. As if daring him to side with Akaza.

Yet, the one that caught him by surprise was the women standing to the right of his mother. Black hair in a braid and familiar blue eyes. A shade he loves so dearly. She looked exactly like Giyuu. The woman had the same expression as his mother. A hand covering her mouth. 

"Well? Are you going to leave them defenseless? Or will you become stronger so you can be there for them?" 

The boy glares harder and aggressively shakes his head. With shaky breaths, Kyojuro lets his nichirin blade fall. 

_____

When the night was full of terrors

And your eyes filled with tears 

***

"I love you."

"CAW, CAW, RENGOKU KYOJURO HAS BETRAYED US. HE HAS BEEN WILLINGLY TURNED INTO A DEMON BY AN UPPER RANK DEMON!"

The glass plate slipped out of his fingers and crashed to the floor. Senjuro looked at the crow flying over their heads. Golden eyes wide with shock. Giyuu looked down at the plate he dropped. Blue eyes wavering. He could hear a pair of footsteps coming their way. It must be Shinjuro. 

Giyuu had come to visit Senjuro as they both waited for Kyojuro. However...they didn't expect this news. A pair of hands grabbed him. It was then that he realized he had fallen to his knees. Senjuro sobbed as he shook his head. Mumbling no, no, no over and over again. 

Looking up, he meets Shinjuro's eyes. Which only makes the pain in his chest worse. A broken sob rings through the engawa they were all in. For a moment, Giyuu doesn't register that it came from him until two small arms hug him. Then he finally breaks into tears.

_____

When you had not touch me yet

Oh, take me back to the night we met

***

"Rengoku Shinjuro will pay for the betrayal of Rengoku Kyojuro. Do you have any last requests?" 

Ubuyashiki's voice filled the tense silence. All the hashiras were present. Some of them would look at Shinjuro and Senjuro with pity. Others like Iguro and Kanroji kept their gaze down. Senjuro was next to Giyuu, his face buried in the crook of the water user's neck. The small boy hadn't spoken since they were summoned for an emergency meeting. 

Shinazugawa squeezed his shoulder. Purple eyes focused on the child in his arms. "Yes," Shinjuro turned to face Giyuu, eyes downcast. “I want you to finish me off Tomioka. I know this is a lot to ask but please. Take care of Senjuro and...kill Kyojuro.”

Senjuro flinched but didn't say anything. The master nodded his head. Giyuu clenched his jaw at the idea. He didn't want to have Shinjuro's blood on his hands. He didn't want to take Senjuro’s remaining family. Blue locks with gold and he already knows that he lost the battle. Closing his eyes he nods. Shinjuro sighs, then turns back to Ubuyashiki.

"Very well. The execution will take place here in two hours. In the meantime, have some time for yourself." That was all he said before taking his leave. Giyuu didn't wait for the others to ask questions or to come and pity him. Instead, he gathered Senjuro in his arms and walked towards Shinjuro. Patting the older man's shoulder, he tilted his head to where the chrysanthemum flower bed was located. Shinjuro nods and stands up. Still his eyes avoid looking at anyone. 

Giyuu also avoided eye contact. Solely focusing on the boy in his arms. Shinazugawa looked at him. His eyes said he wanted to approach him but didn't. Walking away from them. Far enough to where the chrysanthemum bed was and where a large tree covered them from prying eyes. Finally, Shinjuro allowed himself to cry. Senjuro’s body shook. Tears wetting Giyuu’s haroi. 

Sitting down, all three allowed themselves to be vulnerable. At some point Senjuro went to his father's arms. Together they spent the little time left with each other. Glancing at the red ring around his ring finger, bile rises up his throat but he swallows it back. It felt tight even if it was the perfect size.

It was their promise ring.

"I promise to be by your side Giyuu. No matter what. I love you. I love you so much that I wish to one day make you my husband."

He mentally scoffs at the memory. How stupid of him. To think that the grim reaper had finally left him alone. He was an idiot. He shouldn't have gotten close to Kyojuro. He shouldn't have allowed him to see his broken self. He shouldn't have been so selfish.

Loving him was the best thing that ever happened to Giyuu. He brought happiness to his life. He brought light and so much warmth. Giyuu was a moth attracted to the light known as Kyojuro and in the end he got burned. Curse him and his stupid heart. His fucking idiotic heart. He would never admit it out loud, but he wished Kyojuro had died.

His body would have come back to him in a casket, and it would have hurt. But that was better than what they were going through as of now. Senjuro wouldn't lose the only family he had left if Kyojuro hadn't turned into a demon. 

Someone clears their throat from behind the tree. "The two hours are up...Oyakata-sama has requested everyone to gather in the room located at the end of the estate." The execution room. Shinazugawa, the one to have cleared his throat, didn't want to call it that. No one did. Especially not Giyuu who had been there only once back when he was eighteen. When he had just become a hashira. 

"...Thank you Shinazugawa. We will be there soon," Giyuu answered. Footsteps are heard and soon Senjuro is back in his arms. This time Giyuu had wrapped the young boy in his mismatched haroi. Shinjuro steps next to him and brings him into a hug, "Thank you...and I'm sorry...take care of my little boy."

Tears built in his eyes but Giyuu refused to let them out. Not now. Not when everyone could see them. He wouldn't allow himself to open up to another person. Never again. Kyojuro had seen his true self and became a part of him. Now he had been ripped away violently from his side. 

Nodding, as he didn't trust his voice, the blue eyed man smiled at the older man. This was it. Senjuro would be under his care and Giyuu would continue to hunt demons down.

And he will make sure to kill Kyojuro. 

_____

I had all and then most of you

Some and now none of you

***

"When we have our own place, let's take the Kamado siblings under our wing." 

"Sure love, we'll take care of them as if they were our own kin."

The room was cold. Ubuyashiki sat to the side, his wife next to him. Shinjuro was on his knees, a blade in his hands. Senjuro, along with the master's children, were taken away from the estate and to the Butterfly mansion. Where Aoi was watching over them.

To the left side were Shinazugawa, Himejima, Uzui, and Muichiro. To the right were Kanroji, Iguro, and Shinobu. All had their eyes on him and his nichirin blade. Giyuu hadn't taken it out of its sheath...not yet. Taking in a shaky breath, the water hashira slowly walks up to Shinjuro, says a small prayer and nods to let Ubuyashiki know he is ready. 

Even if the process of Shinjuro slicing his own belly is fast, somehow it feels slow. Kanroji had tears in her eyes. Her hands shook in her lap yet she refused to look away. Ignoring the shake in his hands, Giyuu un-sheaths his blade. The sound of it made Uzui flinch.

Locking eyes with Shinjuro one last time, he brings his nichirin blade down

_____

Take me back to the night we met 

I don't know what I'm supposed to do 

***

"I love you, Kyojuro."

Lowering the chrysanthemum flowers to Shinjuro's and Ruka's grave, Senjuro gives a small prayer. It had been two months since his brother's betrayal and his father's death. He hadn't been himself lately. Always oversleeping, not cleaning around, and he had abandoned his sword training. Giyuu didn't complain about it. Only reminded him to eat and to get enough rest.

Tanjiro and his friends had come to visit them every day or when they didn't have missions. At times the wind pillar would show up and talk to Giyuu. Senjuro had been relieved when he found out Shinazugawa was the one to pull the raven head out of his depressive mind. Much like how Tanjiro was there for him, Shinazugawa was there for Giyuu.

Glancing to the side, he saw both wind and water hashiras talking. Senjuro smiled at the sight. Even if he was young he knew what that look in Shinazugawa's eyes meant. It was the same look Kyojuro would give Giyuu.

Love.

Shinazugawa was in love with Giyuu.

Senjuro only hoped that one day, Giyuu would open his heart again. For now, both needed time to heal the wound in their hearts.

______

Haunted by the ghost of you 

Take me back to the night we met 

***

"Rengoku Giyuu has a nice ring to it, don't you think love?"

Kyojuro stared at Giyuu’s back. Silent tears running down his face. His mouth had disintegrated yet his eyes remained as he watched how Shinazugawa hugged the water pillar. Mitsuri was checking Tanjiro who was bloodied and bruised. 

It finally hit him. What had he been doing? Why had he chosen to become a demon when he knew Giyuu would have been shattered? He was an idiot. A complete and utter fool.

It hadn't fully registered until he saw the promise ring off Giyuu’s finger and how his eyes would soften when he looked at Shinazugawa. 

Kyojuro had lost the moment he decided to drink Akaza's blood.

Closing his eyes, he let the rest of his body turn to ash with one last thought. 

Loving each other was a losing game.

Chapter Text

Maybe it's the way you say my name

Maybe it's the way you play your game

***

"One...two...three! Smile!"

Sanemi smiled, a hand on top of Senjuro’s head. Giyuu leaned on his shoulder while bringing the three remaining Ubuyashiki kids near them. They all held their breath waiting for their signal then they all cheered when the photographer gave them a thumbs up. The picture was already taken. Giyuu laughed with the four kids surrounding him. One boy with black hair that resembled Oyakata-sama and two girls with white hair. Senjuro was with them the second the picture was taken. 

After the final battle the remaining slayers all got together one last time before going their own way. The Ubuyashiki kids had decided to stay with Giyuu, who had been looking after them as if they were his kids. Senjuro also stayed with the jet, at some point he even started calling Giyuu 'older brother'. 

The same was with the Ubuyashiki kids. Giyuu glanced at him, an adorable grin on his face. Sanemi smiled, helping the raven head stand up from his crouched position. "Let's all go talk to the others. I heard Tanjiro and his friends will go back home. We should say goodbye," the blue eyed man suggested. 

Senjuro nodded. Golden eyes once again bright with life. Pulling the other children with him, they all went to where Tanjiro and Nezuko were. Giyuu chuckled at the sight. "I want to thank you...Sanemi."

"What for?" He tilted his head to the side. All the albino had done was help Giyuu get back on his feet after the final battle. Plus he wasn't the only one. The Kamado kids did the same. Nezuko fixed his clothes and helped Senjuro keep the Rengoku and Water Pillar estate clean for him. Tanjiro did a few repairs here and there with the help of Sanemi.

After killing Muzan, they all just wanted to have a clean start. That also meant helping Giyuu let go of Kyojuro. Sanemi wasn't an idiot. He knew Giyuu still held the blonde close to his heart. Even after killing him he had seen that broken look in his eyes. A look he no longer wanted to see.

Wrapping an arm around Giyuu, he simply brings him closer. "No need to thank me. I wasn't the only one. Everyone wanted to help." Before they all fought Muzan, Mitsuri had spoken up about how she wanted to make Giyuu forget about Kyojuro. At least for a few minutes. As much as Giyuu pretended to be fine, everyone could tell it wasn't the truth.

It was hard. To hear the man he loves cry every night. Screaming in agony as he has a mental breakdown. Walking alone, an empty look in his eyes. Giyuu had been nothing more but a shell of the once calm yet soft person Sanemi knew. All because Kyojuro came into his life, gave him love, then left.

"I know. Still, you have been there from the start and for that I want to thank you. You helped me stay sane and even stayed with me and Senjuro when you had no obligation. You became our pillar. Thank you for being my friend Sanemi." 

Ignoring the painful tug in his heart at the word friend, Sanemi pulled Giyuu into a hug. Burying his hand in the now short black hair he allowed himself to be a little selfish. The sapphire eyed man stiffened but returned his hug as best as he could. He still had difficulty using one arm as his right arm had been chopped off by Muzan.

It hurts. It had always hurt. Every single time he saw Giyuu with Kyojuro it hurt him. Yet, like the fool he was, he kept close to the ocean knowing full well that the sun was the owner. In a way, Sanemi did try his best to keep his distance. To try and move on from his one sided love.

Training with Obanai helped. The Serpent hashira kept his mind occupied with other things. But now his friend is gone. Taken away from him by Muzan. At least he died with Mitsuri in his arms. Knowing that the girl he loved returned his feelings. Genya, his only remaining family, had also been a good way to distance himself from Giyuu.

However, it wasn't in the way many expected. Sanemi had been an ass to him. Going as far as to almost plug out his eyes so he would leave the corps. Yet here he was. His brother gone at the hands of Upper Moon One. Sanemi had no one left. No one that wasn't Giyuu.

Faith really had a messed up way of treating him. Still, he didn't want to leave the man he loves all on his own. Giyuu had a child to take care of and two estates under his name. One which he didn't treat as a home. The other he couldn't even set foot in without crying. Pushing his emotions to the side, he helped him.

He took care of Senjuro. All the things he couldn't do for Genya, all the things he wished he could do with Genya, Sanemi did with Senjuro. Tanjiro lent a hand in fixing anything from both estates and Nezuko helped Senjuro with the clean up. Slowly Giyuu started to get out of his shell.

He started going out more, talking more. He even accepted Mitsuri's offer to go eat with them. Something he only did when Kyojuro would go too. Sanemi's love for him still burned bright, and it had started to burn him from the inside. He didn't show it though. Giyuu needed to heal first. And it wasn't like Sanemi was about to risk his friendship with him just because he couldn't control his damn heart.

"Are you going back to the water estate or…?" Sanemi asked. The man in his arms hummed, "I think...I think I want to go back to the Rengoku estate." Surprised, the albino pulls away. Purple eyes filled with confusion and worry. "Are you sure? If you don't feel ready, don't push yourself." 

Shaking his head, Giyuu gives him a sad smile. "It's fine...I don't want to keep Senjuro from his home. I know he wants to go back but hasn't asked me because of everything." Pulling away, they both look at the four kids under their care. They were laughing, a carefree look on their faces. "But I was wondering if you would come with us." 

"Giyuu, wherever you go, I will go too. You're my...friend. And we promised to take care of the kids anyway. Let's start by giving them a loving home. One where they can be kids and enjoy life." 

The smile he received was one that Sanemi wanted to keep safe for the rest of his life.

_____

But it's so good, I've never known anybody like you

But it's so good, I've never dreamed of nobody like you

***

The first time he saw Giyuu was when both were kanoto rank slayers. They didn't interact as they, along with five other slayers, had been partnered up for a mission. Sanemi couldn't help but be captivated by the dark haired man. The way he carried himself with elegance and grace. 

Giyuu never talked unless spoken to. He didn't make any unnecessary movements and always put everyone's safety before his own. He was calm as the ocean. Mysterious and deep. The way he fought also made it clear he never hesitated to get the job done. The movements he used were like water. Calm and collected but dangerous when it lost control. 

No wonder he used water breathing. It was the perfect technique for him.

Not thinking twice, he approached him. Sanemi had no plan in mind other than to get to know this person. To see if he could learn the mysteries of the ocean or be another man that got enchanted and never returned.

It was...difficult, to say the least. Giyuu wasn't good at keeping small talk and he definitely sucked at starting one. But the albino wasn't someone who gave up easily. So, instead of pushing him to talk, he invited Giyuu to eat with him after they finished their missions. 

And as expected, he was turned down.

Sanemi tried a few more times with the help of his then friend Masachika. Thankfully, both boys managed to get Giyuu to eat with them. If Sanemi had to guess, that was where everything began.

They didn't talk a lot. And when they wrote letters it wasn't frequent. Guess that's why he never questioned why he was so curious about Giyuu. Mostly because Sanemi couldn't write without Masachika's or his crow's help. It wasn't something he would admit but, with the way he lives, Sanemi had no time to learn how to write. They did see each other on missions and they ate together. Sometimes, if Sanemi was able to convince him, they would walk around villages.

Conversations between them were soft. Sometimes there would be laughter, others just calm silence. Sanemi enjoyed his time with Giyuu. It made him feel light. As if the heavy load he had on his shoulders never existed. Masachika would tease him about having a crush on Giyuu. Something he would deny for years to come.

He didn't like Giyuu in that way. They were just friends. Good friends who hung out, ate together, walked around during the day, and just spoke about their days. That was what he told himself every time his heart would skip a beat when Giyuu accidentally brushed his hand with Sanemi's. He would repeat it like a verse when Giyuu laid his head on his shoulder as he slept away.

He managed to convince himself for around a year. Then, Giyuu turned sixteen and everything, his peaceful world with his ocean, came to a stop. He remembered Masachika teasing him about making Giyuu blush in one of their letters. Sanemi, confused, only furrowed his eyebrows. He hadn't written any letters recently as his crow had been busy delivering new missions. 

"What letter?" He asked.

"You didn't send him a letter? One that had a blue forget me not tied to it?" Sanemi shook his head. He had never sent Giyuu any letter this week, especially not one with flowers. 

"Huh, then I wonder who it was. If I had to guess, maybe it's someone interested in Tomioka." 

Bitter. That is what Sanemi felt after his conversation with Masachika. Who had sent Giyuu a letter with flowers? Just as quickly as the thought came it also went away. It wasn't his business. If Giyuu wanted to have a lover then let him. Who was he to intervene in his love life? 

Yet that same bitterness crawled back when Giyuu and him were eating in one of their restaurants. It was near a village they had saved from a demon who ate kids. The owners wanted to thank them by giving them a free meal to which they agreed to.

Just as Sanemi was telling Giyuu about his recent mission a female crow, one that the albino had never seen before, came flying in and landed on the jet's shoulder. 

"Caw! Letter for Tomioka Giyuu!" Without asking any questions, the blue eyed beauty gave a gentle pet to the crow before taking the letter attached to its leg. Giving the bird a small bite of food, Giyuu mumbled something under his breath. Then the bird flew away. Not wanting to impose, Sanemi stayed quiet and watched his friend read the letter.

Little by little, Giyuu’s pale skin turned scarlet red. Sanemi felt himself blush. The color red did go well with Giyuu. That he knew from the moment he laid eyes on the mismatched haori on the boy's shoulders. 

"Lover?" He found himself asking after gazing at the jet for a few more minutes. Trying to take a mental picture of his cute red face. Giyuu shakes his head. A small, barely noticeable smile on his face. "No...just someone I have gotten close to." He didn't offer any more information aside from that. And Sanemi didn't ask.

Bitter and something else swirls in his chest. What the hell was that feeling? Was he sick? Maybe he should go to the butterfly mansion and get checked out. Making up his mind, Sanemi hums and takes another bite of his food. Even if his stomach feels upset.

He was going to get checked out and then ask Giyuu who this someone was.

_____

And I've heard of a love that comes once in a lifetime

And I'm pretty sure that you are that love of mine

***

"Is this how it's supposed to look like oniichan?" asked Kanata. Her small hands holding a somewhat perfect onigiri. Grining, Sanemi nods and pats her head gently. "Yep, just like that. See, I told you you would get better at making them." The little girl giggled. The small pony tail that Giyuu made bounced with her shoulders. 

"Yay! Now I can help Sen-chan make snacks." Placing the onigiri back on the plate, she begins making another one. It was a calm afternoon. One where the four kids, Giyuu, and Sanemi all spent time at the Rengoku estate. At first, he had been wary considering how stepping foot inside the house almost made Giyuu have a panic attack. 

However, it had been over a month and Giyuu had been doing well on his own. Senjuro helped him enter deeper into the house and little by little the blue eyed man would do it himself. The only room he never entered was Kyojuro’s room. That door stayed shut and locked. 

The only person who stepped in there was Senjuro and that was only to clean the dust that the empty room collected. Shinjuro's room also stayed locked with the younger blonde going in to clean and quickly locking it up. Sanemi didn't point it out and allowed Giyuu to go at his own pace.

Lifting the lid off the pot, he stirred the curry before taking a small taste. Kanata hummed a small song under her breath, four more onigiri on the plate next to her. The sound of chatting entered his ears. Senjuro’s and Kuina's soft voices could be heard from the garden. The twelve year old was probably teaching the five year old girl how to water the plants.

Kiriya and Giyuu were at the town the Rengoku family protected from the demon's. Now they just helped around since they no longer had to patrol the night. Having run out of rice for the onigiri, Giyuu offered to go and Kiriya wanted to tag along. 

Wanting for the younger boy to have a full experience in walking around town, Giyuu agreed. Sanemi stayed back to watch over the kids. And he also promised to teach Kanata how to make onigiri.

"Um...Nemi-oniichan, can I ask you something?" The little girl looked at him. Her violet eyes reminded him of how Oyakata-sama would look at them when having a one on one. "Sure kid, you can ask me anything." 

Placing the half finished onigiri on the plate, the little girl placed her hands on her lap and sat straight. Those simple actions made him sit straight as well. The way the air changed around her reminded him of Amane. Elegance and grace. That was how the Ubuyashiki family carried themselves. Sometimes he would forget how these children were raised to grow up way too fast.

"Do you...like Giyuu-oniichan?" 

Sanemi felt his throat dry. She couldn’t mean it as in...no. Had Sanemi been too obvious of his feelings for Giyuu? No, that wasn’t possible. For years the albino had made sure to make their interactions seem friendly. No one had caught on to it. Unless it had been Shinobu who was too sharp for her own good or Mitsuri. She was the love hashira for a reason.

But they would never tell anyone. Mitsuri didn't want to ruin the friendship Sanemi had with Giyuu or Kyojuro’s and Giyuu’s relationship. Shinobu cared for Giyuu even if she would never admit it. And both women never spoke to the Ubuyashiki kids anyway. So could it really be that Sanemi was obvious?

"Yeah, I mean, Giyuu is my friend. We have known each other for years." Kanata pouts, yet the refined air still surrounds her. "You know what I mean, Sanemi." Oh, she used his full name. Yep, she definitely took over her parents. "Do you love Giyuu?" 

How could it be that a five year old was more sharp than anyone he had ever met? The twist and pull of his gut came back. The accelerated heartbeat, dry throat, sweaty hands, and hot face hit him all at once. It only took a five year old to break down the chains he had so carefully made. Chains he used to shut down his love for the ocean.

The kitchen went silent. Kanata kept her gaze on him. Sanemi held her stare for a few seconds, then looked away. "...Yes," he whispered. "I love him. I always have since the first day we met." 

His heart knew back then that Giyuu was the one it wanted. But Sanemi had refused to see it that way. Afraid that his friendship would be ruined. Afraid that he would never be loved because of who he was. He wasn't like Kyojuro. He didn't make others smile with just his presence. 

He didn't make others feel safe with just a smile. He wasn't charming like him. He sucked at making small talk or even being friendly. Sanemi wasn't the sun. Bright and warm for everyone. He was only the wind that accompanied the moon during the night. A wind that blew in all directions but was a mess most of the time.

"I love Giyuu. But I won't act on my feelings. He needs a friend more than a lover anyways." Even if it hurt Sanemi, it was better than hurting Giyuu. Kanata sighs, a small smile on her lips. “I won’t say anything but...please don’t hurt yourself. Giyuu-nii wouldn’t want that.” That was the end of their discussion. Both didn’t mention anything further and continued to make onigiris.

_____

'Cause I'm in a field of dandelions

Wishing on every one that you'd be mine, mine

***

It was one of those rare days that both Sanemi and Giyuu weren't watching over the kids. Senjuro had gone off with Tanjiro and his friends for the day to explore while the other three Ubuyashiki kids went with Uzui and his wives to see a puppet show. It was calm. No noise other than the wind and the few birds chirping. 

"You got them right. Let's move on to the other characters." Sanemi nodded at Giyuu's words. Proud of getting the first characters in kanji right. After staying at the Rengoku estate the past couple of months, the jet had made it his personal goal to teach Sanemi how to write. While in the corps, the albino could only read. After his mother had turned into a demon, he never got the chance to learn how to write. Much less when he was busy trying to earn money for his family.

Writing was the least of his concerns. But now that they had free time and the threat of demons long gone; Sanemi could finally focus on writing. "Since you already memorized this, let's start by spelling your name." Handing him a blank sheet of paper, the raven head held his hand. "I will write it but please excuse my handwriting. Since my dominant hand is gone, I have to write with my left," Giyuu chuckles. 

Sanemi ignored his heartbeat. His cheeks heated up and he got a little sweaty. Sanemi hated the fact that a simple touch from Giyuu made him feel on cloud nine. His skin was warm and his palm a little rough from years of training. Yet, it was smaller than Sanemi's own hand. Somehow, after a few months of leaving the sword, Giyuu’s hands got softer. Must be Nezuko's doing. She had been bringing a lot of herbal products for them as a thank you and as a way to help them regain their mental health back.

"It's fine. My writing isn't top notch either," he joked back. That earned him a giggle. "Well, we can at least improve our writing together then." 

Together.

Sanemi smiles, purple eyes tracing Giyuu’s physical features. Even though he couldn't see all the colors the world had to offer, he was grateful to be able to see the color blue. The blue in Giyuu’s eyes had always stood out to him more than any other shade. It was darker yet brighter. Grasping his hand, the jet slowly guided the albino's hand through the paper. The strokes left behind the brush were a little messy but readable. Once again, he glanced at the man beside him.

Giyuu’s eyes at the moment were bright. He smiled. Giyuu looked happy because of him. 

Before Rengoku had gone rogue, the only way Giyuu’s eyes would light up like a million fireflies was when he was around the former flame pillar. Sanemi recalled the bitter jealousy and pure happiness he felt when catching sight of those two together. He was happy that Giyuu found happiness in another. Yet bitter that it wasn't him who could make Giyuu happy. 

"Ok, try to do it by yourself," Giyuu instructed once they were finished. "For how long am I going to do it?" He asked. "Until you manage to write your name properly. Then we'll focus on your last name. The most important thing you need to learn when writing is your name." 

Names...if it were up to Sanemi he would have chosen to learn Giyuu’s name first. Not that he was ever going to mention that. "And after my name?"

"Then we can start with anything you want!" The blue eyed man exclaimed. His crow joined in, making them both laugh. Shoving away any thoughts he had on the late flame pillar and retired water pillar together, Sanemi focused on writing. 

_____

And I see forever in your eyes

I feel okay when I see you smile, smile

***

Sanemi could tell Uzui was catching up to him. Each time the three of them met to catch up, the older one would leave for a few minutes and come back. From time to time Uzui would shoot them a knowing smile while showing off his new born baby boy. Like right now. 

"W-wow...he looks and feels so small…" Giyuu whispered. The tiny infant gurgles. Magenta eyes bright with life. Sanemi smiled at the sight. No matter how many times Giyuu had seen the baby, he was always amazed. He couldn't blame him. Watching over a newborn life was always something that couldn't be described with words. Back when Sanemi had taken care of his siblings, he always sat down amazed at how such a life could be so fragile.

"When are you going to tell him?"

"I don't plan to."

Both men stare at the five people a few feet away from them. Uzui’s wives all surround Giyuu. They seemed happy to have other company. Uzui sighs, his smile dropping a little. "You're scared." It wasn't a question. "And I guess it's too soon for Giyuu to move on."

"It is..I don't think he'll be able to love anyone romantically anymore." 

Sanemi looks at Uzui, a pained smile on his face. "Rengoku, even in death, has a tight hold on Giyuu. One that's impossible to break." He could see it everyday. How Giyuu would stare at the fire they sometimes light up when cooking. On the way he would read the flame pillar’s records for hours. How he would take care of the sunflowers with such loving gestures. Especially when Giyuu cleaned the flame pattern haori Rengoku used to wear. 

Once a week, Giyuu would dust it. Making sure it was in perfect condition before folding it and placing it on the altar made for the three dead Rengoku family members. And how much it hurts to see Giyuu stare at the picture of Kyojuro with affection. 

"Maybe Mitsuri had been right," Placing a comforting hand on the scared male, Uzui looks at the flowers outside. "Once in a lifetime, two souls connect. Making a bond so strong that even death can't separate them. Even if one soul betrays the other, they will always stay connected."

Sanemi clenched his jaw. Burning pain shot through his body. "No matter how much Giyuu tries to move on, he can't because Kyojuro was his soulmate. And that soulmate will be waiting for him in their next life."

"...I know."

He knows, that no matter what, Kyojuro will wait for Giyuu. And Giyuu, he will always love Kyojuro. 

"Sanemi, are you still willing to stay with him? Even if it breaks your heart?"

"Yes."

_____

Wishing on dandelions all of the time

Praying to God that one day you'll be mine

Wishing on dandelions all of the time, all of the time.

***

"Master, with all due respect, why is a non pillar swordsman here?"

Sanemi eyed the flame haired man sitting a few feet away from them. They had all arrived at the monthly pillar meeting, something Sanemi always looked forward to as he got to see Giyuu. However, the moment he arrived his eyes automatically zoomed in on a blonde who was talking to Giyuu enthusiastically. And surprisingly, Giyuu was talking right back. A beautiful smile on his face.

His stomach churned. 

"And where is the flame pillar?" The meeting never started until all the pillars were present. That also meant the cold and grouchy flame pillar Rengoku Shinjuro. Though, it wasn't hard to guess why he wasn't here. Just with the young man that was a spitting image of the flame pillar told enough to Sanemi. 

They would be having someone else join their ranks. And he didn't like how said newbie was already buddy buddy with Giyuu.

"As of today onward, Rengoku Kyojuro will be the flame hashira. His father has retired and since Kyojuro has passed even my highest expectations, he will be stepping in to fill the role," the master said. A serene smile on his face. Uzui humed, a smile on his face. The other pillars seemed to approve. Even Giyuu nodded. A shy grin present on his face. However, Sanemi didn’t like this.

Was the guy joining just because his father was a pillar? No, even someone like Sanemi could tell this guy had worked hard to raise up the ranks. Not saying anything else, he let the master continue talking. The newly named flame pillar had taken a seat next to Giyuu. Bright eyes attentive to whatever their master said. 

Sanemi tried to pay attention, and for the most part he did. Even with his gut churning each time Rengoku added new intel and how Giyuu would back it up. He was no fool. It’s clear these two already have history. It was then it dawned on him. Was this the guy who had been sending letters with flowers to Giyuu? The same guy who made Giyuu smile so softly it hurt to see?

His violet eyes glanced at the two. Giyuu was being more active, brighter even. Rengoku seemed to bring that out of him with zero effort. 

"That will conclude this meeting. Please feel free to stay and enjoy this lovely evening my children." Oyakata-sama got up with the help of his two daughters before bidding goodbye to them. The pillars responded back with a nod and remained on their knees until the master disappeared behind the shoji doors. 

"Welcome to the ranks newbie! I look forward to working with you!"

"Such a young soul, yet so very strong and humble."

"My, my, don't crowd him too much guys. You will intimate him."

Sanemi rolled his eyes. Why was everyone acting like Rengoku was the next big thing? Waiting a few minutes, the albino saw how Giyuu separated himself from the crowd and came next to him. Ignoring the others, he focused his full attention on the water pillar. "You seemed to know him well. Is he a friend of yours?" 

"We met before I became a hashira. He's well trained and has a heart of gold. I'm sure he'll fit the role well. So don't worry too much Shinazugawa," Giyuu responded. A teasing grin on his face. Sanemi scoffed, his face hot with embarrassment. "Who said anything about me being worried?"

"Hahaha, you may have looked like you wanted to start a fight but I can see through you. He'll fit in just fine." A dainty hand placed itself on his shoulder. Even through his clothes, Sanemi could feel the warmth it provided. With a sigh, the wind pillar turned to face Giyuu. He felt conflicted. While he is worried that Rengoku won't fit the role of a hashira, he's also confused as to why he felt angry when he saw Giyuu interact with him. The blue eyed man already said they met each other before his hashira days. 

Still, it made him feel defeated in some way.

A lock of black hair falls from Giyuu’s messy ponytail and lands on his face. The way it frames it was breathtaking and unfair at the same time. Chuckling under his breath, Sanemi gently places the hair behind Giyuu’s ear. His fingers graze the soft flesh of his cheek. He let himself feel it for a few more seconds before pulling away. Giyuu only raised an eyebrow but didn't say anything.

"If you say so Tomioka. I trust in your judgment." His words seemed to brighten up Giyuu who gave him a full smile this time. Sanemi felt the burning eyes of the newbie. How they would burn through his very being. But he didn't care. Not when he was with Giyuu.

However, that seemed to die down after just a few months. No matter how much Sanemi wanted to hate Rengoku, he couldn't. The flame pillar was good at his job. A little too good if you asked him. There were almost zero casualties when Rengoku did his missions. He was kind and respectful to others and always made sure to greet everyone with a bright smile. 

But most importantly, he had managed to capture the heart of Tomioka Giyuu. He did what others couldn't. He brought so much life into Giyuu that he was a completely different person. When Sanemi had heard the news of the two of them getting together, his world shattered. All the colors seemed to fade even more yet the color blue always stayed so vibrant. 

He didn't voice how much pain he was in and congratulated them. Shinobu had tried to talk to him, to make sure he was alright but he ignored her. He didn't need anyone's pity. Especially not from the girl who had told him again and again to shoot his shot. She was right. The more Sanemi kept denying his feelings, the more it would be likely that Giyuu would be snatched by someone else.

"Did you know that Tomioka and Rengoku knew each other way back? Rengoku was fifteen and Tomioka sixteen when they met each other!" Uzui exclaimed. His voice ringing throughout the reserved room they were all in. All, except Giyuu and Rengoku.

Taking a swing of his drink, he let it burn his throat. It didn't matter how early Sanemi had been. He had lost from the very beginning. 

_____

I think you are the one for me 

Cause it gets so hard to breathe 

***

Sanemi stared at the open door of Kyojuro’s room. Inside was Giyuu. The blue eyed jet was folding some clothes and putting them away. Each movement was done with care and gentleness. In the middle of the room Sanemi could see Rengoku's katana. It was perched and next to it was the flame haori that Giyuu always wore these days.

He wouldn't say anything about it, and neither would the kids. They all understood why Giyuu was doing this. Back then, he hadn’t been able to properly mourn Kyojuro. But now, with no demons roaming in the death of night, Giyuu was finally letting himself grieve. And as much as it hurt Sanemi to see the man he loves like this, he was also relieved.

It meant Giyuu was not shutting himself down like before.

Dusting Kyojuro’s picture frame, Giyuu stared at it for a few minutes. His eyes become glassy, the blue becomes more vibrant yet no tears are let out. Instead, Giyuu smiles and continues to clean. Sighing softly, Sanemi walks away softly. He should give Giyuu some space. 

Looking outside the window, he saw the kids playing. He smiles. At the very least he could give them a semi-normal life before he died. Sanemi knew that the curse of the mark would kill him before he reached the age of 25. Same with Giyuu. However, spending his time with them like this made it better. He would die with happy memories. His last moments would be in happiness.

Picking up the stray toys and some books, he cleans the area before watering the inside plants that they received as a gift from Hinatsuro. She had become close friends with Giyuu and many of the times they bonded over flowers and what not. 

"Nemi...let's go out tomorrow." Giyuu’s voice snapped him out of his thoughts. Turning to face him, Sanemi ignored the flutter in his chest at the nickname Giyuu called hi. "Sure, we'll tell the kids-"

"No, I mean, let's go out together. Just the two of us."

Huh…?

"I...I want to go out with you. We've been spending so much time with the kids and I want the two of us to have a little break. Visit the city and explore." A warm hand grabs his, blue eyes locked with purple. "Let's explore and enjoy some time to ourselves."

Warm lips meet his own and oh, Sanemi feels how his chest blooms. Giyuu’s lips feel so soft. They taste like blueberries and a bit of candy. Closing his eyes, Sanemi leans in and lets himself be a little selfish. Pulling away, he smiles. "Ok then…let's go out together."

Giyuu smiles, eyes so full of warmth. "Together."

That was all Sanemi needed to hear before tears left his eyes. Hugging Giyuu close to him, the albino sobs. It had been years since he hoped to hear those words from Giyuu’s mouth. Sanemi had heard them before, but they weren't for him. 

"W-When did-"

"A few months back. Sanemi, I know I'm dense and can be oblivious at times but I'm no fool when it comes to you. And if I'm being honest...I also like you," Giyuu mumbled. His face hidden in Sanemi's chest.

"I-I was afraid to admit it. In a way, I was still attached to Kyojuro and a part of my soul still is." Taking a shaky breath, Giyuu looks up at him. Eyes running with tears. "But I like you. Heck Sanemi, I love you! But at the same time I'm scared. Scared of losing you even if the demon's are gone. I don't want to lose anyone anymore."

Sanemi kisses his forehead. Eyes closed as more tears ran down his face. He understood what Giyuu meant. And he was willing to wait for him no matter what. Silently, he holds Giyuu in his arms and makes a promise to himself and to the kids. 

"I won't leave Giyuu. As long as the mark let's me live, I won't leave."

That he will promise.

_____

When you're looking at me

I've never felt so alive and free

***

"Damn, never thought I would see Giyuu smile again. Especially not like that," Makio said. Her eyes focused on Sanemi and Giyuu. It was clear to everyone that both loved each other deeply. And even if they had no label to their relationship, Makio could feel their connection. It was strong and unbreakable. Maybe that was why she felt a little heartbroken. 

"Guess we never stood a chance," Tengen mumbled. It wasn't a secret among the four of them that they all liked Giyuu. However, they never did try to get close. For the sole reason that Giyuu’s heart already belonged to Sanemi before the owner of said heart even knew. "But I'm happy for him. He no longer clings to Rengoku's ghost like a lifeline," mentioned Suma. The baby in her arms gurgles as if in agreement. 

"As long as he's happy, then so am I. Plus, by the looks of things, we won't have to wait too long to see them take that next step," Hinatsuro steps in. Her hair loose and a second baby in her arms. Makio rubs her swollen belly, a content smile on her lips.

"If I didn't know them, I would say they already formed a family with the way they dote on the four kids under their care." Pointing at Senjuro, Tengen laughs. "I even heard Sanemi had taught him how to talk back to bullies."

Makio giggled. It was true. A few weeks ago she had run into Senjuro being harassed by a couple of older boys. She had been close to marching over there and kicking their asses then Senjuro opened his mouth. She had never laughed so hard in her life. She continued to watch them from afar, her smile growing bigger. Guess they were just side characters meant to watch and see their love bloom.

And that was fine by her.

_____

When you're looking at me

I've never felt so happy

***

Sanemi loved the way Giyuu moaned underneath him. The way he would twitch and bring his body closer to his. Every little movement lit a fire inside him that only Giyuu could satisfy. 

Bringing their lips together, he let himself get embraced in the moment. His lover’s arms around him and his scent was everything he needed at the moment. 

"I-I love you Nemi!" 

Sanemi thrusted up. His lips kissed every inch of Giyuu’s skin. Burying his face on the crook of his lover’s neck, he groaned.

"I love you too, Giyuu."

_____

And I've heard of a love that comes once in a lifetime

And I'm pretty sure that you are that love of mine

***

It had taken a while for Giyuu to finally let himself fall into Sanemi's arms. Four months after Kyojuro had left, Sanemi had been there to help him pick up the pieces of his broken heart. He had been there after Giyuu finished off Shinjuro. When Senjuro needed a shoulder to cry. Shinazugawa Sanemi had been there and stayed there even when things got bad.

After the battle with Muzan, Giyuu didn't even need to ask Sanemi to stay as the albino had already made that decision. Together, they took care of the kids, helped them, and gave them a childhood they deserved. Slowly, things began feeling more domestic. Sanemi would come back from work at a nearby dojo and Giyuu would be at home tending to the plants and making sure everything was in place. 

He doesn't know when it began. Only that he was both confused and scared. Giyuu had fallen in love with three people in his lifetime. Sabito was the first and Rengoku the second. And both ended up dead. After Kyojuro, Giyuu had promised himself to focus on Senjuro and on the kids. He didn't need a love life to be happy. However, just like Shinobu had always said, Giyuu wore his heart on his sleeve. 

Before he knew it, he had fallen for Sanemi.

And it scared him.

So, he did the only thing that was logical to him at the moment. Giyuu buried his feelings and kept them shut. Yet each time Sanemi brushed his hair, hugged him, cooked for him, and just being there for him made it hard. Each passing day Giyuu fell even deeper. And he wanted nothing more than to go and embrace that feeling of love. Giyuu was aware of Sanemi's feelings after the battle with Muzan; rejection was not something he was worried about.

He just couldn't lose anyone anymore. 

However, after spending a week cleaning Kyojuro’s room he realized something. Both of them had limited time on earth. Soon the mark would take its toll and they would die. 

Would Giyuu really be happy dying while knowing that he could spend the next few years of his life with Sanemi?

Just one look at Kyojuro’s picture gave him the answer. 

A piece of his heart will forever stay with Kyojuro. But the flame user would have wanted him to move on. Their string was no more. That was the harsh truth.

And now, here he found himself. Sanemi's arms wrapped around him as the albino slept away. Senjuro had the three Ubuyashiki kids in his arms sleeping peacefully. Smiling, Giyuu snuggled over to Sanemi. He won't let the ghost of his past come haunt him. Not anymore. If he kept living in fear, then was that really living?

No, it wasn't.

Living was being in the arms of his lover.

Living was waking up everyday with the laughter of his children.

Living was seeing his family happy and healthy. 

Living was being together with the people he loves.

Living was being with Shinazugawa Sanemi.

_____

Cause I'm in a field of dandelions 

Wishing on every one that you'd be mine, mine

And I see forever in your eyes

I feel okay when I see you smile, smile

***

"Happy birthday to you! Happy birthday to you! Happy birthday to Senjuro! Happy birthday to you!"

Clapping along, Sanemi laughed. It had been exactly one year since demons perished. And yet, it still felt so soon since he had seen Senjuro as a small child. Now here he was, fifteen and growing way too tall. Blowing the candles, the boy laughs and thanks them while helping Nezuko pass the cake.

Giyuu leans his head on Sanemi's shoulder. Blue eyes twinkling with joy. "He's growing up fast," he said. "Yeah, so are the other three." Giyuu agreed. Their other children were growing up fast. Just recently Senjuro declared he would study medicine in the butterfly estate under the guidance of Aoi who was more than happy to take him in.

Because he wanted to find a cure for both of them.

Sanemi had tried to explain that the mark couldn’t be stopped. But Senjuro remained insistent and studied hard. Now the boy was fifteen, his hair grew longer to which Giyuu adored since he could brush it. After a year, his lover had gotten used to having one arm thanks to the help of their friends.

“I’m worried.” Giyuu looked at the blue sky. A few birds flew by and the smell of flowers surrounded them. “Senjuro, Kiriya, Kanata, and Kuina. We won’t see them grow up.”

“...Yeah…however, we will watch over them. I know Senjuro will take care of them. And we have two more years, Yuu. Let’s take advantage of those years we have left,” Sanemi said softly. His eyes on Giyuu. The jet sighs, a small grin on his face. “True…let’s spend time with them. And when the time comes, Uzui better watch over them. Even if Senjuro will be seventeen, he'll still be a kid.”

And Sanemi couldn’t help but agree. Their kids will be devastated, however, they will be in a world with no demons hunting them. At least they will leave this world without any worries.

“Let’s go and get some cake before Inouske eats it all.” The moment Giyuu says that, Zenitsu screams at Inosuke, who had taken a big chunk of cake. “Give that back! Some people still haven’t gotten a slice, you moron!” 

Senjuro bursted out laughing. Tanjiro begins scowling at them while Nezuko giggles. Uzui isn’t helping much as he keeps chanting ‘fight’ over and over again. Sanemi shakes his head at their behavior. Their friends sure are something else. “C’mon guys! Giyuu-san and Sanemi-san still need a slice! Stop running around with it!”

Two small hands reach out towards Sanemi. A six year old Kanata holds her hands up and he instantly knows what she wants. Picking her up, the albino places her on his shoulders. Letting his daughter get a better view of Tanjiro, Inosuke, and Zenitsu running around. Kuina gets hold of Giyuu’s left hand, a bright smile on her face. 

Kiriya sat next to Senjuro, the nine year old had a bit of frosting on his cheeks, yet he laughed along. 

All three finally looked like kids their age.

“We should probably plan a party for Kiriya. His birthday is getting near.”

“Yeah," agreed Sanemi. “Let’s get him the biggest cake we can find.”

Their two daughters cheer in delight.

_____

Wishing on dandelions all of the time

Praying to God that one day you’ll be mine

Wishing on dandelions all of the time, all of the time

***

Sanemi and Giyuu are now 23, and their bodies have slowly started to catch up with the curse. Yet, that never stopped them from living with a smile on their faces. Day in and day out they would spend time with their four children. Whether it was going out for walks or going out to fish.

Senjuro is sixteen, Kiriya is nine, Kanata is seven along with Kuina. 

Their eldest son had noticed how their health would decrease each day. Yet he never complained nor ever pointed it out. Working hard as ever to find a cure with Aoi and Kanoa in order to keep them alive. 

That is what Kyojuro would have wanted. His brother would have wanted for Giyuu to live and die of old age. To be happy with Sanemi and to not worry ever again. Mixing the red and orange mixture, the blonde closed the lid and placed it next to the other two medicines he made. Jotting down a few notes he sighs. 

His eyes landed on a picture of his parents and Kyojuro. In this one, Senjuro had been just a few months old. He smiles. Soon, very soon, he will find the cure and help his two guardians, his parents, stay alive.

“Senjuro! Lunch is ready!” Sumi called, her voice as sweet as ever. “Coming!” Putting his things away, Senjuro walks out the room.

_____

Dandelion into the wind you go

Won’t you let my darling know?

Dandelion into the wind you go

Won’t you let my darling know that

***

“They're getting worse. I don’t think they have much time left.”

Suma hums under her breath, laying another wet towel on both Sanemi’s and Giyuu’s foreheads. Another year went by and they are now twenty four. No one wanted to mention it but, the two of them won’t make it to twenty five. Senjuro, the poor boy had turned seventeen just a few months yet he didn’t celebrate it like the past two years.

Instead, he was locked up in his room trying to find a cure for his parents. Kiriya, Kuina, and Kanata went back and forth helping around the house and checking on the former pillars. Today, Suma, Makio, and Hinatsuro volunteered to watch over them while Tengen took them out.

By some miracle, Aoi managed to get Senjuro out of his room to spend time with his siblings. Suma was thankful for that.

“W…Where are the kids?” Asked Giyuu softly. His pale skin was wet with sweat. “They're out with Tengen. There was a festival in town that the kids wanted to go to so he took them along with Senjuro.”

“That’s…good…” Sanemi mumbled. His cheeks flushed red and his breath was a little heavy. Sumu pressed her lips into a thin line but nodded. “They will be back soon, so don’t worry and rest! I heard Hinatsuro was making salmon daikon! And Makio went to buy some ohagi!”

That brought a chuckle from the two, yet it brought pain to Suma. To see Giyuu, a man that she still loves to this day, suffer. To see Sanemi, someone who always brought reassurance to everyone, someone strong in this state made her want to cry. 

Grasping their hands into her slightly cooler ones, the young woman says a small prayer before singing a lullaby. Within minutes, both fell asleep. Their chest rising slowly while their skin got some of its natural color back.

“They fell asleep,” Hinatsuro said from behind the shoji door. Her shadow illuminated by the soft candles in the room. “...They aren't going to last much longer…”

“I know…I know.” Her wife’s voice cracked at the end of her sentence. “Guys,” Makio’s voice rang in the quiet house, a bag of ohagi in her arm. “We need to prepare the table before the kids come…back.” Suma nodded. Makio may be a strong person but she could tell her wife also wanted to cry. 

“Yeah, Tengen should be bringing them back soon.”

____

I’m in a field of dandelions

Wishing on every one that you’d be mine, mine

And I see forever in your eyes

I feel okay when I see you smile

***

By the time spring arrived, both men could no longer move their bodies. Yet, they managed to hold each other as tightly as possible. 

“I love you Giyuu, so, so much…”

“Me…too. I love you Sanemi…”

The albino smiled. They lived together for the past few years. He shared some of the best moments of his life with Giyuu. The man he loved from the very beginning. And for that, he will always be grateful. 

“When we are reborn…let’s meet again Nemi.”

“Yeah…and this time, let’s live a very long and healthy life.”

Giyuu smiles and closes his eyes for the last time. Sanemi follows soon after.

____

Wishing on dandelions all of the time 

Praying to God that one day you’ll be mine

Wishing on dandelions all of the time, all of the time

***

Placing a blue forget me not and a white camellia on the two graves, Kiriya places his hands in a prayer. He was the only one here. His siblings were with Uzui. Kanata and Kuina couldn't stop crying since the start of the funeral and Senjuro had stayed quiet.

It wasn’t until after the funeral that Senjuro bursted into tears before falling to the ground. Apologizing for not being able to find a cure for them. Kanoa had immediately hit him behind the head and yelled at him that it wasn’t his fault. Nothing was his fault. 

Kiriya smiles at the two graves. Tears in his purple eyes. After the death of his parents, Sanemi and Giyuu had been the closest thing he had to parental guidance and love. Despite the fact that they weren’t their blood children, both had taken the four of them under their wings and helped them bloom. 

His father had made a good choice in making them hashiras.

“I promise I will continue on living. To be happy and watch over Senjuro, along with Kanata and Kuina.” A sob left his throat “I-I hope you t-two meet in the afterlife.” Closing his eyes, the ten year old boy lowered his head to the ground. “I heard from Nezuko that heaven is a really nice place. One filled with dandelions everywhere and it’s so warm. And that the dandelions are all the promises lovers throughout the ages made and kept even in death.”

Raising his head, Kiriya chuckles. Tears still ran down his cheeks. 

“See you in another life, dad and papa.”

____

I’m in a field of dandelions 

Wishing on every one that you’d be mine, mine