The cart creaked as it was pulled along winding roads, hidden paths, and dense forests. James finally realized just how well-concealed the Demon Slayer Corps headquarters truly was—far beyond what he had imagined.
After passing through a particularly shadowy bamboo forest, the scenery suddenly opened up.
Not far ahead was a cluster of elegant buildings, a collection of classic Japanese-style pavilions and serene courtyards spread across the land like pieces on a chessboard.
This must be the headquarters of the Demon Slayer Corps... and also the ancestral home of the Ubuyashiki family, James thought, taking in the tranquil atmosphere.
"Master James, please follow me."
A quiet, robed figure emerged from a nearby alley and bowed respectfully.
James nodded, then turned to bid farewell to Tanjirou and the others.
"Tanjirou, make sure you all rest well and recover. If you ever have time, come find me—we can train together and exchange techniques."
With that, James followed the attendant, known as a Yin, through several turns down narrow passageways. They eventually arrived at a small courtyard tucked away in a secluded corner. The space featured a single house, bordered by a delicate bamboo grove. Despite its simplicity, the courtyard was spacious enough for practicing sword techniques.
"Master James, this will be your residence moving forward. As a Hashira, you're entitled to select an attendant to help manage your daily needs."
"No need," James replied calmly. "Just keep things as they are."
He wasn't one to ask for much. All he needed was a place where he could focus and train. Whether in the past or now, that was the one thing that never changed.
"Understood," the Yin replied. "You may use the crow to communicate with the headquarters or other swordsmen. All future mission notices will also be relayed via your personal crow."
As soon as he finished speaking, the Yin blew a small whistle. In an instant, a pitch-black crow swooped down from the sky with impressive speed. Its scarlet eyes scanned the area as it flapped its wings, glossy feathers rippling in the air.
"What a handsome crow," James murmured with admiration.
"You may give it a name. From now on, it will be your companion."
James smirked slightly. "Cuckoo."
The Yin blinked in surprise at the odd choice, but said nothing.
"Sir James," the crow suddenly spoke in a deep, clear male voice, landing on James's shoulder. "From today, I shall be known as Cuckoo. I look forward to working with you."
The crow bowed its head and extended its wings in a salute. After relaying a few more housekeeping matters, the Yin gave one final bow and left. James understood how much work the Yins managed behind the scenes. Every member of the Demon Slayer Corps deserved respect—well, everyone except that annoying Brother Xie.
Now that he was alone, James took some time to rest and walk around his new courtyard. The house was pristine, clearly cleaned regularly. The furnishings were simple but complete, with fresh bedding and tasteful decor.
Stepping into the center of the yard, James inhaled deeply. The moisture in the air gathered until it became a fine mist that hung in the space around him.
He closed his eyes and began practicing the Breathing of Sound.
Unlike the Breathing of Thunder, which drastically increased speed, Sound Breathing focused on enhancing perception while still improving speed moderately. It allowed for a more balanced combat style—less explosive, but far more aware of surroundings.
The Sun Breathing Technique, however, was in a league of its own. As the original and most powerful breathing style, it was both revered and elusive. His proficiency bar with Sun Breathing had started at a daunting 1,000 points.
But why can't I improve my proficiency any further? James wondered, his breath steady. Is my understanding of Sun Breathing still incomplete?
As the sun dipped below the horizon, James continued his training. Except for a quick meal Ino had prepared earlier, he spent the entire afternoon honing his breathing techniques.
Each breath circulated energy through his body, refining his movements, strengthening his muscles, and sharpening his senses. His progress bar climbed steadily.
Bang!
Someone knocked on the door.
"Come in," James called, pausing his practice.
The door slid open, revealing a young woman with striking features—large light-green eyes, a pair of moles under her eyes, rosy cheeks, and three long pink braids that ended in grass-green tips. Her entire presence sparkled with energy.
Kanroji Mitsuri, the Love Hashira, had arrived.
"Excuse me, are you James-kun? I heard from the master that you and Uzui-san defeated an Upper Moon demon together. That's incredible!"
Her eyes twinkled as she clasped her hands excitedly and bounced on her toes.
"You flatter me. I only did what needed to be done," James replied with a warm smile. He couldn't help but feel drawn to her infectious energy.
"Oh! I almost forgot—I'm Kanroji Mitsuri. I live right next door! Please take care of me!"
She bowed with her usual enthusiasm.
"I also brought a dessert I made myself! Would you like to try it? Would you? Would you?"
Her eyes sparkled with anticipation. James hesitated only briefly before sighing inwardly.
How could I possibly say no?
Besides, he knew the politics of the situation too well. If he refused, Mitsuri would be heartbroken. If he accepted, the Snake Hashira—who was famously known to harbor a secret crush on her—might seethe with jealousy.
Either way, he's going to be mad. I might as well enjoy the dessert.
Chuckling to himself, James invited Mitsuri into the house.
The two sat down and began to sample the treats she had brought.
James quickly realized that Mitsuri wasn't just a passionate eater—she was a fantastic cook, too. Every bite was delicious, the balance of sweetness and texture exquisite.
She had a bright, innocent personality, equal parts enthusiastic and delicate.
A perfect wife candidate, James mused. No wonder so many people fall for her during blind dates.
After they had eaten most of the dessert, Mitsuri suddenly clapped her hands to her forehead.
"Oh no, I almost forgot! The master wants to see you tomorrow morning. Are you free, James-kun?"
James resisted the urge to facepalm.
So this was your main purpose all along? he thought, slightly amused.
"No problem," he said with a nod. "I've heard quite a lot about him from Tanjirou, and I've known Mr. Ubuyashiki for a while."
Mitsuri smiled sweetly and, after cleaning up, returned to her residence. James, meanwhile, headed to his bedroom to continue training.
His obsession with growth wasn't just a matter of pride—it was survival.
People born with talent were called geniuses. Those with strength were revered. But a genius who couldn't convert talent into power? They were prey—nothing more than fattened sheep awaiting slaughter.
To avoid that fate, James pushed himself relentlessly. Day and night.
---
The next morning arrived.
As the soft light of dawn filtered through the bamboo leaves, James opened his eyes from meditation. His sky-blue irises glimmered with calm focus. He washed up and waited patiently.
Soon, Mitsuri appeared at the entrance, waving excitedly.
They walked together, winding through corridors and courtyards until they arrived at a solemn building.
Ubuyashiki Kagaya waited inside.
Despite being a young man, Kagaya bore an appearance ravaged by time and illness. His face was severely disfigured by the creeping spread of a mysterious purple poison. He was blind, but spoke in a gentle, soothing tone that filled the room with calm.
James respected him deeply. In a world plagued by demons, Kagaya was a rare leader—someone who gave everything for the sake of humanity.
"I've been looking forward to meeting you, James-kun. Ahem..." Kagaya spoke with a quiet cough.
"I'm sorry to trouble you, Mitsuri. Would you mind waiting outside for a bit? I'd like to speak with James-kun privately."
James raised an eyebrow. This wasn't what he had expected.
Mitsuri, though surprised, bowed obediently and left the room.
Kagaya turned his sightless gaze toward James.
"James-kun, you are not from this land, are you? Ahem…"
Øóffer going on for diamond tier
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