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trancylovecraft · 4 months ago

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(KNY) YANDERE PLATONIC! KOKUSHIBO x SISTER READER: You, Shibou. I, Kokoro (CHAPTER NINETEEN)

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CHAPTER NINETEEN: "Your act is a ruse."

A cult is a group requiring unwavering devotion to a set of beliefs and practices which are considered deviant outside the norms of society, which is typically led by a charismatic and self-appointed leader who tightly controls its members.

SLASH!

The demons head was swiftly removed from it's neck, A splatter of blood erupting from the stump as the head hit the forest floor.

It hit the ground hard, Bouncing once, Twice and a final third before it rolled away into the nearby shrubbery, Bound to burn up into nothing but sundust.

It was killed in an instant.

In a blink of an eye it.. It was dead..

The girl was sat within the clearing of the forest, Fallen to the ground and her body beaten up from the attack. Her slayer uniform was ragged, Torn at the edges and covered head to toe in filth, A mixture of grime and blood staining on the fabric.

Blood dripped down her forearm. Haori sleeve rolled up to get a view of the monstrous bite mark now embedded into her skin, With entire intent to have ripped off flesh from her bones and scarf down the rest.

Shinobu's breath was rapid and ragged, Chest going up and down with her heart racing miles an hour. Adrenaline still coursed through her punctured veins, Not yet worn off from the promise of death that gone unfulfilled.

Eyes turned up to the girl that prevented it.

She stood there like an Onna-musha of old, The moonlight graced by her figure. The luminosity rolled down the reflective edge of her blade, Barely even coated in the blood of the demon she had slayed.

Shinobu's breath was caught in her throat, Watching as her dragon blue haori danced in the midnight breeze. Enraptured in her form as she turned around, Eyes like spotlights meeting with Shinobu's.

"Are you alright?"

Her voice just as resonating as she was.

"Y-Yes.. I'm fine, I.. I'm alright." Shinobu stammered out as she steadied herself, Grasping at clumps of grass below her. Shinobu watched as the girl walked towards her, A strange looking sword sheathing into a hilt.

"Your arm.. It's injured." The girl observed. She bent down and Shinobu stifled a gasp once the girl grasped her arm, Gently raising it to examine the bite-shaped puncture marks in her skin. Watching the blood trickle down from the wound.

Her eyes narrowed.

"A close call, I'm sorry we didn't get here sooner.. Do you have any medical supplies on you?" She asked simply as she reached out towards the wound, Her eyes unaverred, Almost as if she hadn't slaughtered that demon like it was nothing only a few moments ago. Shinobu raised a finger, Pointing towards her satchel lain only arms-length away.

"I-In my bag, I keep supplies on me at all times.." She sputtered as her arm was let go of, Watching as the girl reached out over to her satchel and begin to shuffle through the compartments.

She fished out bandages, A cloth and cleaning alcohol. Shinobu knew very well that she could've tended to herself, But she found herself unable to do something as the girl dampened the cloth with alcohol and began to press it onto the wound.

"Ah!" Shinobu gasped, Body jerking from the sudden burning sensation on her arm.

"Sorry.. I should have warned you." The girl apologised, Pausing momentarily. She only continued once Shinobu gave her the go ahead with a small nod, Letting her continue to disinfect the wound with the cloth.

Shinobu stiffened as it ran across her skin, Though much more delicately this time. The girl glanced back up towards Shinobu, Examining her face.

"My name is Fujimori [F/N]. Your name is Kocho Shinobu, Am I right?" [F/N] asked as she cleaned away the ichor. Her other hand steadied Shinobu's arm, The warmth of her palm radiating nothing but unusual comfort to Shinobu.

It was almost enough to make her calm down entirely.

That otherworldly warmth.. Shinobu almost leaned into it.

"Yes, That's right.. I remember you and that other girl from final selection.." Shinobu confirmed, Recalling her face from only a month ago when they had passed the final selection.

How could she not? [F/N] that other girl had wiped the board. Most, If not all demons in there were slaughtered by them and them alone.

"How did you do that- You.. You decapitated it so fast." Shinobu muttered to herself, Memories rushing back to her of that night in Final Selection. How the burning scent of demonic ash flooded the air, How the very person bandaging her arm had emerged from the wisteria scented by the overwhelming tinge of demonic blood.

Shinobu's breath was caught as [F/N] began to open up the roll of bandages, Humming.

"It was distracted by you and I had a pretty good angle, I guess." [F/N] said as she began to bandage up the bitemark on Shinobu's arm. Shinobu shook her head.

"That's not what I.." She trailed off, Her voice dying down at the pain of her wrenching heart. That demon almost killed her because of Shinobu's stupid emotions, They were what had almost lead her to her grave.

"Any other demons in the area?"

"A-Another inside the house, I think.. I didn't get too good of a look."

"Alright. Any other slayers with you that we should know of? Any slain?"

"N-No.. I came out here on my own. This.. This isn't an official mission."

"Any family we can get you back to?"

"No.. Not anymore."

[F/N]'s steady eyes softened, Just a little bit.

"I see." She said, Continuing to bandage her arm.

Kanae.

Kanae, Her older sister. It hadn't been long since Shinobu watched her bleed to her death, Not long since Shinobu screamed and wept over her corpse, The breaking sun shining on her listless face.

Her hand had gone limp in hers, Her eyes loosing that shine that looked at Shinobu so brightly before. Shinobu had been so distraught, So destroyed by her death.. She should've known that her emotions were gonna cloud her judgement.

Lead her here, All for some stupid form of vengeance.

"There you go, All done.." [F/N] said as she finally finished bandaging Shinobu's arm, Letting go of it to let Shinobu get a look at the treated limb. "You shouldn't go hunting demons without anyone aware of where you are, Don't do it again, Okay?"

Shinobu nodded, Her eyes trailing away from [F/N]. How stupid she was.. She wasn't thinking logically.

"I-I understand, Thank you for bandaging my arm.."

"Heeeey~!"

A high pitched voice echoed out from behind them.

Shinobu's eyes widened, Peeking behind [F/N]'s figure to see a girl prancing out of the busted down door of the house, The one the demon had previously resided in. She was flailing around a blood speckled sword in the air, A goofy smile plastered on her face.

She had hair the colour of strawberries, Both cap and flesh. Her cheeks chubby and rosy, There was no doubt about who she was.

"I got the demon inside the house! Did you get the one- Oh!" Mitsuri skittered to a halt once the chartreuse of her eyes landed on Shinobu's crumpled figure, Her shoes causing digs in the ground as she stopped infront of her.

There was a glint in her eyes, That smile she wore widened.

"You're Kocho Shinobu, Aren't you?" Mitsuri gasped, Her cheeks growing a hotter shade as she looked down at her.

Shinobu blinked, Nodding slowly.

"Y-Yes-"

"-Oh my gosh, I'm Kanroji Mitsuri!" Mitsuri exclaimed, Accidentally cutting her off as she waved to Shinobu. Mitsuri spun on her heal to face [F/N] who stood awkwardly off to the side. "We saw her at Final Selection, Didn't we, [F/N]?"

"Yeah, She was there." [F/N] responded, Nodding curtly as she watched the exchange between the other two.

"Of course, I knew it..! Oh my gosh, I could never mistake that haori!" Mitsuri beamed as she sheathed her sword, The one with blood still rolling down the tip to the edge. Shinobu shook her head.

"I-I'm sorry, I.. How did you both get here? I.. I wasn't aware there was any other slayers around.." Shinobu blurted out as her eyes shook, Just the same as her fingers as she grasped clumps of grass between them.

Mitsuri grinned.

"We saw you a little bit ago in the nearby village, It was complete coincidence that our mission was the same as yours!" Mitsuri explained airily, Ignorant to Shinobu's true intentions here. "You know we keep getting missions left and right with no break, Honestly! You should come along to see it sometime!"

Mitsuri gasped suddenly, Eyes widening that made Shinobu jump.

"Oh! That'd be so fun, It's just been me and [F/N]-chan for ages now, It'd be so nice to have another girl around!" Mitsuri clapped her hands, Glancing towards [F/N] who raised an eyebrow.

Shinobu's lips parted, Her jaw dropping. Was Mitsuri saying what Shinobu thinks she is?

"Wait, You want me to come with you..? Just like that? You don't even know me.. I.." Shinobu trailed off, Voice dying with her words. Her eyes were dead set on Mitsuri's who looked back at her with nothing but amicability.

"Of course you can come with us! It'd be fun and you can't keep going on solo missions, It's not safe!" Mitsuri exclaimed as she gestured towards Shinobu's injuries, Her wounded arm and the dirt across her face, Mitsuri looked at it with worry.

[F/N] 'hmphed' from the side, A sort of humour in her voice.

"Either run now, Or you're with us forever. Trust me, She's insistent." [F/N] mused from the side with a glint in her eyes, Watching as Mitsuri spun around to meet her eye.

"Hey! It's not like I'm forcing her!" She huffed, Shooting [F/N] a childish look.

Shinobu watched as the two girls began to bicker back and forth, Her heart still freshly thundering in her chest. Though she felt it begin to slow, Calming. Though the two girls in front of her fought, It seemed to soothe Shinobu's heart, If only a little bit.

She didn't know why, Maybe it was the simple silliness of such an argument, The light-heartedness simply being the confirmation that Shinobu was alive to see such a tone.

When offered, Shinobu gratefully took the hand that helped her up to her feet. That and the assistance when she found out her ankle was sprained, Both [F/N] and Mitsuri acting as crutches to hobble her to the nearby village for proper inspection.

Though Shinobu couldn't help but feel a little sorry, Sorry that the both of them had to hold her up by the armpits just to keep her steady, Sorry that if she was just a little stronger they wouldn't need to bother.

Come morning, Shinobu couldn't help but accept Mitsuri's offer, The one that asked if she would join them on their missions. Mitsuri seemed so excited to have another girl around, The joy near radiating off her.

[F/N] didn't seem to mind either, Even rather understanding when Shinobu held them back due to her dodgy ankle.

The both of them seemed like the golden standard to Shinobu, She didn't wanna let them down.

So when she was given the go-ahead from the village doctor, They set off down the pathway, Harked by the call of the crow to the next big thing. Shinobu trailed beside them, Skipping, Laughing, Contributing to the small talk.

She smiled too. One sweet, Disingenuous, Smile.

☆♡☆

"Hey.. Hey..! Shi- Hina, Are you okay?"

Shinobu blinked, Her eyes focusing back into reality.

Mitsuri's voice was full of concern as her eyes darted towards Shinobu, Her lips pursed together and a worried look shining in her eyes. Shinobu's expression was blank for a minute, Almost as if she was registering what Mitsuri was saying.

But she shook her head, Turning back to the path in front of her.

"I'm.. Sorry. I let my mind wander off again, How strange, That's unlike me.." Shinobu mumbled to Mitsuri, Who looked back at her with an unsure look in her eyes. Shinobu didn't mind it, Instead breathing in, The scent of Lotus growing ever more poignant.

They all continued on, Following on the trail of the woman that had came across them all. The one with the fruit basket swinging in her hands, The one dressed in all white with a kindly face to match.

She led them through the mountainside, Passing through the abundance of trees and frosted fernery. She guided them further and further into the maws of the woodlands where it got darker and darker, The sunlight barely peeking through the gaps in the leaves.

It was strange. Though the usual scents of melting snow and rife forest air were flooding their senses, A strange undercurrent of bitter lotus seemed to grow stronger and stronger with each passing step.

They were getting closer, Shinobu could tell.

That same scent was one she recognised. Not like the airy scent of the lotus blooming in a pond, Not like the subtle perfume [F/N] use to wear when she was still around- No.

It was the same smell that tinged the metallic scent of Kanae's blood when Shinobu came across her dying body.

She pursed her lips, Eyes narrowing just a touch as she followed on with the woman and her child.

No one dared to speak, No one had the guts to. Not even the usual chipper attitude of someone like Mitsuri was present in their midst, Instead a rather thick air surrounded them like a fog.

Kanao and Maika trailed behind them, Nezuko still safely nestled in the box that appeared to simply be luggage.

"We're getting closer.. Please, Keep in mind before you enter to cleanse yourself as soon as we get inside."

Shinobu's eyes widened along with the rest, The premises finally coming into frame.

And it was a temple.

A Buddhist temple with blood-red accents adorning the support beams, One's that held the tiled rooftops so high that they pierced through the spruce tree's surrounding it. The inside couldn't be seen too well, Stone-brick walls towered over the area like a pen, The inside unable to be seen even if Shinobu had stood atop Mitsuri's shoulders and then some.

The temple itself however could be seen along with the sister buildings surrounding it, All with tiles lining the rooves and the wafting smell of smouldering incense drifting out from the inside. Lotus, No doubt that had been where the scent was coming from. Mitsuri's nose twitched at it, Slightly.

Sunlight cracked through the leaves, Shining on the moss and growing sublimity within the cracks of the walls. Nature seemed to go wild here, Flowers flourished in alluring colours of flush and vivid bursts of rainbow.

Anthuriums among the ferns, Roses and hydrangeas among the gardenia's. Mitsuri couldn't deny that the revitalising air they gave off was calming, Neither could the rest of the girls approaching the tall gates only a good few metres away.

Shinobu however, She felt imposed by the sheer size of the place, Looking left and right she couldn't even see a corner in the stone fencing surrounding the area, Only view it disappear into the thick line of trees and shadow.

From inside they could hear far away chatter along with the sublime sound of sloshing waves, No doubt from a mountain river nearby.

It was.. Tranquil?

"Ah, I see you're interested in the architecture..!" The woman observed, Eyes darting over to Shinobu's wandering gaze. Her lips upturned. "While we do practice Buddhism here, Shintoism is also a firm core in our belief, So don't worry about differences in tradition and such.."

"I see.. I must say I am rather impressed by the construction!" Shinobu's smile returned to her face as she trailed along with the woman, Her eyes narrowing slightly. "It is rather large, Yes? I suppose it must've taken a long time to build.."

"Ah.. Yes, Though I wasn't here when our convent was first made.." The woman trailed off, A light smile on her face. "I suppose you may like to see some of the wonderous scenery inside, The ponds and the prayer hall's and the.. Oh! I seem to be rambling.. I suppose you may need to see on your way to meet our grace..!"

Mitsuri hummed from behind Shinobu, Her lips pursed.

"Our Grace..?" She questioned.

"Yes! It is important to make yourselves known to Our Grace, Tradition may I say.. If you are nervous I can assure you that he is upmost kind and welcoming." The woman praised, Her wicker basket swinging in her hand. "Of course, Folk of faith such as ourselves are to always be gracious to one and other, Even those who may not believe in our ways specifically.."

The person who must be in charge of this place, The ringleader running the circus. Shinobu had no idea who they could've been, However judging by the open communications with Hiyohara village it had to be assumed that they were charismatic.

Obviously, It fitted the profile of a cult leader anyways.

But for them to go be meeting with him, Some kind of glorified prophet? It made hearts drum in the group's chest, Just a little bit faster. The way she referred to them by 'Our Grace' certainly raised a few brows on cue.

"That's.. Lovely. It's nice that you have that sort of view..!" Mitsuri chimmed in, An awkward yet earnest smile on her face. The woman glanced back towards her, Nodding along to her words as she soaked them in.

She hummed.

"To be courteous and kind to others of faith, Even outside of our own community.. It is only apart of our good nature." The woman proclaimed softly, A sort of proud smile adorning her face.

Too proud, If you asked Shinobu. Who hummed politely as the woman spoke.

"And your own belief, This community.. What is it that you would call it?" Shinobu asked, Now walking next to the woman with an intrigued glint in her eyes. The woman glanced towards her child following beside her, Before looking back up with a soft expression.

"The Eternal Paradise Faith, That's what we call our doctrine.." She answered, Her voice prideful yet soft as she spoke.

The corners of Shinobu's lips twitched, Wrenching themselves into an even wider smile.

"What an interesting name.." She commented.

☆♡☆

"Kanae-nee..!"

The sun rose on the horizon, Cracking over the small town, Where the only thing heard was the strained cries of a young girl.

Shinobu collapsed onto the dirt pathway next to the crippled body of her older sister, Her hair splayed out and dampened with her own blood. Her eyes stared up towards the blue expanse above, Watching as the morning clouds drift away from her. A chilled breeze dusting her burning cheeks.

Shinobu grasped onto what she could of her older sister, Scalding tears bursting out from her eyes as she saw the blood pooling around her gut. Kanae barely registered her younger sisters presence, The delicate lavender of her eyes only now turning over to look at Shinobu.

A flicker still remained in them, One of recognition.

"Shinobu.. Y-You shouldn't be here, There's a demon.." Kanae sputtered, Blood spitting out of her mouth with each syllable, Her chest heaving with each breath. Kanae felt her head lifted and placed against a chest, An arm supporting her, A dull throb in her midsection.

Shinobu sobbed, Her eyes red and irritant as her hands ran over the wound.

"T-The demon's gone, Nee-chan- It's gone..! But you're wounded- Oh gods.. You're wounded!" She wailed. Hands twitching, Roaming, Mind racing as she tried to figure out what to do about her dying sister.

Every second it seemed like more and more blood spilled around her. Her uniform, Her hair, Her skin and her hands were all drenched in it. Looking down, Kanae's eyes narrowed.

"Ah, Would you look at that.." She stammered as she raised a hand towards her eyeline, Fingers shaking as she observed the strange red liquid trickling down them. Shinobu wept, Desperately begging, Praying, Trying to figure out what to do.

Kanae glanced towards her, The expression on her face softening as Shinobu sputtered out some string of words that Kanae just couldn't understand anymore.. Not over the ringing in her ears, Like resonating bells in a procession.

Kanae smiled, No matter how difficult it was to do now.

Shinobu was in pieces, Voices screaming across her mind. One wailing from her mind to her mouth, Another praying, Begging whatever god could be listening to save Kanae. And another- One screaming at her, Asking where her med kit was.

It was at home, Shinobu knew. It wasn't with her, Unable to be accessed.

Tears flooded down her face just a bit faster, Hands shaking as she let out choked cries.

"S-Stay with me..! You're gonna be okay, Nee-chan..! Backup is on the way.. I-It's on the way, I promis-"

Shinobu was cut off by the feeling of warm palms cupping her cheek, Weakly grasping onto them, Turning her to face Kanae. Shinobu found herself breathless once she saw her delicate expression, Peaceful, Comforting as she looked into Shinobu's eyes. She hummed.

"I-It hurts.. Shinobu, It hurts to see you frown like this.. Where is that smile I always loved..?" Kanae asked, Ichor trickling down her lips onto her chin, Lungs heavy and burnt. Shinobu could barely understand, Shaking her head.

"N-Nee-chan don't worry about me, You're bleeding out- You're injured-"

"I'm dying, Aren't I, Shinobu..?" Kanae cut in once more, Her ears ringing the ache in her gut. It was only now that tears began to speckle her eyes, Though the smile remained on her face, They dripped down her cheeks.

Shinobu couldn't answer her, Lips parted but no words emerged. It felt like too much, Heart ready to explode out of her chest as her eyes trailed back down towards her wound. Shinobu's breathing grew ragged, Wincing at the sight of her exposed flesh and pond of red within it.

How would she respond, How could she respond? There was no way she could have ever answered such a question, No matter how much time she was given. Shinobu wished she was given time, Time to think, Time to talk, Time for backup to arrive with the needed medical supplies to save her sister.

But the sun continued to rise over the horizon, The cool breeze continuing to run through the village streets.

And it continued to be silent. No footsteps rushing over to the scene, No yells of concern from the villagers or the backup that should have arrived by now. There was no one, Not even the demon that did this to her anymore, Just her and Shinobu.

She wept, Her voice aching as she spoke.

"..Who did this to you..?" Shinobu croaked, Gripping Kanae closer as she swept the matted hair out of her eyes. Her voice shook with both grief and rage, Grief at the sight and anger at the cause.

Kanae's eyes lowered, Her bloodied lips pursing.

"It.. It was a demon moon.. Upper Two, Y-Yes.. That was it." Kanae said slowly, A sort of sorrowed look running across her face. It was the first time Shinobu had seen such an expression on her sister's face, Such a sad little frown on her lips.

"I.. Upper Two.. Upper Two did this to you.." Shinobu accounted, Eyes searching, That sorrowed glint beginning to burn as she gritted her teeth. "Where did it go, Nee-chan, Where did it go..?!"

"It was so strange, Such colourful eyes.. Yet I saw no life behind them." Kanae recalled, Her brows furrowing as the memories flashed before her eyes. "It was sad.. I felt bad for him. He smiled and laughed like anyone else yet.. Such a pitiful existence, I couldn't imagine living like that.."

Shinobu couldn't comprehend Kanae's words, Just held her tighter. She was bleeding out, Her innards severed and her lungs aflame with frost.. Yet she felt bad for the demon, Felt pity for it-

Shinobu choked out another sob.

"N-Nee-chan.. Please.." She wheezed out as she felt the hands cupping her cheeks soften, Kanae's thumbs moving towards the corners of her mouth, Guiding them up until Shinobu was wearing a caricature of a smile.

"S-Shinobu.. Come on, Smile for me.. Don't look so sad, It doesn't suit you well.." Kanae whispered, Her fingers beginning to shake as she heard the ringing grow louder in her ears. The clouds in the sky drifting off further, The breeze on her skin no longer registering in her mind.

The thumbs holding up Shinobu's smile trembled, Shinobu's eyes widened.

"K-Kanae..?"

Her eyes, The light in them faded. Kanae just stared at her with nothing else to be found as her body went limp. A smile could still be found on her face, Blood staining her lips, The rising rhythm of her chest was no more.

"N-No.. NO!" Shinobu screamed as Kanae's hand fell to the ground, Her head fallen to the side. Shinobu hollered as she shook her body, Screaming, Crying, Bile rising at the back of her throat as she hollered out.

"K-Kanae- Don't leave me- Y-YOU'RE ALL I HAVE..! Kanae.. KANAE-!"

Footsteps could be heard pounding their way towards her, Rapidly hitting the ground but Shinobu couldn't hear them anymore over her wailing. She begged, Desperatley hollering out her sisters name.

Over and over like a mantra.

The smile remained on Shinobu's face. No matter how much retch fell down her chin, No matter how much it mixed with the saliva in her mouth as she screamed. It stayed firm where Kanae had fit it.

Like carved stone, It stayed etched.

No matter how much it cracked.

☆♡☆

Shinobu breathed out, A polished smile on her face as her eyes laid firm on the door in front of them.

They stood before a door unlike any other, Not like the usual Shoji used within the rest of the building they were lead into. It was made of actual firm, Polished wood that seemed scrubbed to shine like the ceramic pots surrounding it.

Shinobu had tried to peak behind the crack, However it was impossible to make out except for speckles of light and shadow from within. It left her with slight disappointment, Leaving her to step back and simply wait.

They had entered into the convent, The gates pulled open with a croak as they were lead through the courtyard. The woman was right when she said it was wonderous, The place was grand in design, Beautiful architecture spanning the entire grounds.

The pathways were stone and smoothened down, The tall buildings were decorating with talismans and statues: Maneki-Neko and Tanuki being a common design as they were littered across the decks.

People of all kinds roamed around the place, The population count of this place being higher than expected, Making the group share some looks. They all seemed to laugh, The women carrying baskets of fruit, The men hauling tools around their back as they bantered and children chasing each other in thrilling games of tag.

Shinobu had waved to one of them as they ran by, The smile on her face sharpening once they left.

But now?

The group had been led towards the main building, A tall construction that looked half-way between a Buddhist and Shinto temple. It had the imposing red arches leading up to the entrance, The rooves decorated in Omamori which was usually held on person, Now tangled from the edges like hanging wisteria.

It had spider legs expanding out from it, Running around the entire convent, Connecting to each sister building with long pillared pathways. Shinobu breathed out at the sheer size of it, Eyes narrowing.

How were they going to find the demon here?

As the group approached they were stopped by two monks, Both with shaven heads and dressed head to toe in a pure blinding white. The woman had walked up the leading stairs, Talking to them in a hushed whisper that Shinobu couldn't make out no matter how hard she tried.

Eventually they were let in, The monks parting as they were brought inside.

"Hina-chan.. What are we gonna do?"

That familiar voice cut through the air, Quiet but urgent.

"Go in, Greet the leader behind this place and then get to work." Shinobu responded, Her voice but a whisper in the air as she glanced towards Mitsuri. Mitsuri in turn frowned, However nodded and turned back to face the door.

Shinobu breathed out, Smile still remaining on her face. Maika and Kanao had been standing off to the side of the little waiting room they were brought into, Both sharing concerns and looks of their own.

Shinobu breathed.

It's not like this was going to be difficult, Shinobu told herself. Charming people was as easy as drawing a breath to her, It wasn't going to be tough to convince the leader to let them in, At least that's what she hoped.

CREAK!

The sound of a door opening rang out.

Bodies flinched at the piercing sound. Shinobu and Mitsuri had to quickly step a few feet back to avoid the opening doorway. Their eyes widened, Especially once a bald-headed monk stepped out the open-crack.

He cleared his throat, His kindly face observing them.

"Ah, Our guests.. All doing well I presume?" He began, A small smile on his face as he lightly bowed to each one of them. "Our grace is ready to meet you all.. I hope you are all ready to greet him?"

Shinobu and the rest of the group shared a look with each other before glancing back to the man.

"Of course..! We must thank him after all, He is giving us the time out of his assuredly busy day to hear our story..!" Shinobu smiled back at the man, Bowing her head slightly towards him. The man bowed back, Stepping further out into the room.

"Then I'll let you all through, Please, Be respectful once you enter."

With that the doors began to open.

A gust of wind hit their faces, Making them flinch slightly from the way it hit their eyes and moved their hair. Shinobu didn't have any time to focus as she was beckoned forward, The old monk guiding her and the rest of the group into the winding room waiting on the other side.

The lotus scent was almost unbearable here, A singe in their noses as they moved into the hall.

The entire area was lined with archways that reached the ceilings. Water rippling echoed out through the room, Flowing adjacent to the carpeted pathway they moved forward on. Shinobu's smile hardened.

And strangely enough.. It grew colder.

Like snow, The kind that burned at your skin and lingered on your shoulders even after stepping inside. It made a chill run down Shinobu's spine, Whose expression matched the frigid atmosphere around them.

Shinobu breathed out, Her eyes unfocused.

What was going o-

"Ah, Greetings to you all..! You are the travellers, Right?"

A voice called out to them, Echoing across the room.

Shinobu paused, Her eyes stinging from that putrid lotus that infested the air. The group around her- Mitsuri, Maika, Kanao- All of them going deathly silent. Shinobu subtly wiped away the tears boiling in her eyes.

Raising her head.

Heart pounding.

Breath stilling.

Eyes widening.

At the head of the room, Elevated above them on a cushion was a man unlike any she had seen before. Shinobu felt like time itself had stopped as her eyes examined him, Raking over him, Her heart near exploding inside her chest.

He lazed on the cushion like a resting lion, With a solid golden fan fluttering around his face aimlessly. He was dressed in the regalia expected of him. A black ribboned crown decorated in gold- Draped in a matching cloak over his shoulders-

"..You are the travellers requesting sanctuary, Are you not?"

Shinobu didn't hear that voice dripping in friendliness, Not over the ringing in her ears. She didn't focus on his pale hair, Or his even paler skin.

His eyes.

Such colourful eyes..

"…-We are! Yes, I'm sorry.. We're just a bit shaken from our journey- Your grace!" Mitsuri stepped forward, Her eyes darting back and forth between Shinobu and the founder. Her lips raised to form a smile, Bowing before him.

The rest of the girls followed her actions, Bowing down with her. The hand Mitsuri laid on Shinobu's back guided her down too, Her eyes connecting with Shinobu.

Shinobu.

She looked-

"Oh, I understand..! The area around here is quite difficult to navigate, You all must be very tired..!" The man proclaimed with a wide smile, The fan in his hand fluttering around. "Hm.. Not to mention the weather too.. I see.."

The man raised from his position on the cushion, His cloak sweeping behind him as he was gently brought to his feet. The group and the monks surrounding them watched as he bowed back towards them, That smile on his face remaining all the same.

"My name is Douma." The man, Now Douma said as he raised back up to his full towering height. The fan flicked over his mouth to conceal his amusement. "Though I hear you've already picked up on my title- How perceptive!"

Douma.

This man was no man- It was a demon- It was an Upper Moon, There was no doubt about it.

Mitsuri knew that Shinobu knew, She could see it on her face. Mitsuri swallowed, Her eyes filled with concern- Confusion- Fear- All mixed together as she observed the unforeseen reaction upon Shinobu's face.

But she swallowed back her emotions, A smile appearing on her face.

Mitsuri giggled a little, Trying to build some repour between the two.

"Ah- Yes..!" She responded as she happily brushed the hair out of her face, Trying her best not to freeze at the colour in Douma's eyes. Mitsuri raised from her bow along with the rest of the girls, All of them having varying looks on their faces.

Mitsuri swallowed, Her mind racing like a horse.

"..My name is Fujimori Umeko. Me and my sisters were travelling to Fukushima when our carriage broke down.. Ehm.." Mitsuri shook her head slightly, Trying to recollect her thoughts.

Instead she stepped a side, Gesturing to the rest of the girls

"My name's A-Asuna..!"

"..Kariya."

A moment of silence passed between them, Mitsuri glancing towards Shinobu.

"Hina..?"

Shinobu was breaking.

The look in her eyes didn't even seem human anymore, Akin to a body frozen in ice. The smile on her face was stretched to it's limits, Contorted over her muscles and flesh as she stared dead at the floor.

Sweat began to build on her forehead, A vein near popping in her brow. Mitsuri watched with widening eyes as her hand twitched, Reaching, Almost on instinct to the missing holder around her waist.

Douma's head tilted to the side, The fan spread across his face.

"Hina.. You.." Mitsuri's breath near caught in her chest, Her mind trying to comprehend what was happening. Never in her life had she seen Shinobu act like this, Never. Never this strangely- This different- Mitsuri felt like she'd stop working entirely.

Her eyes looked at the narrowing of Douma's, Fingers twitching.

Shinobu's mouth opened.

"Y-You're sick..!" Maika suddenly cut in, Quickly rushing to Shinobu's side. She rested a hand on Shinobu's forehead, Pretending to check her temperature with a skittish look upon her face. "Oh no.. She's burning up!"

Mitsuri blinked- Though quickly shook it off as she turned her attention back towards Shinobu.

"Oh my.. Do you think she caught something while we were travelling..!? It is rather cold outside!" Mitsuri quickly added as she moved a bit further in front of Shinobu, Trying to conceal the look displayed on her face.

They could hear Douma gasp, The fan flicking once more.

"Oh.. You poor thing..!" He exclaimed, His smile instantly turning into frown as he looked them over from where he stood above them. Mitsuri watched as tears already began to form in his eyes, Looking down at Shinobu like an injured dog.

"We.. We're so sorry. We had no idea that she came down with something!" Maika piped up, Her lips shaking as she spoke. "We.. had no idea"

"Oh- Hina.. It doesn't look like a regular cold..!"

"D-Do you think it's something else..? Oh my.."

"Hina.. You've always had such a weak heart..!"

Douma hummed, That expression of hurt and concern still lain upon his face as he stepped away and lowered back onto the cushion. He looked as if he was thinking, Almost processing their words with a heavy lump in his throat.

He listened to the girls converse, His frown deepening.

"Please.. It hurts my heart to see such pretty faces look so distressed!" Douma spoke, His hand raising over his heart, A frown still prominent on his face. All girls but Shinobu looked up at him, Their eyes flicking between each other. "What could I possibly do to assist.. I wonder.."

"W-We just ask if he could stay here- Just until our sister get's better..!" Mitsuri asked, Her voice dripping with desperation and need as she spoke.

Douma chuckled, Cocking his head to the side as his vivid eyes stared into them.

"Ah.. Of course, Who would I be if I did not assist those in need?" Douma spoke as his eyes lingered on Shinobu, Eyelashes fluttering as he rested upon his comfortable throne. "We have plenty of room here.. So I suppose it should be alright!"

Douma's eyes trailed over to some of the monks, The ones that were lingering in between the archways- He beckoned them forward with a single shake of his hand, Wiping away his tears with the other.

"Ah.. Please, Go prepare some of the guest rooms for our visitors..! Make sure to summon one of our doctor's too.." Douma ordered to which the Monks bowed, Turning towards the group of girls. Douma did the same, Looking at them with an understanding expression..?

"T-Thank you- Your grace, It means so much to us..! As soon as our sister gets better we'll get out of your hair..!" Mitsuri called out as the monks in white began to guide them back towards the doors, Shepherding them away, Though Douma's eyes continued to linger.

He giggled slightly.

"Oh no.. Feel free to stay here as long as you like! Enjoy the scenery- The art! Please, Treat yourself as if you're one of our own..!" Douma proclaimed with a smile, Hidden behind his shimmering fan as he watch them be pushed towards the door.

Shinobu could barely move herself, Only let her be dragged along by Mitsuri who tried desperately to keep her act up. Shinobu's fists clenched together, Knuckles almost bursting as she raised her head.

Shinobu gritted her teeth. Their eyes connected through the crack of the door, The one beginning to be pushed closed by the monks.

Douma smiled.

"Enjoy your stay here, Fujimori-san..!"

The door shut closed.

☆♡☆

"Damn.. I'm exhausted."

"At least the mission was easy, Yes~? No second demon to slay or lower moon to run into."

"I suppose so.. Still. I feel like I'm going to pass out at any moment."

The air was cool, The wind gently dusting across their skin, Leaving a faint chill in their wake.

The sky was a dark sea speckled with stars spanning the entire length, Clouds only daring to dust on the horizon now, Watching over the land so far below as the dots of village lights flared in the distance.

Two girls sat together on top of a mountain ledge, Not close to the ground but not yet touching the sky. They leant against the rough trunks of the tree's around them, Leaves swaying in the revitalising wind.

Shinobu's eyes looked out over the ledge, Her fuzzy eyes reflecting the moon and it's shine as she examined the far-away village. Her needle-like sword laid on her lap, Her hand grasping a cloth which she absentmindedly ran over the blade, Washing off the ichor.

[F/N] herself sat adjacent to her, Head resting back against the tree with her knees pulled up to her chest. Her dragon-blue haori flowed in the wind along with her skirt, A blank yet enraptured expression upon her face as she looked up towards the night sky-

Almost longingly.

"Mitsuri-chan should be back soon, So when she is we can start heading to the next village over and we can see if there's any food stalls open, Yes~?" Shinobu asked, Her eyes trailing towards [F/N] with a small smile on her face.

[F/N] nodded, Though her eyes never left the night sky.

"Sure, Sounds good.."

There weren't many words said after that. No, Instead the both of them sat in silence to examine the far off surroundings. Feeling as the wind danced across the entire area, From their hair to their haori's.

Shinobu breathed out for a second, The smile on her face lowering only slightly. Both of them felt rather exhausted, Especially due to the uptick in missions they've all been assigned- It seemed like nowadays they barely had any time to themselves.

Shinobu continued to wipe off what little blood was on her blade, Her eyes enraptured on the way in shone under the moonlight. The way the cloth moved against the nichirin felt practiced, Polished, Like she had done it a thousand times before-

When in reality Shinobu was barely ever able to pierce her blade through flesh, Wet the blade with blood and proclaim herself a completed bounty.

"Shinobu-san, Are you.. Okay?"

[F/N]'s eyes finally looked away from the night, Now staring into the eyes of Shinobu from where she sat. Her expression was softer, The stars above reflecting in the warmth of her eyes.

Shinobu blinked, The smile on her face raising once more as she glanced back towards [F/N]. The question made her cock her head to the side, Looking at her in confusion.

"..Of course I am, Why do you ask?" Shinobu responded as her voice rang out across the cliff's edge. [F/N] stayed quiet for a moment, Her eyes just resting on Shinobu's face, Almost examining it.

But she just slowly shrugged, Pulling her knees closer to her chest.

"It's just.. I have a kind of sense you know?" [F/N] admitted, Almost looking sheepish as she looked at Shinobu. "..I don't really know how to explain it, But I'm good at reading people I suppose. It might just be me, But.. You seem.. Angry, Maybe?"

As soon as the words left [F/N]'s lips, Shinobu stopped moving entirely. Her eyes didn't blink as she continued to stare [F/N] dead in the eyes, Though her own seemed blank, Smile still raised on her face.

But she collected herself soon enough, Blinking, Regaining her composure.

"..Where are you getting that from, [F/N]-chan? I'm not angry right now." Shinobu answered kindly, Keeping her head tilted to the side in question as she looked over at [F/N].

Of whom sighed, Scratching the back of her head.

"It's just.. I guess I can sense it, You know?" [F/N] admitted, Her eyes kept on her fidgeting fingers. "You ever get that feeling, The kind that you can feel throughout your entire body whenever you're around someone..? Like you can sense who they are- Or.. Maybe what they are, Do you know what I'm talking about?"

"No.. I don't think I do." Shinobu answered, Her voice gentle, An eyebrow raised only slightly.

"Oh.. I see." [F/N] muttered, Her knees kept close to her chest.

Shinobu hummed at her response, Eyes trailing back off to the far away specks of the village lights. Though her posture was relaxed, She breathed a little too much out into the air, Her jaw a bit stiff.

"So this sense you have.. It's telling you that I'm angry?" Shinobu questioned, Almost curious in tone.

"Yeah, It has been for a while now." [F/N] responded slowly, As if choosing her words. "I didn't want to ask in front of 'Tsuri, Because as much as she's our friend, She's.. Never really been the best with her words or.. Subtlety."

"Hm, I suppose you're right..!" Shinobu responded, Rather amused? "Mitsuri-chan always has been a bit.. Dramatic?"

[F/N] smiled slightly, Though it came off more awkward than it should have.

"You're my friend too, Shinobu-san. I want you to be happy, I.. Admire you and I only want you to be content with yourself.." [F/N] sighed as she spoke.

Shinobu's eyes however, Perked up.

"Wait- Wait.. You admire. Me?" Shinobu stammered slightly, Letting it slip through as she almost looked taken aback. Her eyes seemed to widen, Not daring to take them off the girl in front of her as if she had heard something.. Outrageous.

A sigh came out from [F/N].

"I mean, Yeah." She responded, As if she was pointing out something obvious. "You're smart, Smarter than I am. You make poisons that could kill so painlessly.. Or aggressively, All depending on how you choose. Besides. You're so good at talking to people, Honestly I wonder how you do it.."

[F/N] trailed off, Her words flowing out of her mouth until they could no more. Her eyes narrowed. Arms tightening around her knees. Shinobu couldn't even speak as she watched her head raise once more.

An awkward, Small smile on her lips.

"You don't need to tell me what's bothering you, Shinobu-san, But you don't need to tell me you're alright either.." [F/N] said, Her eyes connected with Shinobu's. "You're not alone. I know I'm not the best company, Not the best at words or.. Even just being a human being. But if I'm the best you've got right now, Then I'll do my best to listen. Only if you want to, Though.. Okay?"

Shinobu just looked at her, The breeze continuing to brush against her skin. Unblinking. Lips parted only by a slight. It was almost if the world slowed down even just a bit, Just sitting, Looking at each other from across the ledge.

Though Shinobu's eyes lowered, Her smile returning to her face. This time, Perhaps on it's own.

"..Mitsuri-chan is taking her time, Yes? We should go make sure that she hasn't gotten into trouble this time." Shinobu said with a hint of amusement in her voice, Her hand gripping her sword as she dusted herself off and began to get up.

[F/N] paused for a moment, But then nodded and followed her up.

"You're right. It's not like her to stay away this long.." She agreed as she adjusted the blue of her haori over her uniform, Tugged her skirt into place and settled her sword behind her back.

Both nodded, Beginning to make their way down the mountain. Both taking looks at each other when the other didn't.

No words were spoken, None were needed.

☆♡☆

"That was him, Wasn't it- Upper Moon Two..!"

The lotus smell festered like a plague in the air, Nipping at the eyes, The skin.

They had been lead through the halls of the convent, Through the shoji and the scenery. Past tapestries and talismans to be brought to a secluded section, Where they had been introduced to the sleeping quarters reserved for guests.

The group of four had been separated into two rooms, The monks then leaving them to go find a resident doctor for Shinobu's 'illness'. Mitsuri now stood off in the far corner of the room, Next to one of the two beds, Biting her nail in thought.

Mitsuri could barely understand what was happening. They had assumed that Upper Two had to have been feasting on the members, Perhaps was a sort of beast they had sacrificed their devout to- Something that could be considered common for demons, To find a supplying food source.

But for him to be the leader? A devout figure seen as nothing but good?

For him to be the demon, The Upper Moon Two-

"Shinobu-chan.. What.. What happened out there?" Mitsuri asked quietly, Her lips pressing together, Looking at the other woman from across the room with a hesitant eye.

Shinobu stood there at the far end of the room, One hand gripping the vanity, Facing the wall and staring dead into the wood. She just stood there, As still as the air around them. Mitsuri couldn't see her face from where she was, Just the back of her kimono and the hand rested on the table.

Though for some reason, The room grew colder.

More and more frigid by the second.

Mitsuri swallowed.

"..I know it was a demon, Upper Two- But what happened out there- It was like you just froze.. I.. I've never seen you look like that, Shinobu-chan." She continued slowly, Mitsuri's voice delicate as she spoke. Shinobu didn't answer.

"I-It was like I wasn't looking at you anymore, It was like I was looking at an entirely different person.. Shinobu-chan, Please, You need to tell me what happened out there..!" Mitsuri pleaded with her, Her voice quiet as if not to disturb anyone else yet it was desperate.

Shinobu stayed silent.

Mitsuri swallowed, Unsure of what to do.

It was like the entire room stilled. The ember in the lantern dimming, The croaking of the wood abnormally quiet. Mitsuri bit her lip, Knowing that Shinobu was probably in thought, Maybe she just didn't hear her.

Mitsuri took a step forward towards her, The floorboard creaking quietly below her sandals as she neared Shinobu. Mitsuri didn't even notice that she had stopped breathing, Slowly, Reaching her hand out towards Shinobu.

"Shinobu-chan.."

Mitsuri's fingers almost touched the fabric on her shoulder.

"Are you okay?"

…

"Okay?"

Mitsuri yelped out as her hand was roughly shoved off from Shinobu's shoulder. She stumbled back in surprise. Eyes widening as she looked up at her friend.

"Am I.. Okay, Mitsuri..?"

Shinobu's voice was low as she spoke, Her tone sickeningly sweet, Revolting, Enough to make bile spill out of a person's throat.

Shinobu. She looked back at Mitsuri with a smile that was painfully stretched from ear to ear, Her eyes wide and wild looking back at Mitsuri. Teeth gritted together as her expression contorted into a mix between a smile and a snarl.

"I.. I.." Mitsuri stammered over her words as she took a step back, Her shoulders raised to a peak. Shinobu's expression kept dead on her face as Mitsuri tried to figure out what was happening.

"You're asking me.. If I'm okay?"

The room grew colder like winter had found it's way into the room. What was happening? Mitsuri didn't know. Her eyes were unable to look away from the horrific sight that was Shinobu's toothed grin.

"Shinobu.. Chan..?" Suddenly Mitsuri felt like she was a cornered animal. Was she okay? What was wrong? Her smile.. Thoughts ran through her head like the wind outside crashing against the walls. She swallowed.

Mitsuri took a step back.

Shinobu took a step forward.

Before Mitsuri could even process a hand was tugging onto her arm, Grasping it as tightly as it could around her wrist. It was weak, It was frail but Mitsuri felt like it was steel digging into her skin in that very moment.

Shinobu giggled, But it sounded more like a hiss.

"You're so strong, Mitsuri, You know that right?" Shinobu said out of the blue, Her tone so disgustingly saccharine as she looked up into Mitsuri's eyes, Her own capable of melting flesh. "You're so talented, You're so skilled..! You can cut off a demons head just like that, So easily, Like their neck was simply paper.. I'm just so.. Amazed."

Mitsuri listened, Her head shook in confusion. Her breath began to pick up, Feeling her heart thrum in her chest. This was nothing like Shinobu, It was nothing like her at all. It was like looking into the eyes of a stranger-

A stranger that gripped Mitsuri's wrist like she wanted to dig her nails into it.

She swallowed back her unease.

"Shinobu-chan.. W-Where is this coming fro-?"

"You know.. I was never born with such incredible strength." Shinobu cut in, Not giving Mitsuri any chance to speak. "I could never slice a demon's head off like you do. All of that natural born strength.. I guess that's why you're considered one of the strongest Hashira, Right?"

Shinobu took a breath in, Shaky, Unsteady, Looking up at Mitsuri with nothing but wildfire in her eyes.

"You know, No matter how hard I train I'll still be known as the weakest Hashira, The only one whose so useless that they can't even cut off a demon's head!" Shinobu laughed like it was the funniest joke in the world. "You know the rest of the Hashira worked for that kind of physical power, Each and every one of them but.. You were just.. Born with it! Isn't that amazing how you can just look at me and think we're on equal standing..?"

Shinobu praised though it sounded like venom on her tongue, Burning, Acidic in Mitsuri's ears. Mitsuri shook her head, Her head beginning to spin as Shinobu stepped ever closer.

Her grip grew tighter on Mitsuri's arm, But not by much.

"I guess that's why I'm just so amazed by you.. So amazed that someone like you could ask if I'm okay." Shinobu breathed out, Her eyes piercing into Mitsuri's as she looked into them with ire.

"S-Shinobu-chan.. Let go of me-"

"-I mean you've been asking me that question for the past few days, Haven't you? Every. Single. Day." Shinobu laughed, Spitting out every little word like it rotted in her mouth. "Do you know how irritating that is, Mitsuri-chan~? How you keep asking and asking and asking and asking.."

Shinobu continued on as Mitsuri stood in shocked silence, Her lip trembling as she listened to Shinobu's voice crack as if it would break any moment now.

"T-The demon, You know it- Shinobu-chan- Please let go of me, What has gotten into you..-!"

"That thing killed my sister, Mitsuri-chan." Shinobu hissed out now, Not even concealing it as her smile wretched into a scowl.

Mitsuri's breath hitched.

Kanae.

Mitsuri hadn't met her but the stories she had heard were grand, At one point Kanae growing to be known as one of the strongest Hashira of their time. Shinobu had spoke of her sometimes, About her smile- About the way she spoke to people with the upmost kindness in her voice- The way she fought so gracefully on the battlefield.

But never about her death, Never. The topic was always shut down whenever it was brought up. It was figured to be a sore spot for both Shinobu and the Hashira that were old enough to remember her, The newer additions never bothering to ask out of respect.

But now?

"Shinobu-chan- I-I'm so sorry, I didn't know-"

"Don't." Shinobu hissed, Her expression darkening at Mitsuri's words. "Just don't. I don't want to hear your pity for me. It's already insufferable-"

Shinobu scoffed as she let go of Mitsuri's arm, Making Mitsuri stammer back away from her and grip the part where Shinobu grabbed her. Shinobu turned away, Her breath ragged as she paced about the room, Her footsteps hitting against the floor.

Mitsuri felt her hands shake, Trying her best to steady them as she breathed out. Her mind continued to race, Trying to find something, Anything to say to Shinobu- Anything that won't get her cut off or irritate her even further.

Mitsuri swallowed.

"S-Shinobu.. I'm not pitying you, I promise that- We are equal, You are because you're my friend..! You're amazing, You are strong-! Please, You need to listen to me..!" Mitsuri pleaded as she looked at her friend, Someone she has known for years.

Shinobu's laugh was cruel.

"No.. No, Mitsuri.. You don't get it. You don't get how lucky you are, Do you?" She asked, Shaking her head as she approached Mitsuri once more. Her footsteps making the floorboards creak, Making Mitsuri's breath hitch.

Shinobu's smile twitched, Her eyes burning into her.

"You had it good, Mitsuri. No one becomes a slayer because they had it good, Except for you. You never had anyone die in your arms, You never watched your family get slaughtered by demons. Never had to wash their blood out from your hair and still find bits of them under your nails the next morning."

Mitsuri felt tears begin to prickle in her eyes, Feel her lip tremble as she shook her head- Try to find anything to say.

But nothing came out.

Shinobu scoffed at her reaction when she heard no response, Her brow twitching.

"You didn't have it bad, Not like everyone else.. Not like Himejima-san, Not like Iguro-san, Shinazugawa-san- Not like [F/-!" Shinobu cut herself off, Her expression falling, Refusing to finish the name.

Mitsuri's eyes snapped up at the name, The one that made her heart skip a beat and clench all the same. Her eyes glinted with something almost like.. Hesitance, Feeling her stomach turn as Shinobu frowned- Frowned-!

But it quickly fell along with her expression, Slowly shaking her head.

"You didn't deserve [F/N], Neither of us did." Shinobu said quietly, Turning away from Mitsuri now as she looked nowhere in particular within the room. She scoffed. "But you know what Mitsuri..? You were right back then, You should have tried harder. You knew she wasn't doing well and you didn't do anything."

Mitsuri froze at Shinobu's words, Feeling like a punch to the gut made her expression turn crestfallen. She tried her best to keep her composure, To not break down when Shinobu was already doing the same.

But her expression began to crack, Beginning to chip at the edges.

"I-I know, Shinobu-chan, I know." Mitsuri spoke, Her voice gentle and trying it's best to stay levelled. "It's all I can think about, Every second of the day what I could've done to stop all of this. M-M'sorry.. Shinobu- I'm trying. I'm trying my best to make this right."

Shinobu scoffed, Turning around, Her glare burning into Mitsuri.

"Doesn't matter anymore, Mitsuri, Doesn't matter how hard you try. The only reason you're trying so hard to find her now is to get rid of the guilt of her death, Isn't it? But.. [F/N] is dead, And if she isn't- She's a demon by now and would tear either of us limb from limb without a second thought."

She stepped forward, Shinobu's voice grew low.

"The worst part is that I'd let her."

Mitsuri couldn't help but choke out, Tears burning in her eyes and threatening to spill over the edge. And they did. Tears trickling down her face made burns across her cheeks. Mitsuri sniffling only slightly as she listened to Shinobu's words.

They cut so deep, So very deep.

Mitsuri tried not to break as she hugged herself in her kimono.

The flame in Shinobu's eyes began to build once more, Her fallen expression building back up as she looked at Mitsuri with such anger unlike any other. Shaking her head she moved closer.

"She killed herself because of you, Mitsuri. You're the reason she's dead." Shinobu hissed, Her voice aching as she looked dead into Mitsuri's eyes.

"..I-I know." Mitsuri whispered.

Tears continued to spill down her cheeks, Sniffling as her expression broke more and more by the second. Neither of them spoke, Silence except for the small choked sobs under Mitsuri's breath and the ragged breathing of Shinobu.

Both just stared at each other. Shinobu's breathed out, Her eyes shrinking back only slightly as she stepped away from her. She swallowed, Trailing down to look at the floor as her head shook.

"Just.. Get out." Shinobu hissed quietly. "Go tell those.. Those monks that you're allergic to the bedding- Or something.. Just. Just get out of my sight..!"

"S-Shinobu..-!"

"Get out..!" Shinobu butted in once more. Firmer, Louder as she turned away to face the wall- Not wanting to look at her any longer as she stepped back near the corner of the room.

Mitsuri didn't need any more signs as sniffled, Wiping the tears trickling down her face on her kimono sleeve, Trying to steady her breathing. Mitsuri's eyes began to sting as she dragged her feet over to the sliding door.

She gripped the handle, Wanting to say something- Anything to Shinobu. But Mitsuri knew that she wouldn't get the results desired.

So instead she just breathed in, Trying her best not to cry any further as she walked out of the room.

Leaving Shinobu alone, Her expression unseen as the door shut closed.