#platonic rentan

[squilfmybeloved]

me when im forced to read one fic over and over again just for a platonic relationship between two characters because almost everything else portrays them as romantic (im going insane) (just give me big brother kyojuro with the main 4 im begging)

[stormcrowx]

Random thoughts:

In Buddhist philosophy all things are considered illusory and transient. That includes things that mortals make a big deal out of, such as power, wealth and social status. I believe that Gotouge had Tanjiro and Kyojuro reincarnated as the same age for a reason.

Japanese society is very hierarchical, age determines seniority and juniors have to show deference to elders. When they are transformed into Toujuro and Sumihiko at the end, I think that ultimately, that is the way that she intended them to be, or perhaps that is the way that they saw each other. As equals, not master and disciple, junior and senior or elder and younger brother but as kindred spirits. They definitely saw something familiar in each other; twin lights in the darkness that reached out for their missing halves.

I also believe that canonically Kyojuro waited for Tanjiro so that they could be reincarnated at exactly the same time. 😌

[thischachamaru]

Dripping Wax

Summary: A knight and a peasant fight in an arena… there is a punchline. Some mild extortion takes place. In the end, Tanjiro ends up as an apprentice to a knight who doesn’t know what a joke is.

For rntnvillage prompts: chivalry / “yes, my lord”

AO3

Chainmail rattled as Tanjiro leapt sideways, dodging a blood-red axe. He scrambled to his feet, black axe in hand, as the crowd roared around the jousting arena.

His opponent laughed. "Excellent hustle, my boy!" he crowed, amusement clear in his voice. In the shadows of his helmet was a hint of gold, and two burning embers where the eyes would normally be— less of a knight and more of a demon.

Tanjiro gripped his axe tighter. "Thank you very much!" He paused, and added, as an afterthought, "um. Sir."

"You are very welcome!" The knight boomed. "Though, there's no need for such formalities. You may address me as Kyojuro Rengoku!"

"Sir Rengoku," corrected Tanjiro. He shifted back, taking a wide stance, pretending his heart wasn’t shaking. It was one thing, to chop wood. It was another to chop flesh- even if that flesh was covered in armor. “I… wish we had met under different circumstances,” he admitted.

“Hm.” Rengoku tilted his head. His eyes gleamed inside his helmet. “But I rather like this. Don’t you?”

Tanjiro didn’t know what to say to that.

Without warning, Rengoku spun on his heel, axe flashing. Metal connected— screeching past Tanjiro’s chest-plate, sparks flying, before whipping away, just missing the gap in his armor.

Before Tanjiro could so much as gasp, Rengoku pursued him, axe whirling, flashing, slicing— Tanjiro ducking, stumbling, slipping, backwards— until Rengoku slammed him into the fence. The crowd cheered.

A drop of blood plopped onto the mud. Then another. Then another.

“Got you,” huffed Rengoku. He tried pulling away, only to find his weapon embedded in Tanjiro’s axe handle. “Interesting.”

Their eyes locked. Tanjiro bared his teeth.

He wasn’t going to lose.

Tanjiro jerked away, yanking Rengoku with him— then he firmly planted his feet, whipping his head towards Rengoku.

BANG!

Both axes splashed to the ground, splattering mud over their armored boots.

“Got you,” wheezed Tanjiro.

As Rengoku stared, a crack split through his helmet. Bit-by-bit, the crack snapped over the faceplate and the helmet shattered— clanging as it clattered against his armor, to the muddied ground. In the sun, Rengoku’s ember-eyes shimmered like halos. Tanjiro recalled, then, why some men worshipped angels.

The rest of his features were equally bizarre. He had a delicate face with strong brows and bright, sweaty hair, that clung to his features like magma. The air swam around him, bubbling and popping and swaying— the sort of heat Icarus felt when he flew too close to the sun. One second, one moment of happiness.

Then he fell.

Rengoku made a choked noise.

After a long moment, he gathered himself, and shoved Tanjiro over the fence. “A very good fight!” he announced. “Though, being disarmed so easily, I am quite ashamed! Perhaps I should retire, and become a jester, hmm?” The hushed crowd burst into laughter. Rengoku picked up his axe, and twirled it elegantly, before tossing it to a page.

The nobles clapped politely as Rengoku bowed to them, and the crowd again cheered when he made his rounds, showing off an impressive display of archery as Tanjiro dazedly soaked in a puddle. Then, on dismissal, as the next competitors trotted into the arena, he hopped over the fence and squatted next to Tanjiro.

“That was impressive.” He poked Tanjiro in the forehead. “I’ve been training all my life for this. To think, I was defeated by a charcoal farmer… it’s very mortifying, you know!” he poked Tanjiro again, harder. “Regardless. It’s decided! You’ll become my apprentice.”

“Decided… “ Tanjiro blinked, trying to gain his bearings. The world tilted around him, swaying in doubles, “Decided… by who? If you don’t mind me asking.”

“Decided by me! Right now.”

“Just like that?”

“Just like that!”

Rengoku abruptly stood, hauling Tanjiro up, and slamming him into his chest-plate headfirst— denting it.

“Haha! You’ve quite the talent for destruction, don’t you?” teased Rengoku. “Shall I send you the repair bill?”

Tanjiro looked at the ruined armor and nearly sobbed. “I… don’t think I can afford it,” he dourly replied. “I’m sorry.”

“All the more reason to join me!” Rengoku then said. “You’re Tanjiro, are you not? I shall accept your blood, sweat and tears as payment. My word is my bond.”

This seemed more like blackmail than chivalry, but Tanjiro didn’t know enough about chivalry to disagree. “Yes, Sir Rengoku. Okay. But…”

I don’t want to fight, he silently pleaded. Rengoku watched him expectantly. I want to live with my sister. I want to live in peace. But…

In a world like this, that was impossible.

Knowing that, Tanjiro nodded, smiling weakly as Rengoku beamed.

“Very good!” Rengoku clapped a hand on Tanjiro’s back, nearly bowling him over. “To start— I’d like to use your head as a battering ram.”

“E-excuse me?!”

“That was a joke!” Rengoku yanked him closer, pinching Tanjiro between his arm and chest plates. “I hear you commoners like those sorts of things,” he added conspiratorially.

“Sorts of thi—,” Tanjiro stammered. “Do you— not know what a joke is?”

“Hm?” Rengoku did not blink. He did not look at Tanjiro. “Ah, yes. I’m quite familiar!”

“Ah,” nodded Tanjiro, as if he understood. He didn’t. Why would someone lie about that? “I’m just not used to your sense of humor, Sir. You’ll have to tell me more,” he instead offered, as Rengoku cheerily called for some ale.

Just what had he gotten himself into?

[namanyakuning]

At least, aku jadi tahu. Orang yang tadinya biasku pun, tidak sesempurna itu. Dia tetap orang yang sama. Orang yang dulu pernah menyakiti hatiku, dan sekarang terulang lagi.

I think he never really care about me. He just have Superhero Syndrome. He knows I'm a desperate women, sangat rentan dan mudah labil. Mencoba menyelamatkanku tapi malah terjebak disituasi yang salah.

Dari awal memang harusnya aku yang tidak boleh merusak prinsipku. Tapi terlalu percaya omongannya karena menganggap dia biasku. Membawa perasaanku terlalu dalam (lagi). Walaupun dia bilang aku ada tempat spesial di hatinya. Akhirnya yang aku rasakan saat ini cuma perasaan dibuang (lagi).

Oke. Ternyata perasaan 10-12 tahun lalu yang muncul lagi itu sebenarnya mungkin semacam alarm. Perasaanku pun sedang kacau karena proses griefing ku jadi saling bertumpuk. Tidak bisa lagi berpikir logis.

Lagi-lagi posisiku yang salah, berujung meminta maaf, memutus kontak dan pergi. Karena aku akan tetap menjadi orang yang salah. Mau itu 12 tahun lalu atau saat ini. Waktunya tidak pernah pas. Menyalahkan diri sendiri lebih mudah dan cepat. Yup, ternyata aku memang tidak akan bisa berteman dengan mantan.

Mencoba menjadi Platonic Relationship? Terlalu memaksakan. Ternyata sikapnya yang terakhir pun cukup menyakiti hatiku. Kenapa dipertemukan lagi? Mungkin ini closure dari 12 tahun lalu? Mungkin disuruh stop menjadikan dia bias? Ya, memang lebih baik di lupakan lagi. Dikubur kembali. Dan berdoa semoga hidupnya bahagia.

Selesai.

[kyoujurous-eyebrows]

Hello! Hope you are doing fine! Can I get a fluffy story with demon Tanjirou and Rengoku where Rengoku is comforting Tanjirou who is really anxious and depressed because his demon slayer sister was hurt, and hasn't woken up yet. from Ren pov, platonic or romantic, whichever inspires you more. Thank you so much!

It’s time to finally give you that sweet, sweet RenTan that you’ve been waiting patiently for

Hope it’s okay that I wrote in third person instead of from Rengoku’s, it works better with my writing style :)

She’ll Be Okay (RenTan)

M/M

Demon!Tanjiro AU

Fluff

Words: 979

Wandering down the halls of the Butterfly Estate, Rengoku Kyoujurou seemed to not have a care in the world, however upon closer inspection you could tell he was actually walking with a purpose. This purpose was dragging him towards the medical ward, where he opened the wooden sliding door to reveal a sleeping figure in a bed, and a small form curled up next to it. Rengoku stepped quietly over to the curled form and placed a steady hand on his back.

“Tanjiro my boy, you needn’t worry so much. Nezuko-san is a strong individual, she’ll wake up soon.” The red-haired boy uncurled himself and looked up at the fiery man with unshed tears brimming in his eyes. The pale moonlight filtering through the windows made Rengoku think he had never seen something so beautiful and sad. The demon boy quietly hopped off the bed and wrapped his arms around Rengoku’s waist. The Flame Hashira reciprocated immediately and calmly stroked the boy’s hair.

“Let us go for a walk. Try and relax, she’ll wake up soon.” He cooed at the smaller form that was tightly wrapped around him. He felt more than saw Tanjiro nod and soon they were quietly leaving the medical ward to roam the moonlit gardens. Rengoku stopped in front of one of the large willow trees and with a wink at Tanjiro, jumped up onto the sturdiest looking branch.

“Come join me my boy! The view is wonderful from up here!” Tanjiro mimicked Rengoku’s movement and was soon sitting on the same branch as him. The Flame Hashira beckoned Tanjiro towards him and when he was within reach, pulled him quickly to sit back against his chest. Tanjiro made a startled noise through the bamboo muzzle on his face as he looked up into Rengoku’s face. The sadness hidden in those reddish eyes made the Hashira’s heart ache. He cupped the smaller boy’s face and placed a kiss upon his forehead. The demon blushed at that and tried to look away, but Rengoku wouldn’t let him.

“Tanjiro, I may have only known you and your sister for what feels like a short period of time now, but I know better than anyone how strong you two are. You have an unbreakable bond that she won’t let some pesky wounds break!” He let go of the boy’s face at this and ruffled his hair. “Have confidence, what will she think about you fussing over her wounds so much that you aren’t taking proper care of yourself hm?” A teasing tone slipped into Rengoku’s words, and Tanjiro stiffened up for a moment. He hadn’t realised his partner had caught onto his sneaking around.

“You can’t fool me, my little demon. I know you need sleep to keep your strength up, and I don’t think you’ve gotten any in the past week. Am I correct?” Tanjiro looked over his shoulder at Rengoku, who had this closed eye smile on his face, and he looked like he was straining himself back from something. Not wishing to answer, Tanjiro tries to scurry off, but the Flame Hashira is just slightly faster and grabs the boy by his checkered haori before he can disappear. Pulling him back towards him, he onslaughts the younger male by tickling his sides relentlessly. Tanjiro is making noises that sound like a mix of laughter and discomfort, but Rengoku does not let up.

“Is the good little demon going to take proper care of himself, hm? If not, this Hashira is going to have to slay him…” He pauses his hands for a moment, letting the poor boy breathe, before he starts up again, “with tickles!” Rengoku is laughing while the boy squirms around, trying to free himself from the Hashira’s torture. The movement of both of them causes them to lose their balance and they go tumbling out of the tree. Rengoku is quick to grab Tanjiro and pull him into his chest just before they impact on the ground beneath them. Apparently Total Concentration Breathing has multiple uses, as the wind is barely even knocked out of the passionate man who is currently laughing up a storm while the demon boy is stunned into silence.

Tanjiro escapes his grasp and starts smacking the man still laying on the ground in defiance. “I know, I know, I’m sorry! But you seem to be doing better now, aren’t you? The sadness isn’t clouding your beautiful eyes anymore!” The demon boy pauses as his face goes pink with embarrassment and he looks away. This behaviour only causes Rengoku to laugh even more, fondness coating his voice.

“How about we come up with something to make for your sister when she wakes up? I’m sure she’ll love receiving a get-well gift from her amazing elder brother!” Rengoku states, moving from his prone position to standing in one fluid motion, his hand held out to Tanjiro who is staring up at him with glee shining in his eyes. “Only after you get some proper rest though.” Rengoku laughs at the boy’s cute pout and picks him up bridal style, carrying him all the way back to the room given to him by Shinobu.

The warmth radiating from Rengoku as well as his comforting and familiar scent made Tanjiro feel drowsy. The elder man was right, he really needed some rest. The boy had fallen asleep in the slayer’s arms before they had even reached the room and it took all of Rengoku’s self-restraint to not kiss him right then and there. Placing the boy in the bed and tucking him in, he placed a kiss atop his forehead on the scar before leaving with a soft ‘I love you.’

[mysaldate]

Hello! I'm back with an ask for the fluff alphabet! Please write N, Q, R, E for RenTan! Thank you!

Let's go with the ships! Just to make this clear, I'm still only doing one hc per letter. If you'd like more details, feel free to request ship hcs apart from the alphabets.

Again, please assume Tanjiro is appropriately aged-up.

Fluff Alphabet with RenTan

E — Equal

Rengoku is the more dominant one in the relationship, though it's far from being actually visible. They both fill-in with each other's shortcomings and are incredibly supportive of each other. It's just that Tanjiro doesn't have the amount of raw beaming energy Kyojuro bubbles with and shows his affection in a much gentler manner.

N — Nicknames

Kyojuro calls Tanjiro either "My love" or "My sun" with occassional variations on the two. He tried other things too but they didn't sound that good to him. As for Tanjiro, he doesn't have a nickname to call his partner but rather prefers to use his name. He always manages to pour enough love into it that nothing else is necessary.

Q — Quirk

Both of them, but Kyojuro especially, are very warm so they like to cuddle on cold winter evenings. They also take long walks even in cold weather, content with just holding each other's hand in their own. It gives them a special layer of privacy since nobody is usually out at the times they are. They have the whole world for themselves.

R — Romance

Neither of them is necessarily romantic. They are just fine with platonic gestures of affection and occassional kisses. However, when it comes down to it, Rengoku takes charge in this account as well. He's a little cringy at times, cliché and a bit predictable but his beaming energy just makes it irresistable in spite of that. And Tanjiro loves everything his ditzy boyfriend is doing anyway.

[ketsuyuki-hibana-typed]

Hello again! I have not account here, but I am the one, who ask you to write "Pregnant headcanons" and "Demon Train Arc Alter. End". When I've read your big post yesterday I become mad! No! Not mad...Furious! How people could be such jerks?! They have no idea what people like you doing! As you say " If you do not like it - GO AWAY!" Please, do not pay attention to those people. Your writings are beautiful! They gladden, warm and even heal kokoro ( Thank you once more for saving Kyo-сhan's life!)

Hi!!

Sometimes, I choose not to be inside a fandom, especially big series like BnHA, Naruto, and others because there will be always assholes inside them. Unlike those days before fandom existed, I really enjoy all anime/manga the creators made.

Most people didn't know what are these fan creators going thorough to make arts/writes or anything that could be considered as 'Act for being a fan'

I'm fully aware on how I reach these audiences. Like I said before, I couldn't 'protect' you guys eyes from what I made especially NSFW one from minor ages by citrus tags. People have different tastes and I fully understand that.

And it has something to do with ships and genres too.

I don't like underage romantic relationship between ships like RenTan, UzuZen, GiyuTan or else BUT I love them when they are platonic. I like how Gotouge portraited Rengoku as Pillar who really cares about the trio Kamaboko, how well Uzui 'handling' Zenitsu whining, how Giyuu wanted to protect Tanjirou and Nezuko (184 still got me). Not in romantic way, but just pure act between the older person towards the young one. I'm not fully support these ships, I'm just okay with it if it's not in romantic way. They care, they protect, that's it!

What can you say? It's canon that Tanjirou leans on Rengoku shoulder while he sleeping on train arc. But does that mean they are in love in romantic way? NO.

It's canon that Giyuu stepped out to protect Tanjirou and Nezuko from Shinobu's attack. Giyuu also said that he will never let anyone passed him and protect Tanjirou while fighting with Akaza. Is that a sign that Giyuu is Tanjirou's boyfriend and he's being pedophile? I think the fuck not.

Does that mean Hibana is a pedophile because she love the platonic one? Of course not, you fucking dipshits (Not you Anon, I love you).

Liking and writing Upper Moons and Muzan cause you to be a problematic? NO

Mitsuri's cleavage and Inosuke bare chest made Gotouge a pedophile? NO

Cosplaying Nezuko in Black skin cause Nezuko to be out of character? NO

Making MVs about siblings made us incest lover? NO

At this rate, we are going have that one person who accused us as pedophile because we're saying 'You're so cute' to a baby.

I'm not okay with the genre I hate, but I never said rude things to those who made them or even made gossips about them FOR FUCKING LIKES, APPROVAL COMMENTS, RETWEETS, OR REBLOGS. I simply act 'Oh my, not my teas, bye bye' and block the artists or authors who draw/write things I don't like. God, don't you have something better to do irl? (Not you Anon, I love you). It's really easy for someone to accuse them for being bad these days.

Just because a ship or headcanons being popular, doesn't mean it became canon unless the creator made changes and stated so.

Like, stop. These kind of person act like they are SJW but in the end, they just made this big fandom worst. Because they didn't give explanation what to do next to avoid something they don't like but at the same time, keep accusing people on those genres they don't like (I'm still mad at people who said that Black People couldn't cosplay, do they really think Japanese has pure white skin?)

Also, a reminder, I'm rambling not because I'm capable from stop these things completely. I'm just letting out what I felt being in multifandoms and a multishippers.

Set the boundaries. Clear your minds. If you don't have something nice to say or something that could fix the problem, shut the fuck up. That's all.

Like I said before, if you don't like it, filter tags, scrolled pass, block them!!

*me, trying to hold anger and smile like nothing happened*

Oh my God, look, I'm rambling again. Thank you Anon for liking my stories!! Here's loves for compensation after reading my ramblings

[thischachamaru]

Hi❤️❤️❤️

These can be kny, or if you'd prefer other thats totally fine too!!❤️❤️ for the writers ask!!

🍒 What’s your favorite character dynamic to write? (Can be romantic or platonic, specific or general!)

🍍 What kind of AUs do you like? Are there any AUs you hate or just generally have beef with?

🍈 Who’s your blorbo and what are some of your favorite headcanons/ideas about them that repeatedly show up in your fics? Free pass to rant about blorbo opinions.

Thank you for the ask!!

🍒

Honestly that’s tough, but I think I tend to like lord and knight OR assassin vs bastard dynamics…? I suppose RenTan qualifies as the former, because neither are the assassin-bastard type 🤔

I DO like DouShino though… 🤔🤔🤔🤔🤔

🍍

I like all kinds of AUs, but I tend to gravitate towards romantic ones… usually involving fantastic creatures or monsters. I’m surprised I haven’t written too much for rntn… but I do have a couple kami AUs in WIP 🤔

I generally can’t stand harem AUs… I’m a big multishipper but I like to focus on one ship at a time 😂

🍈

My blorbo varies from week to week but in terms of KNY, it’s currently Douma who is breasting boobily through my head. I haven’t written any fics with him yet… but, I like to headcanon that he’s a fan of RenTan. Because I said so 🤣

Tysm for the questions!!!

From this ask game

[thischachamaru]

🍎🍒 🍍🍈🫐

Thank you for the ask, anon!

🍎 Is there anything you straight-up won’t write?

Non-con, I think? I’m not interested in exploring it.

🍒 What’s your favorite character dynamic to write? (Can be romantic or platonic, specific or general!)

Answered in previous ask.

🍍 What kind of AUs do you like? Are there any AUs you hate or just generally have beef with?

Answered. Also, I really enjoy AUs in the canon-setting with minor changes that affect the whole story!

🍈 Who’s your blorbo and what are some of your favorite headcanons/ideas about them that repeatedly show up in your fics? Free pass to rant about blorbo opinions.

Answered. Also Shinjuro and his thighs are living in my heart rent-free 😔

🫐 What’s your favorite underrated thing in your fandom? (A ship that only you seem to write for, a character there’s almost no fics about, a trope that criminally hasn’t been written yet, etc.)

🤔

I’d say DouShino is really underrated in the western fandom, even more so than RenTan which is super surprising.

But RenTan itself needs more love than it gets 🥺 so I’m here to give it all the adoration it deserves! 🤗

[thischachamaru]

For Whom the Bells Toll

For RenTanWeek, Day 3: Recovery

Summary: After fighting Akaza, Kyojuro wakes up at his family home- alive!

He and Tanjiro make a promise for the future.

READ ON AO3

Art commissioned from @lupinchopang27.

If you like it, please follow and support them!

🌻

Rengoku jolted awake.

Pale glass bells chimed in the window, shining blue in the afternoon, and scattering light over the ceiling. The paper walls, decorated with swirling dragons and roaring tigers, looked set to devour him.

Somewhere nearby, Senjuro swept, bristles swishing back and forth against the wood as surely as Rengoku swung his sword. Farther away, his father grumbled, arguing with someone—likely, an envoy—about this or that.

This was the Rengoku estate. He was alive. His mother was dead. There were no ghosts here.

It must've been a dream.

Concentrating on his breathing, he poked and probed his wounds, enduring each wince and grimace. Bandages covered the left half of his head, completely obscuring that half of his vision, as well as the majority of his torso, concentrating on a hole in his side, wrapped so tightly that it made moving difficult.

Each inhale set his nerves on fire, and each exhale stoked the flames higher, and higher. Still, he breathed, deeper and deeper, pushing air to his muscles.

Shakily, steadily, Rengoku fisted his bedding, dragging himself into a seated position. More than once, he nearly passed out from the pain.

If the other hashira were there to see his condition…

“I would surely die of shame!” he yelled.

The entire estate fell silent. A crow cawed.

Then, thunder stomped through the halls—

—boom, boom, BOOM!

BOOM!

Tanjiro burst through the screen door. “Rengoku!”

“There is no need to shout!” Rengoku shouted—then paused. “Young Kamado. I did not expect to see you here! Destroying my family home, no less. How is your wound?”

“That’s—“ Tanjiro sucked in a deep breath. He was scraped all over, eyes red and swollen. “I’m really truly sorry. I heard you, and I—well, I wasn’t thinking,” he admitted, making a silent promise to fix it later. “More importantly, how are you?”

“Hmm!” Rengoku crossed his arms. “Everything hurts! And I’ve gone blind—in one, yes, one eye! I do not know how I will live with myself,” he laughed, as if it was all one great joke.

Tanjiro bit his lip, and said nothing.

“At any rate.” Rengoku abruptly changed the subject, “I am glad to see you well. You too, Senjuro. What’s with that face?”

Out in the hall, Senjuro froze. He sniffed loudly at the question, choked with emotion, and shook his head quickly.

“Rengoku, please worry more about yourself,” Tanjiro gently chided.

“I worry just enough,” Rengoku retorted, “for example- right now, I am worrying about my training. How long have I been asleep?”

“Not long enough,” Tanjiro furrowed his brow. “You nearly died!”

“Did I now!” Rengoku boomed, mouth curved upwards. “What a blunt way to address a hashira!”

Tanjiro flushed. “I—“ he caught himself. “I’m sorry. Again.” He ducked his head in guilt.

Rengoku blinked. “Ah?”

Senjuro finally piped up, “Tanjiro, it’s okay. He —doesn’t mean anything by it,” he said, voice small. He glanced around nervously, before stepping over the wreckage of the door, urging Tanjiro towards Rengoku’s bed. “It’s fine. Sit!”

“Really? I don’t mind standing,“ Tanjiro protested, only to acquiesce shortly after. Nonetheless, he knelt next to Rengoku, in seiza—spine ramrod straight, and palms sweating, while Senjuro fluttered about, tidying up the room.

Rengoku paid them no mind. Instead, he was alert, looking back and forth for someone that was not there.

Father was a private man. Perhaps he’d visit when no one was around. Or maybe he wouldn’t. He had made his opinions of Rengoku’s chosen vocation quite clear, after all:

Pointless. A waste of time.

Still, Rengoku waited, and waited, and waited. The longer he waited, the more he dwelled on the issue; and the more he dwelled on it, the more bitter he became.

He had long carried this disappointment with him- it was a constant companion. Up mountains and down valleys he trudged, with it on his back. With each step, it grew heavier, and heavier, until he was scaling a cliff with a boulder tied to him, knowing that, any second, he could slip, and be crushed.

That was fine. If he died, then he’d die, and that was that. He’d die with honor, imagining that—at least, his father might attend his funeral.

Only, he lived. He lived, and the disappointment became a mountain, pinning him to a bed like a bug.

It was, truly…

… a horrible feeling!

Tanjiro’s nose twitched.

“Um…” he started, brow furrowed in concern. “Rengoku, is there anything we can get you? You look…”

—upset.

“—pale,” he fumbled. Which wasn’t untrue.

“I…” Rengoku faltered, swallowing a sudden wave of nausea. He slapped on a reassuring face. “One moment!”

Veins bulged through his arms—Rengoku doubled over, and gagged.

Tanjiro rushed to help him upright, while Senjuro leapt to his feet. “I’ll go get water!”

He darted out of the room, nearly crashing into someone.

Shinjuro cocked his head, his expression unreadable. A bottle dangled from his fingers, sloshing with a sweet-smelling sake, so pungent it made Tanjiro’s hair stand on end.

Senjuro scrambled into a bow. “Father! I—“

“Clean up this mess,” he gruffly said.

There was a beat.

“Yes, father,” Senjuro bowed again. He hesitated, hastily adding, “please go see him.”

He rushed off before Shinjuro could reply, socks padding quietly against the floor. Then, the smell of dulcet sake began to fade: He had also left.

Tanjiro winced.

That was… harsh.

I don’t know what to say . Tanjiro thought. He abruptly realized he was still supporting Rengoku. Heat radiated from the flame hashira, sweat wicking through his yukata, to the palms of Tanjiro’s hands.

Rengoku did not seem to notice at all. His eyes were wide with the strain of holding in his stomach. But when Tanjiro tried to get him to lay down, Rengoku brushed him away.

“I—am fine !” His ever-present smile flickered on and off, like a small flame in a monsoon. The hashira held up a finger. “One more moment, please!”

It was really admirable. Even in despair, he kept pushing on.

“Ah, okay.” Tanjiro reluctantly released him, sitting back on his feet. It’s really none of my business, but…

He stared sourly at his lap, curling and uncurling his fists. A strange feeling bubbled inside him, simmering and boiling; it filled his lungs with steam, and his chest with fire.

Tanjiro exhaled. Don’t cause any more trouble, he told himself, and shoved that strange feeling away, flashing his teeth. “Senjuro is really a wonderful brother, isn’t he?”

“Hm?” Rengoku wiped his mouth with the back of his hand. “Ah, yes. I am very proud.”

“He reminds me of my sister.” Tanjiro said softly, looking everywhere but Rengoku. From the door, to the blanket, to the window—he glanced outside, at the cherry blossoms, and felt his throat clench. “Hanako. She… always stood up for me, even when I didn’t need it. She was very—kind.”

Then Tanjiro fell silent, picking at his sleeve.

Maybe he had overstepped. Going on and on about his past like that—when the hashira was in such a condition— it was… definitely too much. Yet, he couldn’t keep quiet.

“I miss her, every day.” His voice cracked. “All the time. All of them…”

Salt stung his eyes. He sniffed loudly.

Rengoku waited for Tanjiro to continue. When that did not happen, he took control of the conversation.

“It’s simple. You are her older brother. Her kindness comes from your example.”

His reply was quiet. More quiet than Tanjiro had ever heard him be, and very nearly—sweet wasn’t the right way to describe it. But it was warm. It was gentle. It made his heart ache and flutter.

“And, young Kamado—“ Rengoku loudly added, making his blood jump. “—her kindness will live on through you. Of this I have no doubt!”

“You—“ Tanjiro cleared his throat. “Thank you. That’s very,“ kind, he almost said. “Thoughtful. Of you. To say. Um.” His tongue twisted and tripped. “It—well, it really cheered me up.”

“Mm!” Rengoku nodded and nodded. “Certainly!”

Suddenly, it felt like Tanjiro had eaten all the butterflies from Shinobu’s gardens. Then Rengoku’s smile pulled into a wider grin, and they were set ablaze.

“Train with me!” Rengoku brightly demanded.

Tanjiro immediately bristled. “Absolutely not!” he yelled. “Get some rest!”

Rengoku’s expression did not change. “Eh?”

“Respectfully, sir,” Tanjiro began. He clenched his fists, knuckles whitening, “I refuse. I won’t train with you. Not until… you are cleared by a doctor!”

Rengoku considered this for all of a second. “That is acceptable!”

“Then, we can train whenever you want! And, also…” Tanjiro coughed.

“And also?”

“I won’t become your tsuguko!”

Rengoku blinked. EH!?

“That’s what I’m here to tell you!”

“HA!” Rengoku guffawed incredulously. “You are so rude!”

“I’m sorry!” Tanjiro yelled. “Let me explain—“

Rengoku waved him off. “It’s fine. I like it!”

Each word was like an arrow to the heart:

I—LIKE—IT.

Tanjiro very nearly died.

“I still want to explain!” he protested, as Rengoku laughed, and laughed. “I have a very good reason. I do!”

“Which is?”

“It—“ Tanjiro inhaled, bracing himself. “It’s because- tsuguko are trained to replace hashira who fall in battle. You… cannot be replaced! So I’m sorry! But I can’t.”

With that, he set aside his katana, and bowed deeply, pressing his hands, then forehead, to the floor. The wood was cold, but he pressed on, eyes squeezed shut. “I won’t let anyone die for my sake.”

There was nothing to add to that.

For perhaps the second time in his life, Rengoku was stunned speechless. For this low rank to dare say such a thing—to him! The flame hashira!— it had to be a joke.

And yet Rengoku did not laugh. He tried, and his tongue turned to lead, humor slipping from his face, and splattering into his lap.

In just a few short sentences, Kamado Tanjiro had bared his soul, and then threw himself at the feet of an injured man, and then did not move— not to fidget, or take it back—or to shout a hasty, kidding!

If it was a joke, it was certainly… not a good one.

Crossing his arms again, Rengoku narrowed his eyes, brows creased in concentration. Tanjiro kept his head firmly planted on the ground, and waited.

He heard bells ring, clear and beautiful, just outside the window. Somewhere nearby, a bird cawed. Soon enough, he would be on another mission, fighting other demons, with other comrades. Naturally, some would die, and some would live; such was life, and being human. In the long run, it did not matter how Rengoku responded.

“What a foolish thing to say.”

Tanjiro flinched. A single bead of sweat rolled over his neck, beading at the edge of his jaw. It shimmered.

“Alright then.”

It was like lightning shot through him. Tanjiro’s eyes widened, shimmering with emotions. “Alright…?”

“I have decided-“ Rengoku lifted his chin, and bellowed- “I won’t die!”

Tanjiro scrambled to all fours, half-slipping on the sheets, sword kicked somewhere unimportant. He barely managed to catch himself from face planting. “Just like that?!”

“Mm!” Rengoku nodded sharply, looking straight ahead. “You, young Kamado, are my junior. If I died under your protection, it would surely weigh on my conscience in the afterlife.” This he declared as casually as discussing the weather. “So! I won’t die. And that’s that.”

Pro…. tection?

When did Tanjiro say that he’d—

—never mind. That’s not important!

Tanjiro deflated with a relieved sigh, folding himself into a more respectful seiza.

“Really?” He brightened. “I’m so glad. Then- you’ll get some rest?”

Rengoku answered, “Regrettably!”

“And we’ll train later!”

“Of course! But!” Rengoku’s mouth sharpened into a v, and he flashed into Tanjiro’s face, hair bouncing. “I’ll have you know, I get into a lot of trouble. You have your job cut out for you!”

“Uh-“

What is that supposed to mean!

Rengoku threw his head back. “HA! HA! HA!”

…a joke? Right…

Tanjiro chuckled nervously. “I’ll do my best!”

If Rengoku wanted his protection…

He gripped his hakama tightly.

Then he would! To the end. No matter what!

That said…

“Rengoku, you’re hurting, right?” Tanjiro cut off the hashira’s awkward laughter. It was obvious: A weak iron scent slithered around Rengoku, concentrating around his wounds. Likely, reopened.

“If I’m being honest, I’m really exhausted right now.” Tanjiro smiled sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck. “So, why don’t we both get some rest? I’ll come by in the morning, and run through some drills. Is that okay with you? That way, you won’t get bored.”

Rengoku observed Tanjiro for some time, his stare wide and unblinking. Whatever he saw, it was enough, and he snapped towards the garden instead, gold eye dancing with glass bells.

“…as you’d like!” he nonchalantly replied, mouth quirked in amusement. “I won’t stop you.”

“That’s very kind!” Tanjiro nodded, “I appreciate it!”

But he did not move to go.

Permission or not, it was rude to leave without saying goodbye, and, right now, he didn’t want to do that. So Tanjiro hummed, and turned towards the garden.

So what if it hurt to smile. So what if he was covered with cuts and bruises, and could barely breathe, thanks to the hole in his stomach.

He was happy. He was really, really happy- so happy, he wanted to shout:

Rengoku is alive! Rengoku is alive! Rengoku is alive!

At that point, Senjuro hurried into the room, juggling some cups, a jug of water, and fresh bandages, nearly tripping over a tray of food by the ruined door.

“When did this get here…” he mumbled. They hadn’t had servants for years, and, of the two Rengoku sons, only Senjuro was allowed in the kitchen. Unless…

He blinked. It couldn’t be.

“Oh, Senjuro!” Tanjiro brightened. “There you are!”

“Oh! Um,” Senjuro wavered near the wrecked door. “Hi.” His eyes flickered towards Rengoku and Tanjiro, then dropped to the floor. “I—interrupted.”

“Nonsense!” Rengoku boomed. “Come on in!”

“You’re…” Senjuro edged closer. “Feeling better, brother?”

“I am!”

Senjuro sighed. “That’s good, at least.”

Rolling up his sleeves, Senjuro set everything down and fell to his knees, shuffling closer to Rengoku’s bed. He served them each a cup of water, which Tanjiro gratefully accepted. Rengoku guzzled his, and demanded, “another!”

Senjuro complied.

“Apologies for the wait,” he mumbled, glancing again at Tanjiro. “I had to- send for medicine…”

Tanjiro jumped up. “Let me help!”

“You don’t mind?”

“Not at all!”

“In that case… would you mind getting that tray over there?” Senjuro shakily managed a smile, matched by Rengoku’s brighter one. “We can eat together.”

“Are you sure?”

“Please, do!”

The tray was set with three bowls of rice, chopsticks, and an iron pot with a savory-honeyed fragrance spilling out from under the lid that made his mouth water. Curry, likely—he sniffed. Beef, with … yam? A strange choice.

Closing his eyes, he inhaled the sweet steam of rice vinegar, thinking briefly of home, his mother, and Hanako.

He made sure to give Rengoku a heaping serving of the curry, then Senjuro, and Rengoku again. What little remained went to him, with a cheerful excuse that he was expected at the wisteria house for dinner, probably. That lie earned Tanjiro a sharp glance from Rengoku. His cheeks burnt red.

Tanjiro clapped his hands together.

“Thank you for this meal!” they all announced, before digging in.

“This looks amazing!” Tanjiro said. “Senjuro, did you make this?”

“No, I just found it…” he looked embarrassed. “Is that okay?”

“More than okay! It’s—“ Tanjiro gulped down some meat “—so good!”

“Mm!” Rengoku agreed, plopping a piece of yam into his mouth. His eye widened, dancing with delighted stars. “Tasty!” He ate more. “Tasty!” And more. “Tasty!”

They were careful, well-mannered bites, that savored the warm and buttery flavor, melting on the tongue, throat bobbing as he swallowed.

Tanjiro gulped. Then he stuffed himself with more rice.

Nothing special. Nothing weird. He was just- hungry. That’s all.

The brothers made small talk through the meal, Senjuro meek where Rengoku thundered, carrying the conversation as easily as a blade, praising the food all the while; but, as the conversation went on, Senjuro gained his confidence, nodding vigorously, and Rengoku softened, delightedly listening to him talk.

Just like in battle, he knew when to advance, and when to retreat. It was really quite outstanding.

His stomach flopped uncomfortably.

Tanjiro set his chopsticks down. “All done!” he smiled. “Is there anything else I can help with?”

“No, no,” Rengoku waved him off, while Senjuro stammered, “actually-“

They looked at each other. “Ah?”

“Well-,” Senjuro squirmed, shoulders inching towards his ears. “I… am not good with blood. And the doctor clearly instructed, ‘his bandages must be changed often.’ But, when I try,” he shrugged, uselessly.

“Last time, we made my injuries worse,” Rengoku helpfully added, “not to worry! You did your best!”

“…like I said, I want to help,” Senjuro continued, “But it’s better that I don’t.”

“I’m great with blood!” Tanjiro blurted. Wait… “That is- I bleed a lot! Professionally! Um, that’s not quite right…”

I’ve seen too many corpses to flinch now, was what he meant to say. Please let me help you!

“Ha!” Rengoku laughed. “What a coincidence! I also get wounded quite frequently!”

Senjuro mumbled, ”please don’t brag about that…”

It was too late to back down. “So you understand!” Tanjiro shouted. “I’m glad to be of assistance! Please let me strip you.”

“…”

“Of course!” And Rengoku went to untie his yukata.

Tanjiro stared, then clambered to pull it away.

Senjuro quickly stood. “I’ll... go now.” Their used dishes clattered in his arms. “—clean. And get, um. Tea?”

“Yes please!” Rengoku beamed. Tanjiro leaned into him, struggling to get the sleeves past Rengoku’s elbows. Senjuro hurried to bring them a clean rag and bucket of water, and left just quickly.

His shoulders… are so broad! Apologizing to the sky, Tanjiro shoved his face into Rengoku’s chest, grappling at the yukata, hitching it up, and down. The hashira stayed still as he worked, moving only when instructed.

He really was the perfect patient.

Cloth flopped onto Rengoku’s lap, revealing taut muscles wrapped in white gauze, splotched with dark spots where some scabs had cracked open.

Unbidden, Tanjiro reached forward, thumb slipping under the bandage, and tracing along the edge. It didn’t look like the bleeding had spread too far, but…

Rengoku tensed.

When he was a child, after training, father had ruffled his hair, and teased him for his impatience.

“Father!” he had huffed and stomped. “I want a real sword. I’m ready!”

”Is that so?” Father, then, knelt to his level. “Then, let me tell you a secret. Don’t tell anyone else. Understand?”

“Yes, father!”

Father put a finger to his mouth, and shushed him. Kyojuro snapped his mouth shut. His round gold eyes went round and wide, as the older Rengoku looked left, right, and left again.

Then Kyojuro was tossed up into the air, thrashing and shrieking, before father caught him, laughing, and twirling him in circles. “I love you! I love you!”

But that was long ago.

It had been many years since anyone had held him like this- searching and shy, careful and cautious, as if he were something fragile, or precious. Not even his mother had coddled him so—no matter how much he wished for it—saying that swords were forged in fire, not charity.

Tanjiro was so gentle, it hurt.

Shoving away his thoughts, Rengoku glanced towards him. “You’re very red,” he observed. Tanjiro bristled.

“I—was wondering about your training regiment,” he half-lied.

“That?” Rengoku hummed. “I only teach my tsuguko that. Unless you’ve changed your mind?”

“Absolutely not!”

Rengoku threw his head back. “Ha! Ha!”

Tanjiro became even redder, if that was possible. Ducking low, he busied himself with his work, gingerly peeling the bandages away from the hashira’s front and back. Rengoku sat there stiffly, raising his arms when Tanjiro nudged him, apologizing.

“I’m not the best doctor,” he sheepishly admitted.

“Is that so!”

“But, you’ve done so much for me,” Tanjiro said, pressing a cotton cloth to Rengoku’s side. “—please hold this.”

“Of course!” he obliged.

“So, I’m glad I can help, even if it’s only a little,” Tanjiro said, peeking up at the flame hashira. He then smiled sadly, making Rengoku choke.

Fine! This was fine. He was fine!

Ha! Ha! Ha…

“Young Kamado!” he suddenly exclaimed. “If not for you, I would not be here at all.”

“Hah?”

“So!” Rengoku poked Tanjiro’s forehead. “There’s no need for such an expression!”

“Is there something wrong with my face?” he crossed his eyes at Rengoku’s finger. “Um…”

“Absolutely!” Rengoku jabbed Tanjiro again, harder. “Hold your head up high! And,” the hashira clapped his shoulder. “Take pride in your work, my friend. You have earned it!”

“Ah, thank you,” Tanjiro stammered. “That’s very kind of you to say.”

“You are welcome!” Rengoku beamed again, and gestured towards himself. “Please, continue!”

“Right!”

Tanjiro tugged off the last of the bandages, thumb brushing against the dried blood. Pain flashed across his eyes—the same sad expression as before.

This time, Rengoku did not admonish him.

Feeling sympathy, being pitied… these emotions, as uncomfortable as they made him, were simply part of being human.

“I think…” Tanjiro slowly began, rolling the vowels over his tongue. He fiddled with the rag Senjuro gave him, dabbing it Rengoku's skin, gently washing away the blood. “I think- Rengoku is a very caring person, who is considerate of others. But, he doesn’t always consider himself. He… that is, you… work hard to protect others, and sometimes, that’s not so good for your health. And don’t say, ‘that’s not important!’, because it is.”

He inhaled, gathering himself. Rengoku waited politely.

“From now on, you don’t have to be so strong,” Tanjiro finished. “After all, I’m going to protect you, right?” he smiled again, earrings tinkling.

“Like I said!“ Rengoku began, eye wide, ears burning, “I will not die under your protection. So, if that’s what you want,” he coughed. “I suppose… as your senior, it would be rude to refuse.”

“Oh, good,” Tanjiro exhaled, sinking back into seiza. “I was worried, for a second. But I’m glad.”

This time, he smiled sweetly, making the hashira’s pulse leap into his throat.

Nodding, Rengoku swallowed, and looked outside— at the bells, at the garden, at the Kasugai crows pecking at the windowsill— at anything but Tanjiro.

He wanted to leave. He wanted to move closer. He wanted to say something. He wanted to stay silent. He wanted everything. He wanted nothing. He wanted…

Rengoku glanced back at Tanjiro, chest tightening.

It was strange. Very strange.

“Um, Rengoku?” Tanjiro waved at him. “I’m going to look at your eye now, okay?”

With that, Tanjiro grabbed his face with both hands, tilting it left, and right.

Rengoku wrinkled his nose, cheeks squished between Tanjiro's palms. He was, almost… cute. If a man like Rengoku could be described as cute.

“You seem alright, but…” Tanjiro leaned in, nose brushing Rengoku’s, to nudge their foreheads together. He frowned. “Maybe… a little warm. What do you think?”

Rengoku thought he was going to die.

“Mm,” he agreed. Absolutely mortifying.

“You must be tired,” Tanjiro commented. Rengoku slumped onto him, burying his embarrassment in the green-checkered haori.

There was a light knock from the hall.

“Tanjiro,” Senjuro called out, “are you done yet?”

“Just a second!” Tanjiro reached for the fresh gauze. “I’ll let you know when I’m done, okay? Then I’ll go.”

“Yes!” He heard Senjuro fidget. “Thank you again.”

“It’s my pleasure!” Tanjiro insisted, biting down on the end of the bandage. “I just need a bit more time.”

“I’ll leave you to it,” Senjuro said, walking a safe distance away. Tanjiro sniffed the air.

Poor Senjuro. To be so nauseous around blood…

“It must be frustrating,” he wondered aloud, “coming from a family of demon slayers, and having that sort of constitution…”

“He has his own struggles,” Rengoku simply replied.

“Sorry,” Tanjiro sheepishly said. “I know it’s none of my business…”

He shifted Rengoku to a more comfortable position, biting down on the edge of the bandage and tying it roughly. The hashira’s head lolled into his neck, flame breath searing against his skin.

Despite himself, Tanjiro shivered.

Then again, he turned towards Rengoku, hand sliding down his back. Back then, the scent of death made me vomit, too…

Only a demon could swallow it without blinking. So, it really was better that Senjuro was so soft-hearted.

“This world is filled with wonderful people,” Tanjiro warmly announced, untangling himself from Rengoku. He stood up, brushing off his hakama, and went to collect his katana.

Should I… say goodbye? Tanjiro hesitated, then shook his head, clipping his sword onto his belt.

“Thank you for letting me visit,” he bowed deeply, watching the floor intently. “I’ll be back soon, if you’ll have me.”

When he looked up, their eyes locked. Then Rengoku jerked away, face red and unreadable.

“As you’d like,” he muttered, parroting his earlier words. “I won’t stop you.”

He looks angry, Tanjiro gulped. But he could not help the happiness that bubbled up, bursting out in a loud laugh.

/ end.

I love to hear from Rengoku and Tanjiro fans, so if you like it, please feel to reply or reblog with your thoughts :)

[thischachamaru]

not nearly as fine as the company

Summary: Rengoku and Tanjiro take a stroll on a warm autumn day.

Canon AU, pre-slash or gen, 483 words. Outfits based off of ufotable official merch.

For RenTan Week, Day 4: Warm Autumn Days

READ ON AO3

🍁

A leaf fell from above, yellow at the stem, and red at the tips, bright against the sharp blue of the cloudless sky. The wind tossed it into the air, twirling it playfully, before it floated down, side-to-side, to perch gently on Rengoku’s head.

It bobbed in his hair as he walked with Tanjiro, a paper umbrella leaning on his shoulder.

“Mm?” Rengoku glanced up sharply. The leaf waved jauntily. It looked right at home.

“Mm?” Rengoku glanced up sharply. The leaf waved jauntily. It looked right at home.

“N-nothing.” Tanjiro swallowed the lie, making a face at the stench. Bitter! “Though…”

“Though?” Rengoku repeated. His eyes gleamed like maple syrup over fresh-baked sweets.

Tanjiro stuttered, and changed the subject.

“The trees are beautiful, aren’t they?” he quickly said, stumbling over the question.

“Indeed!”

“And the weather… it’s nice, right?”

“Mm, yes! A fine day for a stroll!”

Tanjiro fiddled with a sleeve. It was too long, too expensive, made of a deep teal that felt more like water than clothes. But Rengoku had seen the outfit at a market and bought it on the spot, presenting it to Tanjiro just that morning.

It was thoughtful. And it was humiliating.

Was there something wrong with his clothes?

He plucked at his sleeve again, guiltily admiring the embroidered leaves swirling in light oranges, yellows, and pinks. Perfectly designed, perfectly smooth, perfectly pretty. Of course, it wasn’t threadbare, or stitched together, and it did not smell like blood, or death, or demons. It was better in every way that counted, but…

What was wrong with his haori?

Rengoku was from a good family, a hashira. Maybe, he didn’t want to be seen socializing with a lower rank. Maybe he was embarrassed.

Tanjiro did not have a formal education. He was poor, unskilled, and not particularly handsome. What little he had in life he got through hard work. Surely, Rengoku had better people to stroll with.

…yet here he was, a leaf in his hair, none the wiser.

There was something wrong with Rengoku.

“Yes!” Rengoku suddenly said.

“Ah?” Tanjiro blinked. “Sorry?”

“Yes.” The hashira smiled, spinning the umbrella behind him.

The road crunched beneath their feet. Tanjiro waited all of ten seconds before prodding more. “Yes, what?”

“That’s all I said. Yes!”

“…oh,” Tanjiro exhaled. That didn’t make sense. Not at all. “Um. Is there anything else?”

“Yes!” Rengoku spun the umbrella again. “In regards to the weather…” he coughed, “it’s fine. Very fine! But…”

Rengoku trailed off, spinning the umbrella faster. He flushed. “It’s not nearly… as fine…” he mumbled something quickly.

“Sorry, I didn’t catch that.” Tanjiro leaned in. Their elbows bumped together. “Is something the matter? You look red.”

“DO I?!” Rengoku’s eyes flicked towards Tanjiro, impossibly wide. Then he snapped his head forward. “Red! Hah! What do you mean! I said nothing!“

The leaf fluttered to the ground as he marched off. Tanjiro could only stare after.

[thischachamaru]

Forget-Me-Nots

Summary: Tanjiro pays Rengoku a visit.

100 words, gen, one-sided feelings implied.

AO3 LINK

“To be honest, I wasn’t sure what to get.” Tanjiro commented. “Senjuro said, so long as they were colorful, you’d like them just the same. But that wasn’t very helpful,” he sighed, and sat down in seiza.

“The flower lady was very nice. She has two daughters,” Tanjiro added, setting down a vase of blue flowers. “Apparently, these are forget-me-nots. They also…”

He poked a stick of incense into the ground, and clapped his hands together.

“…they have another meaning. But it’s a little silly,” Tanjiro smiled at the grave. “So, if you don’t mind, I’ll keep it to myself.”

[thischachamaru]

He was the cat’s meow

Summary: For the first time in his life, Tanjiro wished he were a cat.

100 words, fluff, what more can you want?

A/N: The ‘Tan’ kanji in Tanjiro’s name supposedly means charcoal.

-tan (used as a suffix) is a cutesy way of saying -chan.

AO3 LINK

A small black cat stretched over Rengoku’s shoulders, rumbling happily.

“Um… Rengoku?” Tanjiro began.

“Hm?”

“Not to be rude. But, what is…” he paused. “That?”

“That?” Rengoku blinked. Then he lit up. “Ah! —this, is Tantan,” he declared, scratching its chin.

“Tantan?” Tanjiro’s brows pinched together. After me?

“Because she looks like charcoal, and she’s cute!” Rengoku clarified.

Tanjiro didn’t know whether to be relieved or disappointed. He settled with a neutral, “oh.”

Rengoku thrust her towards him.

“Pet her!” he urged, gold eyes vibrant. “Go on! Do it!”

Tantan mewed, almost pitifully.

Tanjiro’s heart clenched. How could he refuse?