File: 75c20a697ad63d621473c77db(...).jpg (487 KB, 2048x1494)

487 KB JPG

>>4148477

-----------------------------------------------

>You’ll be playing as half-demon Byakuren (and if you feel like it, the Demon sibling Keimi) as we tackle the world of Demon Slayer (3 Years Before the Main Canon Story).
>Seeing as this is AU there will be changes and/or expansions to the main story as well as the potential for divergences.
>Open to feedback and suggestions

Archive: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Demon%20Slayer
Future Updates & Shitposts: https://discord.gg/6Z4bzmt
Character Sheet (Updates as the story progresses): https://docs.google.com/document/d/1VbdzZA8mEkYWXs9UJH17lobl5NxtQl7xKedhPuWrkN8/edit?usp=sharing
Rules and System: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1xg2kKAqR8zo5cBtSdmlje8b7lbCkW5dQw-xF4stkLt4/edit?usp=sharing

>>4148479

The sensation you were currently feeling brought forth a sense of lethargy. Each drop of blood being drawn out of you zaps you out of your remaining strength. In the past several hours of demon-fighting, you have been delivering strong techniques, one after the other. To make matters worse was the fact you spent your time collaborating with others, matching your rhythm and tempo to theirs, bringing out the best in between you and your comrades. And there was also the fact you took part in a long sumo bout with Einosuke Kazuma. In your mind you were still astounded that he was able to match you might for might despite being a half-demon. Safe to say that you were beginning to feel the fatigue at long last.

Naturally, your eyes start to flicker as your eyelids feel much heavier than normal. Body temperature becoming colder and your body was starting to weigh itself down. In spite of this, you cultivated your anger constantly, escalating it as your only means of maintaining consciousness. Although for the added measure you took the initiative and dislocated your left index finger. Breaking it while would’ve been more than enough would’ve drained you even more than just letting yourself dislocate your finger. That last painful jolt down your body was the energy boost needed to maintain your consciousness. With your anger burning fiercely to counteract the negative effects of directly giving your blood this way.

After getting his absolute fill of your half-demon blood, Kaigaku finally removes his fangs from your neck. Leaving a rather embarrassing mark on your neck as you finally feel the eternality of keeping yourself submissive and keeping a coy smile coming to an end. Your body’s impulses and stimuli were screaming at the top of your lungs to exact your revenge. But you weren’t going to let your primal instincts to rule you through nerve impulses. There was no time for it nor could you bring yourself to actually brutalize Kaigaku. Stolen kiss or not, he was still a human. To be more correct currently, he’s, a demon influenced human but a human nonetheless. And deep down you still want him to cooperate with the rest of the group.

Having pulled himself away from you, Kaigaku quickly wipes his mouth clean in satisfaction. Not even he could have predicted at the bounty that he was about to receive from drinking pure, unfiltered demonic blood, untainted in the slightest by eating humans yet possessing exceptional quality. As his body quickly attitudes to the blood donation, the air starts to crackle violently around Kaigaku. Bio-electrical currents manifest outside of his body without the use of a breathing method. The very same means to tap into the body’s natural energy for humans. An excessive amount of validity starts radiating around Kaigaku in the form of pitch-black lightning. The rising surge was enough to make you reel back to avoid the continuous discharge.

>>4148482

“Hahahahaha! This power! It’s truly astonishing! I feel great! “Kaigaku shouts, looking at himself in complete shock and bemusement as his aura skyrockets. The black lightning dances vibrantly around him as he clinches his hands into fists. A wide grin excludes upon his face as he relishes over the escalating power deep inside. “Even as it coursing through my veins, traveling throughout my entire body! I can feel it! The infinite power bubbling up from deep inside! This is far more than eating that fourth-rate or even third-rate demons.”


Even as it was right in front of you it was rather hard getting a read to Kaigaku’s current output. It was simply out of this world at what you were feeling. Less Kaigaku himself although he was worth praise handling such power without losing himself, but rather you were spooked by the power itself. The power that directly came from Muzan Kibutsuji himself. Seeing it from the other side of the veil first hand, it really highlights just how lucky you are to survive the abundant amount of blood he shot through you with his signature blue nail bullets. More so was the fact that you managed to retain your humanity and only ended up as a half-demon. Even so, it didn’t change the fact that with every passing second you could feel that terrifying power. Coursing through you in the form of a sleeping primordial beast just waiting to be unleashed to a world.

On some part, you had to wonder whether or not if what you did was truly the right decision. Brought to narrowing your eyes at the impressive spectacle, you continue feeling unnerved by the presence. Those claims of being a Raijū incarnate wasn’t so far off now that he drunk a healthy if not ravenous appetite’s worth of blood. Sure, your blood generally replenishes itself as the risk of bleeding out was never an issue for you. Nor did it gave you hope that you could just bleed out the demonic influence and return normal no matter how you tried. Even so, you who were now at a much bigger disadvantage compared to Kaigaku couldn’t help but feel the towering presence from the supercharged Demon Slayer. Even so, there was no time for regrets as Kaigaku starts to get ready.

“Time to test just how far I can go with this power!” As Kaigaku remarks he shoots forward with a single step. Moving at speeds that essentially made him disappear from naked sight. Your eyes barely caught glimpse of the setup and movement. Afterward, it became completely blank to your eyes. Thus, you were caught off guard for a moment as Kaigaku appears several feet from your behind.“Whoops!”

>>4148485

Shinsoku or Godspeed, with powerful footwork, one reaches top speeds from the initial acceleration. The only move that comes to mind was an ancient martial art your grandma Guren mentioned during training. Ancient footwork moving to bring the enemy to one’s reach instantly. On paper, it sounds just like Shinsoku but that’s false. Shinsoku moves at an acceleration of speeds that make the eyes incapable of following. But according to your grandma, these movements seem to have the user essentially remove the distance entirely like some sort of magic trick. Near instantaneous teleportation. Such a hyperspeed movement would make even the best senses incapable of registering it until its already too late.

Again, had it been that technique, the Shukuchi, even you wouldn’t have been able to follow its motions. Thankfully it was just like you with the Shinsoku, an instinctual application of raw leg power than brute force his way through the footwork needed to achieve the same results. And to do it in a straight line no less. As a result, you were still able to analyze the motions and rhythm before anticipating his next move. Readjusting himself from his little stunt, Kaigaku merely smirks at you before disappearing once again. This time you start seeing the faint cracks around the area in Kaigaku’s sprinting. Moving from all sides to trick your eyes, you merely choose to remain stationary and to keep your cool.

Jumping at the last second, you avoid a straightforward diving punch as it forms a rather impressively large crater from the impact of the blow. But Kaigaku quickly adjusts mid blow, setting himself up for a shovel hook follow up. Seeing this you merely press your legs against the ground, kneeling down to the lowers point. Once you reach that point you then proceed to spring forward with another hop, this time directly towards Kaigaku’s next attack. Shiting your rotation accordingly, the shovel hook manages to slip right by you just hairs breath from the chest. Using the centrifugal force to your advantage you transition putting Kaigaku into a flying sankaku-jime or triangle choke, successfully now in a submission hold. In your case it was a rather improvised one as you dangle upside down, legs locked around his neck and arms.


“Aaagh! Let go of me, you stupid wench!” Kaigaku screams, struggling violently to your crafty pin. Despite all that power coursing through him you managed to keep him firmly pinned in between your thighs while avoiding the full brunt of potential discharge from his black lightning. Without anti-demon weapons, using grappling holds, especially that of submissions was the best way to restrain and knock out a demon without unnecessary harm or excessive brutality.
Though you think that a standing rear choke would’ve been just as good. Alas, spur of the moment.

>>4148489

Keeping Kaigaku pinned you start to look down at the aggressive bad boy with condescending coyness, much to his growing agitation. “You know I’m rather curious about how your body works now. Aniki once told me about demon slayers who are capable of eating demons to temporally gain their power. Frankly, I’m concerned with just how much of a demon are you right now?”

“...What?” Kaigaku stares up in a blank expression as opposed to your closed-eyed smile.

“You heard me. I’m truly am fascinated to know. How much are you like with regular demons? Are your physique and prowess the same? Is it noticeably weaker? How much of it can you draw while retaining your humanity? Or perhaps what I really want to know is... ” You asks, slowly putting more force into your hold, gripping Kaigaku even tighter as he was starting to have trouble breathing, much less concentrating.

Slowly opening your eyes halfway, you begin staring at Kaigaku with demonic pupils while keeping your softspoken smile. Although now appearing to be a more wrathful buddha about to place judgment. “...Just how much punishment can you take.” You say, voice becoming cruder and dark despite retaining a form of politeness.

“...” Kaigaku stares, starting to get the darker implication as you lock eyes with him.

“..Humans are fragile creatures. The slightest slipup can often at times be just enough to kill a person. But demons, no they’re not as fragile. I mean sure we have these demon-slaying weapons and anti-demon tools. But without them then what? Without the sun, even newborn demons are tremendously hard to put down. So I’ll ask again…just how much of a demon are you?” You explain, getting ever more harsh as you slowly drop your facade of a prim and proper young lady. Becoming more barbaric like a proper Oni by the second.

“...You crafty bitch. Did you give me this blood just so you could then use it against me.” Kaigaku claims, to which you merely shake your head.

“No, no. Nothing nefarious like that as I told you before I’m very geunine in wanting to defeat the ever-loving snot out of you at your best. But you pressed a button that you shouldn’t. And had my powers didn’t dimension. I’d honestly be singing a different tune then the one I am right now. “ You rectify, eyes glowing a rather darker shade of red as a sign of the festering anger boiling deep inside your heart.

“Damn it, damn it, damn it! Like I’m going to let you wear me down in this sleeping hold. I can take whatever you dish out and bounce-” And then it hits Kaigaku as he reaffirms his position in the hold. For the first time in a long time, panic begins to show on his face upon discovering your true objective for using a submission hold like this.

>>4148500

“Quick on the intake. If your healing powers are truly like that of a demon’s. Then I have no need to restrain myself by having you in this submission hold until your little power trip runs out. Suffocation, dislocation if not downright breaking your neck, mutilations, there’s so many different ways I can inflict damage to you. Master Jingo made it painfully clear to me why I shouldn’t rely on my regenerative powers nor be so quick to flaunt them. For me, I know my limitations, including if I get my head detached from my body I’m more or less a goner though that’s in theory. So what about you?” You ask, resuming that condescending smile and gaze that was driving Kaigaku mad with rage.

“Your crazy if I think I’m going to fall for a bluff like that,” Kaigaku exclaims, trying to grab at your legs but finding himself incapable of mustering the strength to pull away. Sweat was starting to form as the panic only worsen at how tightly secured you held his life in. “T-There’s no way someone like you have the stones to actually kill me.”

“It’s true, this is a bluff...but only if you’re still human.” You say.

“Huh?” Kaigaku mutters in confusion.

“If you’re a human then I won’t kill you. No matter how much of an insufferable prick you’re being to me right now, it’s not within my jurisdiction or code to take a human’s life. But if you truly are a demon, then I’ll treat you like one and show you no mercy. It might go against how I do things, but I don’t mind brute-forcing through your regenerative powers till you finally collapse. So I’ll ask you one more time.” Leaning forward directly to Kaigaku you gave a rather terrifying expression befitting a yandere. “...Just how much of a demon are you?”

Backed into a corner by your scare tactics Kaigaku closes his eyes and starts screaming. “Damn it!!!”

Kaigaku starts to channel his demonic energy, tapping into further reservoirs of the blood to try and tap into a desperate power up. Pushing himself further his body starts to exert more power in exchange for further strain. Sensing precisely at what Kaigaku was trying to do you quickly lunged back, reaching for the ground immediately. Grabbing ahold of the ground you then proceed to instantly fling Kaigaku high into the ground like a catapult. A mixture of centrifugal force, gravity and momentum were enough to send him crashing at lightning speeds. Unsurprisingly the black-haired demon slayer struggles to keep himself awake as his body heals from the rampant attack. Before he could recover, however, you grabbed him by the waist through your arms, preparing for your next attack.

File: LEyEbJ6.jpg (668 KB, 2500x2664)

668 KB JPG

>>4148501

Just as quick as the last slam attack through your legs, you smoothly transition into a suplex on the dazed Kaigaku into the ground once again. Yet again he was hitting the rocky surface face first as you took advantage of the opening his recovery gave. It seems that he can’t use the demonic power to attack and recover simultaneously. Thus, you began to wrap your legs around his neck after using the ground to handstand upon. Once firmly locked did you proceed to set up another slamming suplex attack on the stunned Kaigaku. Each attack keeping him effectively paralyzed as you then chain them together for your next attack, again and again. For what on for the next couple of minutes was a series of slams and suplexes tied together fluidly until finally, Kaigaku went completely unconscious.

“...Phew, That was too close for comfort. Didn’t take him to be the type to fall for such provocations. But it goes to show that karma has a real sense of humor.” You sigh, rubbing your temple of sweat after unhooking your legs from his head after finishing him off with an aerial piledriver in the amidst of your combo. Looking down at Kaigaku you took to mind that the demonic blood in him will subside on its own and without any lasting effects on him. But he was going to be out for quite a while with one hell of a hangover afterward. “...Be grateful I’m not an actual sadist or a bloodthirsty savage who enjoys brutalizing and torturing others. Still, I’m not as much as a pacifist as you make me out to be. Just cause I choose violence as my last option, doesn’t mean I won’t act when necessary.”

“Not that he can hear me since I hit him enough force to put down a huge Ussuri Black Bear or an elephant. Hard to say really.” You turn away, scratching the side of your nose while contemplating if you really needed to go that far in subduing Kaigaku. But as you thought about it those feelings were then justified to you losing your first kiss and having to put up with the defilement of losing your blond. And the list just continued as you thought about till finally snapping out of your inner rant. “Anyway, I suppose I should go face the others now and try to solve this peaceful-”

As you try to walk back you start to feel your body stumbling. Followed by your vision getting blurry as the rest of your senses begin to dull. The autonomic nervous system was shutting down all non-critical body functions, resulting in the creeping sensation of unconsciousness. All motion in your body soon ceases as you collapse onto the ground with a loud thud. Even moving your face out of shock was rather difficult as fighting the urge to sleep came first. But it was a futile effort much to your dismay. Ultimately your body succumbs to the shutdown, resulting in your blackout. The last thing you would see was a dark-skinned tribe woman of amazon statue kneeling down to you.

>>4148506

“Huh…” You explained in confusion.

“You shouldn’t have done that. Stupid brat” The woman exclaims, ringing bells to you as her fading appearance was a spitting image of yourself. The key difference was her snow-white hair becoming feathery and is accented with vibrant red undertones and horn-like clips in addition to the darkened skin reminding you of Okinawa.

Before you had any chance of speaking further, your mind starts to go blank.

>How do you proceed?

>Try to plead and/or bargain with Shakuren while trying to wake up
>Fall into slumber and recover as you take the time to figure out what Shakuren is trying to do
>Risk yourself further by cultivating your remaining strength to try and take control back from Shakuren
>Look through your memories for any solutions to your current predicament
>Other [write-in]

[Author 's note: Apologies for the big post but we're going by the results and actions of the last prompt and roll. Thus we ended a boss fight abruptly only to wound up meeting the worst-case scenario, Shakuren's (the demonic essence of Byakuren) awakening.

And a reminder that this is still the first day of the exam. A lot has happened since the beginning so we're heading to quite the climax.


Also to keep track of your current SP.

SP: 6/6
ESP: 2/2
SR : 1 Reroll, 1 Nat 1, 1 Nat 20 )

>>4148512
>>Look through your memories for any solutions to your current predicament

>>4148512
>Fall into slumber and recover as you take the time to figure out what Shakuren is trying to do

I just hope our friends can at least restrain our body.

>>4148512
>>Look through your memories for any solutions to your current predicament

>>4148512
>Fall into slumber and recover as you take the time to figure out what Shakuren is trying to do

>>4148512
>Look through your memories for any solutions to your current predicament

>>4148512
>>>Look through your memories for any solutions to your current predicament

>>4148512
>Fall into slumber and recover as you take the time to figure out what Shakuren is trying to do.

>>4148514
>>4148596
>>4149083
>>4149255

Going with this but given how late I'd been, going to incorporate some of >>4148601
>>4149397
>>4148545

Either way, going to need some rolls to see how fast/precise you are to finding what you need. D20s here.

Rolled 9 (1d20)

>>4149676

Rolled 5 (1d20)

>>4149676

Rolled 20 (1d20)

>>4149676

>>4149692
NO ONE ELSE ROLL

File: 75916674_p0.jpg (979 KB, 1894x1643)

979 KB JPG

>>4149676

What came next is what you more or less can figure out on your own….darkness. Slumbering darkness was all that you saw upon blacking out. Before long your consciousness was falling into the impending darkness. Even in your half-woke state, you could sense what was happening to you. Shakuren was essentially taking direct control of your body. Effectively putting you into a deep slumber in exchange for being the dominant presence. This wasn’t the first time that this has happened and you get the feeling it won’t ever be the last if Shakuren has any say in the matter in case she fails. On previous attempts, you were able to thoroughly take control back and suppress Shakuren into the very depths of your consciousness. Right now not so much as evident due to your previous actions.

Now let with this bone-chilling realization you quickly frantic over submitting to the darkness and being suppressed. On the outside, you feel your body undergoing a metamorphosis. Again, this was all too familiar for you considering you pulled off this transformation during your confrontation between Kyojuro Rengoku and Jingo Akizuki. However, both those times it was rather incomplete through both of you and Shakuren eschewing one another due to different viewpoints on how things should operate. Or so you think, you never really had a heart to heart conversation with your inner demon. All your attempts essentially boiled down to was controlling the beast from within and keeping it change.

In retrospect, it was really no wonder why Shakuren took to taking direct control when given the change and adamantly pushing you into the same cage you put her in. As a result of this, her metamorphic process quickly went off without any lag or interference. Your statuesque frame suddenly gained an additional two hundred and fifty-five kilograms of mass to the musculoskeletal system. Aside from rising to two hundred and twenty-two centimeters, the gained muscle and bone mass was thoroughly compacted into a small but denser package. As a result, this new form was notoriously deceptive even for non-ogre standards. Fitting for the newly revealed combat form as the only other noticeable change was your white hair changing to an autumn brown hue. Everything else was standard demon fare.

File: 2fc8fb88d390824ebf85cca77(...).png (1.02 MB, 886x1253)

1.02 MB PNG

>>4151139

Luckily for you that Shakuren seemingly chose to avoid your comrades and diving deep into the forest. How much you could perceive in your semi-conscious state was very limited. Where she was going or her overall motives currently escape you. Even so, you weren’t sure if it was due to your will or some other reason, but for now, she was avoiding consuming humans. The only thing you could think for her reason was most likely self-preservation. Again, this was all in theory based on the last time you actually carried a coherent conversation with Shakuren. Still, you weren’t keen on letting Shakuren keep this reign of dominance over your body. That said, your mind was left feeling stumped at handling Shakuren. She was absent for a whole year and the last attempt of communication sent you into a blackout.

Safe to say she was prioritizing something important, far more than continuously fighting for control. It just happened to be a misfortune circumstance that reawakened the demonic beast. Nevertheless, you continued thinking of as many attempts at rectifying this situation. In your constant brainstorming, you went deep into looking at your subconscious, pulling out through your memories for a solution. Similar to the life-threatening scenario where one’s whole life story flashes through their eyes, you were using these imageries to look for a way to avoid your fate. To which you find yourself stumbling into something particularly out of the ordinary. It was a memory of you with your mom Sayuri currently lying halfway on her bed as she was watching you play outside with the bell charm Ōnusa.

You yourself appeared as an observer, watching the scene play out from different points. Naturally, since these memories are predetermined, you couldn’t influence them in any way. From watching your mother dancing gracefully with fluid motion in the hot summer to seeing you sitting with your late mother, the memories vividly imprint a resounding impact on you. So much in the fact, a single tear starts to pour out your left eye socket. Having photographic memory for better or worse has made it easy for you to store countless memories in your subconscious. There were many things you couldn’t forget, no matter how you try. This includes your mother finally succumbing to her illness, passing away just a month after her final performance. Thus, seeing her even like this was heartwarming...but also quite bittersweet.


“Byakuren...Breathe. Get your breathing under control and become Mizugami.” Sayuri smiles, continuously coaching you as you nod your head and attempted to do so. Easier said than done for the seven-year-old child as evident by the sloppy attempt. Yet Sayuri merely smiles at you, watching you emulating her performance with the Nanatsusaya no Tachi or ‘Seven-Branched Sword with her Ōnusa.

>>4151141

Eventually, you see the scene shift back to you and your mother sharing a moment in the basket of a sunny day. Rubbing your head affectionately, Sayuri gave another reassuring smile in between going over your performance. “Remember what I taught you Byakuren. In our family lies a special breathing technique. A way to breathe that you won’t ever exhaust yourself regardless of activity. “

Giggling a bit from the ruffling of your white hair, you met Sayuri’s smile with your own before giving a confused look. “Breathing? Is such a thing really possible just by breathing?”

“Yes. If you can master the correct way to breathe, then I’m sure you’ll be that much closer to learning the Kyūkyūden Jōkohō or Nine Palace Purifying Breathing Methods in addition to being able to perform the kagura dances forever, too. Much like Mizugami.” Sayuri explains, nodding to your question as she then turns her attention to the bright sky. In the background was your siblings Keiju and Emiko playing with your father Kenki as Sakura was taking over cleaning the futon and clothing.

“Environments such as the hot summer during the water festival or the training in cold winters in preparation for the spring festival won’t affect you in the slightest. “Sayuri says, softspoken as always which only comforted and reassure you more with peace of mind. You, the current you were looking closely at your mother’s expression, noticing the somber bittersweet expression more clearly.

“Really?! Wow, that’s so cool mama. When I grow up I want to be an amazing dancer just like you~” You smile widely, eyes sparkling with excitement and newfound vigor. Briefly catching Sayuri off guard, she returns to stroking your snow-white hair and showing affection. All while hiding her more serious expression from your sight.

“Byakuren, there are many things I want to share with you. To have you experience as a memento from me to always reflect on even when I’m no longer around. But among all of that, if nothing else make sure our family kagura dance and the magatama necklace get passed down to you uninterrupted. That’s what I promised to you...as my last duty as the head of the Suitengū Shrine.” Sayuri mentions.

>>4151144

“Mmhm. I’ll do it. I might not get it but I’ll be sure to learn everything I can and make you proud mama.” You nodded, going as far as to then hug your mother in confidence.

As a child, you didn’t really understand what your mother was saying. But those words carried a much deeper weight to them then you could ever imagine. Deep down she knew that her time was dwindling as she only had a year left. Yet she pressed through and made it through your eighth birthday after the water festival before finally passing. Perhaps that was the start of your long desire to go out and see the world. So you didn’t have to be constantly reminded of your mother and her timely death. Feeling that first hand naturally brought you to your tears. It was almost seven years since then and even now it still managed to hit you hard. Only by living through this moment did you soon find yourself discovering something else. A strange feeling of memory lane as the ground around you transitions to a memory that you shouldn’t have.

A memory from fifty years ago.

>How do you proceed?

>Continue down memory lane and watch closely at this secret scene
>Use the knowledge you gained so far to confront Shakuren face to face
>Search through your mind for any other clues that may help you before doing anything else
>Focus on recovery and wait until your strong enough to make a move
>Other [write-in]

>>4151148
>>Use the knowledge you gained so far to confront Shakuren face to face

>Continue down memory lane and watch closely at this secret scene

>>4151148
>Continue down memory lane and watch closely at this secret scene

>>4151148

>Continue down memory lane and watch closely at this secret scene.

File: EL55dfdU0AI8rmu.png (1.35 MB, 1500x1600)

1.35 MB PNG

>>4151176
>>4151177
>>4152664

Choosing to let the memory continue its course it quickly took you down the path with no resistance. Almost blending perfectly in transition, you look around after blinking a bit towards your surroundings. It was a Shinto shrine surrounded in the bamboo forest on a full moon in the summer. A scenery not unlike your home as it took you a while to realize this wasn’t the same Suitengū temple in Kurume despite being nearly identical in appearance. On closer inspection, you start to notice that you were in fact in the area that was Chūō, Tokyo, a section of the special wards that make up the heart of the city, close to the center of Tokyo...Asakusa. Judging from its appearance, it was exactly fifty years ago. Knowing that this wasn’t your memory you start to walk around the area, looking for any clues you can find.

Your walking through the area finally came to an end as you see two people currently sitting on the main shrine’s bench. Around them was a plate of tea crackers and green tea, and what you think was sakura mochi. To the left was a dark brown, almost black-haired woman standing around a hundred and sixty-seven centimeters. She was rather beautiful with her pale complexion exuding a Yamato Nadeshiko vibe to her that was almost supernatural. Soft, gentle large eyes of dark lavender that strangely didn’t possess any pupils. Thus further adding to her mysterious beauty. Her hair was worn braided back into a large, low ponytail which is held in place by a floral purple hairpin and yellow sticks. She was currently clad in a dark black and white checkered kimono with flora patterns added into addition, a red obi sash and geta sandals. She was calm, composed and sophisticated, a genuine noblewoman if you ever saw.

To the right side was her complete opposite as you felt her boisterous and bombastic fiery presence coursing through every fiber. Unlike the modest maiden, she was rather extravagant with her ample assets being on full display. Two huge mounds currently restricted on Sarashi straps, acting as support over her exposed white kosode robe and red circular ropes around the shoulders. Between that, the red hakama pants and matching geta sandals, she fits the basic description of a Miko or shrine maiden. But with the hand wraps, she looks more like she was preparing for a brawl than do any actual shrine duties. The other thing that set her apart was her vermillion colored hair, tied in a side ponytail and reddish amber eyes. Judging from this person you could only assume that it was a relative or some follower. For further comparison, the other much taller woman was around one hundred and eighty-six centimeters.

File: 53488a6b65221e496f7bc5a30(...).jpg (585 KB, 786x1000)

585 KB JPG

>>4154270

“Really Gurren, I’m forever appreciative of the help you and the Shimizu family have been for me and my medical research. But did you really have to pull up all the stops to just to drag me here from Asakusa?” The dark brunette spoke softly, sweating a bit from the awkwardness.

“Aw don’t be like that Tamayo. If I don’t check up on you from time to time, you’ll keep yourself isolated in that little shop you call home. With that little gremlin. Honestly, I still find it rather unusual for you of all people to actually considered taking him in and nursing him to this existent.” Gurren smiles widely, practically putting Tamayo in a one-armed hug to the side while continuing her cheeky demeanor.

“Well, I am a doctor. I couldn’t exactly let myself watch such a young child like him die from his frailty and sickness without trying everything I can to save him.” “As someone who also came from a similar boat, I find myself resonating deeply with sickly people. But all else I want to help as many people as possible on the road of recovery and salvation. As best as I can mind you.” Tamayo lamented, keeping up a stiff upper lip although you sense a hint of sadness in her expression. One of regret and sorrow despite trying to remain the tranquil maiden.

Picking up on that, Gurren simply pats Tamayo on the back to the point you swear you hear loud thwack sounds from her palm as she laughs it off. “Right, right. You don’t need to tell me about your oath as a doctor. In terms of duties, I’m not all that different since it’s a Miko’s job to help others and cleanse the world of any negative energy and lingering presence. It’s one of our many tasks but they all connect with the desire to make living for others easier, one step at a time.”

Rubbing her back halfway, Tamayo shifts her eyes back to the grinning Gurren as she puts it all into a retrospective. “And that’s why you called me out here. To show your Kagura dance to me since on normal circumstances I can’t exactly watch with the citizens.”

“Right on the nail. It’ll be no fun if you missed out on my performance. So what better way to celebrate this beautiful night with our shrine’s pride.” Gurren points out, both figuratively and literally at the refined noblewoman before getting up.
Walking just a few steps onto the main scenery, Gurren’s eyes look upward as she takes a slightly more serious expression. “Hey, Tamayo. Do you know why it’s imperative that we work hard to memorize and master these Kagura dances and our breathing techniques?”

>>4154278

Thinking about it rather closely, Tamayo places one finger against her chin. “Well, I would naturally assume that it’s a necessary role as a Miko both on the religious faith aspect and the general entertainment value to refine such moves to their zenith. As part of raising morale and bringing good fortune throughout the year.“

Looking back at her, Gurren gave a half-hearted smile while sighing. Assuming first hand she would think of such a logical if not a boring answer. “Well yes, these moves do serve our roles as Shamanism and Shintoism to ensure good fortune throughout the year, be it warding ailments, purification/exorcism of any lingering malaise, remedy water-related disasters and any other forms of misfortune, or even ensuring safe, easy childbirth and the protection of children in general. Such acts were common when sending our prayers to Mizu no Kamisama, or Mizugami for short. However...it has another purpose that we Shimizu family carried for centuries.” Turning her head back to the night sky, a strong wind blows to the side as her vermillion hair dances vibrantly through the current. “ It’s a promise.”

“A promise,” Tamayo asks, tilting her head in mild confusion.

“Yes, to a person that is no longer of this world. My ancestor Renya was a Sōhei otherwise called a warrior monk. Because of her name and ingenuity, she was able to pass off as a man fought along with the samurai in the Sengoku period. It was during this time that she encountered a notorious rōnin or wandering swordsman but he was also a troubled man. He always felt a continuous presence around him. A sliver of doubt and uncertainty that led him to feel empty and fall into an internal state of contradiction between the mind and soul. “ Gurren explains, placing hands on her curvy hips. Her voice oozing with passion as she continues telling the tale.

“He couldn’t see his own worth and often compared himself to his own brother. Always referring to him as the chosen sun while he, for all of his life tried feverishly to reach the same plateau as him. If you compare the two he was the lonely moon, reflecting only the surface and obscuring its own true luminance. It’s that consistent uncertainty that led the man to be filled with jealousy and inferiority. To my ancestor, she could only sympathize and pity the man. Often questioning the gods as to why they curse him with the inability to see the truth, to understand his sincere feelings buried underneath the sea of inadequacy and longing to be just like the man he described.” Gurren says.

>>4154281

“She didn’t believe him to be inferior rather simply misguided as subconsciously his body and heart been pushing him down a different path. A path where he would one day reach his brother, standing right beside him as more than just equals...but as true brothers. Like they were meant to be.”Gurren exclaims, spreading her arms out in dramatic fashion.

Tamayo meanwhile continues to be quiet as she listens to the story. A more serious look on her face subtly shows. Almost as if she knew something about the two brothers that your grandma didn’t know.

“In their time together she was able to see the man’s true merits as she watched his swordsmanship developed and evolve over time. Originally using the same fluid motions that were found in his brother’s technique, he ultimately came to demonstrating the foundation that would become his signature breathing and sword style. To him, he only came up with the art as a means to hide the fact that he couldn’t master the brother’s breathing, believing it only to be his way of covering for his shortcomings. But Renya refutes these claims, believing that he didn’t want to live a life emulating his brother but rather wanting to make something he can be proud of. Something that he could share to future generations.” Gurren explains.

“Otherwise, he would’ve seen that he already mastered the technique. The same style that he sought to make it his own, but in reality, he could never do that as it was he was too obsessed being just as good if not better than his brother. It’s that hang up which limited him and kept him from realizing the truth. More importantly, learn that the core aspect of breathing can only bloom through accepting one’s own style. He was not his brother nor should feel any shame at the fact. But the man was stubborn and disillusioned by his seething inferiority complex and conflicting emotions. So Renya promised to consume the darkness, illuminate the night and return to a new dawn for his sake. “ As Gurren retold this, it begins to dawn upon you those very same words you were told time after time again. They were a compass for you throughout your whole life and only now hearing it from your grandma did those words begin to carry another meaning.

“Consume the darkness, illuminate the night and return to dawn…” Tamayo repeats, looking at her teacup as she sees the moon’s reflection. “That sounds like something you tell children when they’re riddled with fear and doubts.”

>>4154290

Quietly shaking her head, Gurren puts her right hand against her chest, right where her heart was located. “Maybe, but in these times such innocent optimism is good for lighting the way through the darkest of nights. It’s because of that belief that a new mantra for the Shimizu clan was born. Alongside it through observations, Renya was able to reach what she believes was the intended conclusion between the two brothers. A style that represents what the man truly desires from his heart and her own interpretation of what she believed was a beautiful, gentle style. Although she never got to meet the man after they went their separate ways, she believed one day her wishes will come true. Hence she continues refining the dance before passing it down alongside the breathing arts for generations.”

“And what was the name of that style that became your Kagura’s dance,” Tamayo asks.

Closing her eyes and having a haughty smile, Gurren tilts her head upwards. “Very well, I’ll tell you the name of the style passed on to us by Renya Shimizu. Its name is-”

The words that came afterward were a mystery to you. For some reason, at that point, you couldn’t hear what she was saying. But you knew that the words were in relation to the Mizugami Kagura, the ritual dance that has been in your family for generations. Out of all the things you took seriously in your life prior, learning the dance and performing it to the best of your abilities was one of them. The elegant movements of the Mizugami Kagura said to have been like the shifting tides. Influence by the moon’s gravity, the tides are often pushed and pulled in perfect rhythm in a coherent motion. A constant flowmotion that’s fluid and graceful, acting in concert with the environment. Everything operates on a flow, and the moon was the centerfold in governing that flow with each influential act. Even the very light of the moon was a mere application of its gravitational flow.

>>4154333

In hindsight, with the smooth, adaptive flow of your flexible Kagura dance, its no wonder that you found yourself naturally capable of utilizing the same fluidity and finesse of the Water Breathing Style. But unlike Water breathing, Mizugami Kagura was notoriously harder to perform as it required on point rotation and smooth footwork. Constant weight is put upon you whenever you try it given how much stress is put on your body. All the more necessary for members of the Shimizu family to train thoroughly to condition their bodies properly to handle the Kagura dance and the family breathing to dance from dusk to dawn and vice versa. Knowing the story more closely, it begins to dawn upon you that not just your family’s breathing technique was the only thing applicable to Demon Slaying. As you watch the twelve dances from your grandma in a fluid motion, it only further your hypothesis.


>How do you proceed?

>Try to dig deeper into your inherited memories to find any clue to Renya Shimizu and the mysterious swordsman
>Continue watching this memory but try to perform the twelve dances yourself
>Leave for now and try to use your breathing to disrupt Shakuren’s control.
>?????
>Other [write-in]

>>4154334
>>Leave for now and try to use your breathing to disrupt Shakuren’s control.

>>4154334
>Continue watching this memory but try to perform the twelve dances yourself

Might as well try.

>>4154440

This. Let's not throw away the chance to relearn and apply our birthright. Also if we have to roll for it lets burn our stored nat 20 for insurance.

>>4154334
>>Continue watching this memory but try to perform the twelve dances yourself

>>4154539
>>4154440
>>4154456

Okay, squeezing in some training within this flashback. As always, roll me a d20. But this time it'll be three instead of one. Just to see how well you get it down given the circumstance.

Rolled 4 (1d20)

>>4154808

Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>4154808

Oh boy

Y'know I think we should spend the stored nat20. If we're gonna relearn it, let's make sure it's properly climatic

>>4154814
>>4154813

That counts as 1, So for you guys roll 2d20, and for the rest its 3d20 if anyone was having trouble with the setup.

>>4154821

You guys can do that, using the nat d20 would give a save while boosting the remaining 2 rolls for this trial even if you get a 1.

Rolled 17, 11, 10 = 38 (3d20)

>>4154334

>>4154821

Agreed. Not like anything else comes close. Not even Shakuren. But I'm still gonna roll as well for the rest.

>>4154829

We're in agreement then, gonna roll the rest

Rolled 7, 10 = 17 (2d20)

>>4154834

Shit

Rolled 13, 3, 19 = 35 (3d20)

>>4154808

Rolled 20, 3, 13 = 36 (3d20)

>>4154808

>>4154869

Right, since your Nat 20 slot is filled, I'd take it you want to store it for future usage. Or burn it right now to further improve your roll here. Either or, its your choice.

>>4154879

Burn it

>>4154879
Burn it for double nat20 I think. If it works like that?

Getting an ultra-mega success on recovering our ancestral uber-speshl breathing style feels kind of important.

>>4154879

This may be overkill but fuk it. I want our ancestral breath style and sword techniques. To which I'm curious to what it do. Based on the name I'm thinking some sort of vacuum or gravity pressure to emulate to bottom of the ocean or its currents.

>>4154885
>>4154887
>>4154892

Alright so with that your tally now amounts to


SP: 6/6
ESP: 2/2
SR: 1 Reroll, 1 Nat 1

Just between us, the DC of the process was 17 at the start and drops by 1-2 based on how many successions. With the 2 nat twenties in a row and the augmented 19, you more than guaranteed obtaining the Mizugami Kagura in its sword form and up to Guren's level. There's only one step higher than that but currently, you are unaware of it.

>>4155171
>>4154808

Choosing to remain in this memory from long ago for a while longer you continue watching your grandmother perform the Mizugami Kagura. Seeing this first hand made you think back to an explanation you recall from your father in your youth. Whenever you hear something explained to you, regardless if it was just once or hundred of times, seeing it just once chan have a serious impact on your viewpoints. This was one of those times as seeing the “correct” form once compared to what you were taught greatly changed your understanding completely. Even if it was a dream of a lingering memory, each and every motion was real to you. Making this otherworldly experience all the more influential towards you. At first, you thought you saw blue flames erupting from Gurren’s Shichishitō or seven-branched sword. However, it was something much more illuminating than the blue flames you wield.

What was happening was something far more intuitive in its mystic properties. They weren’t like that of flames but rather a mixture of reflecting light and cryogenic vapor that's luminescent. These clustered clomped together like a stream of dust from the stars or even the moon itself. Thus creating the beams of a rainbowish shade, the most common color is a tie between a bluish and silvery hue. Seeing it first hand made you remember the bluish-white flames during your application, though it was purified to the point of being silvery. The luminance flickers between that of flames and pure, concentrated beams of light. Your ears picked up a stary echo coming from the motion. Mixing it with the glittering aspect of the cluster really sold it to you that this mystical state was a vivid representation of the night. But there was still something about it that was still off to you.

When you applied the Kyūkyūden Jōkohō’s basics to the Breath of Flames, it turned blue and produce the cold flames of the afterlife as Kyojuro Rengoku described. But every time you used the art, you felt as if the heat and energy around you were being siphoned into your blue flames. Being the sole cause of what makes them burn so brightly and more intensely while inflicting ailments only found in the cold on closer inspection. Staring close enough with the greatest intensity you eventually saw what can only be documented as a gravitational lens. A sort of distortion effect that bends its surroundings, influencing the overall flow and controlling its path as it evidently pushes and pulls everything around it. Putting that into perspective you slowly begin to grasp the true nature of Mizugami Kagura. And as to the dangers it carries for the untrained and brash.

>>4155548

From the tiniest amount of details, you start thoroughly observing the difference between you and your grandma in her prime. It was akin to night and day as the gap between the two of you was vast. Although you were still a child, it was made perfectly clear just how refined and potent Gurren’s rendition of the Mizugami Kagura dance truly was. Numerous slight difference such as wrist angle, footwork, and breathing rhythm was all within your bird’s eye view. Even in this dream, your photographic memory kicked into high gear, memorizing this right down to the tiniest speck. All of your useless movements and overall motions were highlighted in comparison to a master’s in her mid to late twenties. The pinnacle of her prime just envelops around her with each step, twist, and any other form of movement. All of it burned to your memory fiercely like a blinding light.

Such elegant and graceful movements were leaving you breathless upon seeing them. Most impressive were these beautiful moves carried little to no wasted motion while retaining perfect rhythm. The closest that came to mind was your elder sister Sakura’s motions. But you were hard-pressed to judge exactly if Sakura was on par with Grandma Gurren in her prime. Just how much diligent perseverance and hard work did she put into mastering the art? Such refined tenacity struck deeply into your heart, reflecting real close to the amount of training that she thoroughly pounded into you. Those harsh teachings starting to make sense to you as you notice how Gurren wasn’t effected by physical strain such high-powered moves can muster. And to do all of this without showing any lag between moves. Linking together the twelve dances in harmony while syncing it with her rhythm smoothly.

To you, it started to appear less like that of a simple dance and more of a waltz between a shrine maiden and the kami spirits around her. Dancing in unity as Gurren soon appears to be one with her environment as the full moon shines upon her. Steadily you vision your eyes closer to watching the motions of your grandma. Memorizing every step to the best of your abilities. Such deep visualization and observation immerse you into the scenery. Before you even knew it, you were seeing less of your grandma and more yourself dancing. Following her tempo beat by beat, matching your rhythm to synchronize with Gurren’s, keeping your breathing in line as you perform the next phase of the dance. Each of the twelve dances represents a cycle of the moon, including the rare patterns such as the blood moon into its cycle in a smooth transition. With the first and last dance, they end up cycling together in rhythm to repeat the process again.

File: 688ae4aa40f0387716219cfb6(...).jpg (459 KB, 1300x728)

459 KB JPG

>>4155550

Each dance was set up for the next and using that tempo and momentum to swiftly yet smoothly transition into the next phase. Following all of this, you soon began fading from your own singularity. Not only was your body was moving on its own but you were beginning to link up with your grandma, move for move. The bridge between the two of you gradually starts to fade the more you dance. Alongside this came a familiar feeling, that feeling being joy. The joy of passionately dancing with your surroundings. Embracing the world’s flow while adjusting your center point axis and gravity without lag or misstep. It was an exhilarating feeling that made you feel the metaphorical concept of all is one and one is all. A family teaching to keep one from becoming conceited and arrogant as we’re all just a tiny piece of something much greater. The universe or otherwise called Shinra Banshō.

Without even noticing it, you were no longer resembling yourself nor your grandmother. Standing in the field dancing without a care in the world was another. A beautiful woman basked in the moon’s light to the point of resonating with the same luminance. Aura shimmering brightly with such illumination made the slender and petite woman appear like the kami spirits themselves. Eyes closed off to her surroundings, though brimming with the same red glow that your family inherited. Long, silky silvery white-haired tied together in two twintails with prayer bells on each side. A traditional Miko attire with the sole exception that her shoulders were fully exposed, rendering the lower arm sleeves to act like arm stockings. And the hakama pants resembling more like a kimono style miniskirt than anything.

Light, Flames, Ice, all manner of aspects of the lunar cycle manifest around her as governed by the gravitational force dictating the flow. Blending together with such smooth fluidity, it started to resemble nature itself being illuminated by the afterglow of the moon. Even while like this, everything around you was still being committed to memory. What stood in place of your constant dancing was someone else. Performing at a level even higher than your grandma, she took the art to the next stage upon starting with the first dance. What happened next was hard to say as you felt your mind blacking out from the experience. Yet that same experience imprints itself through your mind, body, and soul. Lying dormant until a time where you could reach viably. In the darkness, however, your mind starts to see visions. Visions of countless demons being consumed by another. A person you were all too familiar with.

>How do you proceed

>Return to the surface and directly confront Shakuren personally.
>Try to use your breathing to disrupt Shakuren and forcibly snatch back control
>Search through your mind for any other clues that may help you before doing anything else
>Focus on recovery and wait until your strong enough to make a move
>Other [write-in]

>>4155551
>>Return to the surface and directly confront Shakuren personally.

God knows what she's doing with our body while we're stuck here.

>>4155551
>>Return to the surface and directly confront Shakuren personally.

>>4155551
>Return to the surface and directly confront Shakuren personally.

>>4155551
>Return to the surface and directly confront Shakuren personally.

>>4155570
>>4155573
>>4156002
>>4156072

Surrounded by these visions came the intense flowing sensation throughout your body. Strangely it resembled that of basking in a flowing river or waterfall. The unusual sensation washed over your body, invading through your pours and coursing through the bloodstream. Following that sensation was another, this time you pinpointed it to your mouth. It was a strange taste, spongey yet tough. Like you were eating something akin to veal or some exotic taste of beef pork. Perhaps that of marbled beef mixed with spices when you really think about it. But again you weren’t fully sure with this mysterious substance. It was rather hard to describe the taste, texture, and flavor as you continue reflecting on the composition. Even so, there was one aspect that you were all too familiar with its taste….blood.

The red sticky ooze that gushes in your palate which oddly comparative to honey or squished barries carry that same familiarity that you experience out of instinctively sucking on your blood in your youth when you broke the skin. Only then did it begin to dawn upon you just precisely what was happening as your face quickly turns pale. While you were in the depts of your memories reliving the past, somewhere, someplace you were consuming living creatures. Or rather Shakuren was as you become more aware of her activities. Those demons you were seeing being consumed left and right were actually you in the first person committing the acts. Firstly you considered just how long you’ve been committing yourself to watch and experiencing the memories locked in your subconscious. But a worrying question popped up.

Unsure of how long Shakuren has been in control or the full extent of her activities, you forcibly jolt yourself back to life. Using just a single breath your body starts to resonate and pulse with a bluish-white aura. Keeping yourself from having a mental breakdown, you subconsciously applied self-hypnosis through the use of your kenki or warrior’s spirit to trigger stability and suppress the impending backlash from such a discovery. With your mind and spirit fully stabilized, you dive down to the very bottom of the pitch-black abyssal sea you been sinking in for who knows how long. Swimming with the force of a speeding bullet you quickly made it towards the bottom despite its seemingly endless depths. Diving downward you crotch your legs, building up all the muscular strength in your legs. Taking another deep breath, using the full extent of the Total Concentration Breathing and circulating it with the principles of Kyūkyūden Jōkohō your natural aura begins to skyrocket.

File: 12f195617866232b3382b9c47(...).png (4.45 MB, 1760x3254)

4.45 MB PNG

>>4156999

Constant flicking bluish ember circulates you, emerging from your pours in streaks of excess energy. Crackling like that of a dancing flame, it generates a visible aura raging to explode in vivid luminance. Flowing in a constant stream it begins to stabilize, continuous pulses vibrating your skin as your body excites itself down to the last cell. Shifting from the unstable form into a more coherent state, the natural floodgates fully awakening. Resulting in a pulsing, flame-like aura, coursing through every fiber as immense heat circulates around you. Rippling like fire, the energy carries sparkling particles, much like the Mizugami Kagura you practiced prior with great intensity and dedication. Focusing this excess of bioenergy, you empower your lower legs to their utmost degree before reinforcing them. Once that out of the way you sprung forward like a hopping frog, shooting upwards with tremendous force.

Speeding like a shooting star you sore out of the pitch-black darkness that threatens to keep you captive until the very end. Without your demonic influence, your consciousness in this state was more or less your humanity given form. Thus you didn’t have to struggle with balancing the dual forces that normally courses through you. Allowing for feats such as this to manifest without much issue. Which was good as you felt the sinking suspicion that you were going to need what you learned from the distant past to combat your inner demon if it came down to it. Speaking of you finally caught of glimpse of something beyond the darkness. Pushing yourself out of the bottomless ocean you soon found yourself currently slowly descending to what appears to be a festive village with a Shiro or imperial Japanese-styled castle at the center. Two like Shibi, shaped like shachihoko stand on the rooftops as many smaller pillars were serving as the gates. From a bridge for the koi river to the Chinese lanterns hanging around gave a feudal vibe to the scenery.

Tilting your eyes to the side you saw someone currently sitting with one knee up in the air in a kneeling pose. Smooth caramel skin of Okinawa descent, snow-white hair with vibrant red undertones, sarashi bandages around her chest with her arms wrapped in hand wraps and red tekko gauntlets, tribal clothing befitting an oni design with her white hakama pants, black boots, black and golden obi sash, a keshō-mawashi though it looks more draping for the sash, and large black monk beads around her neck. You could tell from a glimpse she was a statuesque woman with an exquisitely detailed musculature. Despite sharing many similarities between you, enough to be your twin, there were subtle differences right down to build as the figure rest her arms against a huge kanabō, bigger than Ozaki’s Zanbatō, as it looks like a giant slab of dense metal acting as a bladed club.

>>4157006

“Yo took you long enough to finally make yourself present. And here I thought I’d finally got rid of you before you could do any more damage. Seriously given my blood like that to a puny runt trying to impose as a big shot? You really are a hopeless case, you faker.” Shakuren remarks, her dark skin turning into a shade of vermillion as she holds what looks to be a drinking cup in her hand. She turns her face towards you, revealing scarlet eyes, a cat-like iris and blacken sclera. It was those same eyes you dawn upon when letting your demonic influence take hold.

>Ask Shakuren exactly what she is while trying to come to an understanding and talk things out
>Make a bargaining deal with Shakuren in order to gain a better hold of your demonic powers
>Intimidate Shakuren and demand what she’s been doing in your absence
>Don’t even speak and try to forcibly take back control by assimilating Shakuren into yourself.
>Try to apologize to Shakuren and mend your relationship with the inner demon
>Other [write-in]

>>4157012
>Try to apologize to Shakuren and mend your relationship with the inner demon

>>4157012
>>Try to apologize to Shakuren and mend your relationship with the inner demon

>>4157012
>Try to apologize to Shakuren and mend your relationship with the inner demon

Apologizing for utterly wrecking Kaigaku's shit while he was at his most smug is kind off... Eh. Worth it.

Still. We kind of tried to enslave her, IIRC, that is worth an apology. We also kind of want more demonic power, she surely wants something too, we can try to reach an understanding - this status quo of everyone getting the bare minimum of what could be gained from this union is not particularly satisfying.

Just don't totally forget all self-respect while at it, our inner hollow probably would lose whatever little grudging respect for us if we behave like a total doormat.

>>4157012
>Ask Shakuren exactly what she is while trying to come to an understanding and talk things out
>Try to apologize to Shakuren and mend your relationship with the inner demon
There's no reason we can't ask a few questions while we are getting things fixed.

>>4157109
>>4157098

Gotta agree on both of these. I can only assume Shakuren is being such a domineering bitch is cause we did it first on multiple occasions. So we should try to amend that but do it in a way we have her respect. No matter how little it is. But no apologizing on Kaigaku. He deserved that humbling beatdown.

>>4157058
>>4157094
>>4157098
>>4157109
>>4157202

Okay, Friendship/Mutal Understanding. That works. For those wanting to ask some questions, fill free to write them and I'll look them over.

Now, this is completely optional but if you want to roll for charisma points/charm, then give me a d20.

Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>4157215
I guess ask her what she wants or her terms.

Rolled 20 (1d20)

>>4157215

I guess a "Who are You?" is a bit necessary, but more of a more metaphorical sense.

>>4157250

Noted, now I'm going to ask the crowd if they want to use that 20 or save it since you got an open slot for that.

>>4157250
Use it, this will give us everything we need to know and set us up to use more of our demon power in the future.

>>4157277
Use it. Making your inner demon your BFF is always worth it.

>>4157277

Use it. No reason not to since this is important. As for questions i want to know why Shakuren was doing for the past year after she refused us. And what we can do to better learn how to operate and fight like a demon. So we can get our devil trigger and blood demon art.

Almost done with the post but I wanted to post the impending contract that Shakuren is going to imposed for her terms. So make your decision to agree with them, argue with it, compromise, throw your own terms, etc. We're going Re:Zero/Hunter x Hunter on this.

Shakuren's Terms and Conditions/Contract Pact
Shakuren will be active only from 9 pm to 5 am
Shakuren will only lend her power/allow access to the demonic abilities when permission is given. Otherwise, only the bare minimum will be given at any time.
Do not ask Shakuren her motives when going out. In exchange, she won’t cause harm to humans when she can avoid it. Also, she will by no means eat any humans.
Do not willingly step into direct sunlight or expose yourself to wisteria if you can avoid it. Only expose just enough to help build up resistance each day.
Do not hide the fact that you are a half-demon. Nor hide your current form unless it’s truly important to your relative mission.
Do not reveal Shakuren’s identity without permission.
When you have time to sleep, sleep for about ten to twelve hours or a full twenty-four hours once every three to four days
Eat four to six meals a day especially when you skip out on sleeping.
Drink animal blood and/or raw meat whenever you can.
Never run from a fight where defeat is uncertain. Strategic Retreats are acceptable but will be a case on case subject.
Groom your teeth and claws every morning, never let them become dull.
Drink fresh animal blood and/or raw meat whenever you can.
Have some exercise/training when you wake up and before going to bed. Always push past your current limits.
Do not be picky about food except when it’s roasted basedbeans or enriched salt.
Meditate in the wilderness every morning and evening if you are able.
When Shakuren comes out, do not backtalk her or obstruct her when it comes to self-preservation. The same rules when dealing with humans apply as before.
Whenever you go unconscious to power down/recover, Shakuren will take control through either unconscious motion aka autopilot, or will directly take over depending on the situation.

>>4159037

Replace one of the animal blood/raw meat with consuming demons or some other fitting condition you think Shakuren would throw.

>>4159037
Most of this just makes Shakuren sound like a mom. I'm fine with everything.

>>4159059
>Shakuren sound like a mom.
Now we have to jokingly call her that.

>>4157215
>>4157277
>>4159037

Seeing her at a distance you could pick up the emanating aura around her. Given the sheer density of this swirling vermillion aura, it left your skin forming goosebumps upon brushing with the physically palpable bioenergy. It’s so thick that you swear that you could compare it with dense fog or a series of clouds. From what you remember with Master Jingo demons get stronger the number of humans that they consume. Something that you could tell based on their aura. Allowing for greater demonic abilities including the supernatural spell-like powers called Blood Demon arts. The demons you fought so far were incredibly strong for the exam but even they did not possess such arts. In retrospect, without your team victory would still be within arms reach, but it would be far tougher than it ended up. It only goes to show that this exam was no laughing matter, all the more reason to ensure nobody dies in this exam.

You who never ate a single human being managed to accumulate strength and grow to acclimate said power through unknown means. The closest you could put together that Shakuren hybernates to recover and stockpile her strength while you go through everyday life. Putting aside your own actions, this high-maintenance body required large quantities of nourishment to maintain its optimized state normally. Although you could get by through sleeping, the amount of time you find yourself sleeping was too disastrous for you to rely on, hence the nigh-insatiable hunger pains and voracious appetite that lets you put away massive amounts of food without any adverse effects. In fact, being constantly hungry made you unable to experience getting full as they were always more room.

Pushing your metabolism to the limit these past two years not only resulted in a steeled stomach and hypermetabolism but for some reason, your body can wolf down virtually anything and convert it into nourishment. Once again between augmenting your digestive system, developing heightened photosynthesis to the point of siphoning nearby energy sources, and manifesting other means of obtaining substances, it nearly made up for being impossibly ravenous, impossible to satisfy, and impossibly addicted when you neglect your body and lose control of your urges. At least now you knew where all that excessive energy was going into. Judging from Shakuren’s presence she must have stockpiled enough power to be compared to a demon that ate more than fifty humans, perhaps even more. She did, after all, consumed demons who ate a dozen humans out of preservation.

>>4160471

You can only assume the track level you been piling up with your actions must have irked Shakuren to the point of being especially infuriated with you. From refusing to go into a coma for recovery to burning seven years off your life, one can safely say you don’t particularly treat your body well. Of course, you didn’t feel strong feelings of regret over your actions. Almost going as far as to feel validated considering your gains, you was still self-aware enough to know how much your current path has been detrimental to you. Demons may be biologically immortal but it wasn’t sure if you were of the same boat. While you long since made peace with your mistakes and move forward, it was most likely the opposite for Shakuren. And for good reason as even in this state, you feel an abundant amount of demonic blood coursing through your veins. Far more than usual out of possibly as a side-effect from Kaigaku drinking your blood to this extent. Right now you didn’t have the best impression for your inner demon given her disgust expression.

Playing it cool you descend onto the soft ground, landing just a few feet from your inner demon. Keeping your eyes locked with Shakuren’s, you maintain your distance before speaking softly. “Not wanting to sound cliche I’m just going to ask the standard questions. What is your objective here, where are we, what’s happening now, why are you eating demons instead of humans and most importantly who are you really? “

“Asking the important questions are we? This is usually the point where you act first and ask questions later. “ Shakuren snarks, clearly still bitter over the endeavors.

“Yeah and look where that’s got me. I may have stopped you two times but each of those times ended up costing me in the long run. Both strangely having to do with time, be it perspective or my literal life force. If my inner demon cares about my life more than me then I know I’m not in a good place. Call it breaking established character if you want, I just want to know more about you and my situation. Preferably through words and not a clash of ideals with what I assume will be weapons. Or fisticuffs, I don’t exactly have any real knowledge of how the subconscious works, unless its a mind over matter kind of deal.” You said, making a shrug upon trying to discover how this phenomenon operates while making small talk.

Pinching her eyebrows and rubbing her temples, Shakuren lets out an exaggerated sigh of annoyance. Vermillion flame tips excluding from her mouth like a mini flamethrower. “First off its called lucid dreaming. Secondly, why should I give you the time of day much less all the stuff you’re asking? And lastly who are you? Shouldn’t it be obvious that I’m your bane? The very thing you refuse to let yourself be. Hence why you constantly suppress me at every waking moment.”

>>4160473

“I’m going to make this perfectly clear. I don’t want to fight if I can avoid it, especially over how I handled Kaigaku. You saw me first hand manhandling him in all of his smug glory like a ragdoll. Even now I don’t have any regrets doing what I did or how I reacted. You don’t go stealing a maiden’s kiss like that, no matter what! But, I don’t think you would care about that. At least, anything outside of having our blood extracted. So I’m thinking you know something about this that I don’t. And I want to know.” You say in between defending your actions and fuming over in a pout at still feeling the kiss on your lips. No amount of soap or purifying salt was going to wash that away.

“Sun Tzu once said to defeat your enemy you must first know thy enemy. How do I know you’re not just biding your time, distracting me while waiting for an opportunity to find some sort of weakness? Last time you try to confront me I shut you down completely without effort. You don’t even know what I could have done to you during the blackout.” Shakuren points out, narrowing her brow ever so slightly as she stares deeply at you with skepticism.

“Well, actually I’m going to rip apart your abridged version by reciting the full quote. If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle. When you look it like that, I lost to you because I didn’t understand you nor myself. You’re right about you could’ve done anything to me and I wouldn’t know it. And it’s presumptuous to me to think that you didn’t do it because you’re actually kind. Of which I’m still rooting for that possibility, but if I’m going to get anywhere in this relationship with you, I need answers. So I’m only here to talk.” You say, avoiding sounding condescending and more genuine in your explanation.

“..Fine then. I suppose I’ll humor you by starting off with the most important question. Though calling me Shakuren or Shuten like that callously pompous man wanted to name me is just as good.” Shakuren states, closing her eyes and folding her arms.

Keeping your softspoken expression, you silently slam your hand against the ground, making for a remarkably large tremor. “Don’t give me a bullshit answer like you don’t have a name or try to work around my question with mind games and wordplay. I want a genuine, bottom from the heart answer. “ You point your index finger to Shakuren.

>>4160480

“So you want the true answer eh? Not some sort of philosophical reason like I’m your inner darkness or how we humans always possessed the traits to become demons metaphorically when pushed to our lowest point. “ Slowly opening one eye Shakuren dons a rather aggressive aura. If looks could kill she’d be sending you a barrage of death attacks of barbaric oni fashion. As she stares, Shakuren starts to get up from the ground, one knee at a time. “It’s amusing to believe that you of all people have that right to ask me about that. But very well, I was getting tired of beating around the bush anyway.”

“I’m you, the real you.” Shakuren smiles, now standing tall in dramatic spite before placing her hand against her chest. Her facial expression softening but still resembling that of a full demon.

“...” You paused, finding yourself speechless as you merely blink with disbelief. Before long it turned to anger as you too rise up to stand face to face with Shakuren. “You said you weren’t going to pull any mind games with me and giving me a straight answer. Right now I feel like you’re picturing me as some sort of idiot which I’m not going to be taking that standing up.”

“It’s true you dumbass! Have you ever wonder why you have deep-seated anger issues or how easy its for you to really lose your shit? All of it is on me. We may share those feelings but they originated from me!” Shakuren shouts, her voice distorts with a booming echo that sounds more sinister and husky in its roughness. “Unlike you who was composed to fill in the blanks after the fragmentation process followed by further deconstruction and reconstruction, I’m the one who carries what you as in our body left behind. The scattered pieces that refused to comply and reform into an echo of an innocent girl who no longer exists. “
Listening to her words you start flashing back to the previous times where you let out your feelings since that unfortunate day and how demonic you sound when confronting your rage and hatred. The brief glimpse was enough to make you slightly evasive as you continue confronting Shakuren from a distance. “What are you trying to say? Because it sounds like that you’re claiming to be me. Well, more me than myself which I don’t think that’s possible..”

>>4160482
So she's the consequence of trying to stay gentle. Neat.

>>4160482

“Do I really have to spell it out? I’m the true Byakuren Shimizu. The original one who chose vengeance in the end, the one who refused to let go of this burning hatred of mine and embracing the darker emotions. The you who’s been drowning in the weight of our seething jealousy for far too long. The you that when having the chance to not be this half-breed amalgamation desired to become a demon. If only to use the very same power that irredeemable piece of shit Muzan Kibutsuji forced upon us to exact our revenge. I can come up with countless comparisons on our reasons but the truth of the matter is none of that matters. Stubbornness and persistent tenacity are all that we are, it’s all that we have. It’s just like that numbskull talked about. When the chips are down and you’re at the edge of your life, your true colors reveal itself. “ Shakuren explains.

“That’s impossible. I remember it clear as day. I didn’t lose myself to Muzan’s demonfication! Hence why I’m what I am right now. A half-demon!” You argue, disbelieving what your inner demon was saying. Otherwise, you would be a full demon which was impossible. There’s no way you would actually willingly throw away your humanity and become a demon...wouldn’t you?

“Don’t be stupid! When we came close to snapping from the severe state of depression and despair of losing our family and surviving only because we were sturdier than most alongside hiding like a coward. It’s our stubbornness that triggered a last-ditch failsafe to keep the consciousness from truly collapsing and being reborn as the second Byakuren. A version of you that’s an echo of who you once was.” Shakuren exclaims, glaring at you as she pulls out her Kanabō towards your direction.

“As if I’m going to let my own body purge me like the plague. Though I got to give it credit at simulating those realistic illusions in our last moments. They were quite convincing in telling us what we wanted to hear and fight back to keep a semblance of our humanity. “ Shakuren scoffs.

Stumbling back a bit your eyes widen from the news as you start to feel uneasy. “No! That’s not true. I know that I heard my father calling out to me. The sounds of our family, they’re warm embrace pulling us out from the darkness, the smiling faces that helped remind us of who we really are and not what you think we should be.” Gritting your teeth and clenching your fists, you angrily scream at Shakuren as the vision of your sister being carried by a mysterious ronin floods your mind. “I will not let you call that a lie! Over my dead body!” Much like Shakuren, your voice begins to distort as your eyes become more demonic. Causing you to reel back at the change.

>>4160504

Grinding her molars to the point of letting out a sharp crash, Shakuren quickly slams her Kanabō harshly against the ground. Creating a massive shockwave that forms an even bigger crater. “Sakura’s dead! It’s been two years Byakuren, it’s about time you face reality and accept she’s gone. Just like our mother, just like our father, and for all you know, Keiju and Emiko might as well be dead given Keimi’s simple-minded airheadedness. So who does that leave us? Grandma? Pfft oh please, I bet that old hag died of a heart attack after hearing about what happened to the Shimizu family.”

After letting out a monstrous roar in her shouting rant, Shakuren slowly loosens the weapon’s grip on the ground’s surface and reel her body back into standing form. Leaving you on the ground having been blown away the shockwave and bouncing violently against the ground until one last crash. “Not like we could’ve gone back home and participated in either the Spring or Water Festival and carry the torch as our village’s sole Miko. After all, vengeance takes priority. Or maybe its because you don’t want to go back and prove your oh so-called vision was a pack of lies told by a delusional girl.”

“Shut up…” You muttered, pulling yourself up as you try fighting back your own rampant emotions. Feeling the intensity of Shakuren’s rage as it was resonating deeply inside. Almost pushing you to doubt what you saw, and second-guessing your decision upon questioning everything.

“When you look at it our appearance is a spitting image of that concept. Rushing forward to adulthood, no longer seeing the world through child-like innocence or hiding behind those childish gestures, to be recognized as a mature, nurturing maiden. The cool beauty who’s as strong as she is enchanting. To be acknowledged for what we really are and not treated like Sakura’s sloppy seconds. No matter how many times we proved ourselves, we’re always seen as a second-rate child playing pretend in their eyes. But that’s not the fault of us but society itself with its two-faced nature. No, it’ll be more accurate to say human nature itself since we wear the mask known as the persona to make lasting impressions on others, appearing to people how we want them to see us, while simultaneously concealing our true nature. “ Shakuren explains, lifting the weapon up before soon resting it against her broad shoulders.

Forming an abrasive smile, Shakuren opens her left eye widely while slanting her right to produce a psychotic expression. “So tell me Byakuren, do you still believe that you’re the real Byakuren or that Sakura is still alive?”

>>4160520

“Don’t you get tired of putting up this act? To live out such delusions when the facts are staring in front of you? And what about your persona mask? Acting like a prim and proper girl, always trying to be cool, calm and collective alongside acting courteously like a grown-up. Just like our mother….no.” Shakuren pauses, narrowing her eyes as she glares against the sky. “Just like Sakura. We wanted to be able to have the same effect of putting people at ease and be at the center of attraction that people revolve around. A wise, well-elevated/mannered reputable maiden with beautiful elegance and grace. The spitting image of a hime, much less the reincarnation of the shaman queen Himiko. But I got some bad news to break for you. “

Setting her weapon on her back, Shakuren slams her fist against the ground, making an even bigger crater in the process. The force was enough to push you directly towards Shakuren. Timing perfectly for a well-aimed grabbed, catching you and stopping your motion in dead still. “We’re not Sakura! No matter how we try to emulate her, no matter how hard we push ourselves, we will never reach the same plateau as her. That is the essential truth.“ Shakuren screams, placing her hand against your face before following up by slamming you to the ground.

“At your core you aped others, mimicking them right down to their rhythm like their twin. It’s the only thing yourself was good at, all thanks to those special eyes of yours. But in trying to emulate others, deep down you know it didn’t bring you closer to what you desire. No, it only served to distract everyone including yourself to the truth. You’re empty. Just like your namesake your as pure as the white snow/lotus. But on that spectrum, it only paints just how bland and unspecial you really are. Nothing to truly call your own, nor worth standing in equal footing to big sis Sakura. ” As Shakuren explains, the ground starts to repair itself, leaving her to pull herself from you and walk away.

Turning her back on you, Shakuren arcs her arms before resting them on her hips. “So unlike you, I’m done trying to pretend to be someone I’m not. If that means being rough, brazen, coarse and nonchalantly outside of battles then so be it. Being reborn as a demon awakened me to the truth and I couldn’t be happier. The only thing that trumps this euphoria is my burning hatred towards Muzan Kibutsuji and the constant impulsive drive to seek vengeance. “ Shakuren smiles, appearing all the more twisted as she was far scarier than any demon. But you saw that tears of blood were pouring from her eyes. Showing you that she’s trying her hardest to rile herself up and believe her boasting.

>>4160542

Seeing her inner pain, you feel your own anger dissipating. There was no longer any doubt about Shakuren’s identity as all of that hit close to home. Choosing to sit down against the ground, you somberly look at the floor now fully restored. “Yeah, I know. To be honest, I’ve also been feeling like that. Carrying that bitter jealousy for so many years worn me down and weaken my resolve. It made me look at life like a half-full cup, unwilling to put mine all into virtually anything. Why bother when I know my older sibling can do anything I can do but several times better. All that amounts to me is being nothing but a copycat. Even as I put a facade of a carefree Genki girl, with a laid-back attitude about everything, or pulling off impersonations of others for fun, it was only simple delusions made to merely lick my seething wounds.”

“I’m glad you understand. So now you see things my way, just disappear and let me take over.” Shakuren says, eyes dulling alongside with her pain. Slowly returning to normal. “You don’t need anyone and we can do just fine with only Keimi by our side.”

“Worst of all it made me lose sight of what I truly wanted. To dance just like mom. No, to be more accurate I just wanted to dance. Nothing more.” You reflect, stopping the inner demon in her tracks as she turns to look at you.

“Whenever I dance I feel like all the concerns, burdens, everything that would keep me chain down dissipating into dust before blowing in the wind. As free as a bird, I feel the same breathtaking exhilaration and invigorating passion that those creatures feel when moving with the current flow. It reminds me that we’re all connected in a circle, in a hoop that never ends. Much like the phrase all is one and one is all, everything is connected. No matter how small or seemingly insignificant. And when I think about that, I feel completely tranquil and serene. Focusing only on the moment and nothing else.” You explain, making a soft smile as you reminiscence over how you spent your days practicing with your mother watching you.

“I can’t really explain it but when I dance like that I feel like I’m achieving zen in motion or Do-Chu-Sei. But I do know that dancing to me is the greatest feeling and I nearly lost that passion trying to be someone I’m not for recognition. Seeing that dream from my answer is what truly helped me remember that. So long as I have that earnest and sincere passion, I know that I can dance my own way and become Mizugami. Not simply following my sister’s or even my mother’s example. But to truly be my own person and have something I can truly call my own.”

>>4160593

“However, only after walking through this path have I begun understanding the values of others through cooperation and teamwork. Just like I said to Kaigaku, I don’t need to put myself on a pedestal trying to validate my self-worth. We as a species have gotten by through the efforts of those around us, including our ancestors. They are the ones who left the foundation for us to stand and help us see the path moving forward. It was stifling having an occupation labeled on me and my role decided since birth. But I never truly hated it. It was my jealousy and abrasive desire to grow up and make my own identity that kept me clouded. And I embraced that, all to get away from the pain of losing mom…. That’s why I didn’t want to be a Miko like those before me.“

“Ridiculous. No amount of impudent wisdom is going to change facts. I’m the real Byakuren and I’m not going to be playing this delusional fantasy anymore. “ Shakuren says.

Grabbing her hand before she took another step, you follow up by flipping Shakuren to her front to directly look you in the eye. “No, neither of us by ourselves is the true Byakuren Shimizu. While you may be right that our conscience shattered our mind to reinstitute ourselves back to how we were previously to avoid permanently snapping into a deadpan, emotionless doll incapable of making decisions or feeling anything including emotions. Essentially being dead while physically alive. I don’t take it as me being the inferior copy to which you claimed you threw away for vengeance. Nor do I think you really believe everything you’re saying.”

“I know deep down you want to believe that our siblings will return. That Sakura is still out there waiting for us, that the only tragedy we have to face is losing our home and our parents. We’re not empty. Nor will we let ourselves be empty. Even if we don’t have any family ties anymore, we can still make new ones with our friends. Aniki, Master Jingo, Aoi, Kagura, Makomo, Einosuke, Muichiro, Ozaki, and so on. We don’t have to let ourselves be consumed by our guilt and hatred, or let our life be only defined by vengeance. I won’t lie and say that my desire to save people isn’t riddled by PTSD over what has happened to us. Even so, I know that we can come to a balance between duty and our clashing ideals.” You argue, tightly holding your hand against Shakuren’s in order to keep her from leaving.

“...You can’t be serious.” Shakuren coldly remarks. “You can’t possibly think we can ever see eye to eye much less cooperate with people after what we are.”

>>4160610

“Don’t you see Shakuren, you’re as just as much me as I am you. All that’s different between us is how we’d end up based on a singular day. It’s the duality that defines us and reminds us that we’re humans. That’s why I believe it takes both of us to become Byakuren Shimizu. And because of that...I’m sorry.” Upon saying that you pull Shakuren into a tight hug, catching the red-skinned ogress by surprise.

“I’m sorry for trying to enslave you, denying your existence and repressing like you were some evil monster. Treating you no different than the negative emotions that I’ve been avoiding rather than owning up to it. That was all kinds of messed up and I’m deeply regretful of my actions. I only thought of myself believing that if I’d let you take over I would lose something precious. But in all the time we have been together I never try to reach out to you. Never try to look at things from your perspective, or hear your voice no matter how hard you cried. “ You apologize, sounding particularly sincere while avoiding being a doormat as evident by the tight hug keeping Shakuren from pulling away.

“Listen here! You can’t just have a change of heart like that and flip the script out of nowhere! So don’t try and act that you’re different now. You don’t like me just as I don’t like you. So let's settle this once and for all.” Shakuren argues, hissing at you as her aura and body temperature skyrockets in intensity.

Enduring the escalating heat and pressure from Shakuren, you look at Shakuren with soft, gentle eyes. Showing her just how much you were empathizing with her. Rather if she wants your sympathy or not. “But I don’t want to hate you! I actually like you or at least want to try to like you.” You scream, blowing away the toxicity that was lingering around Shakuren. Her sclera turning white as her red pigmentation reverts to a smooth brown tan. “Surely you realize by now that this status quo between is not particularly satisfying and beneficial for either of us. Fighting for constant control isn’t going to do us any good. Not only are we holding ourselves back, but being in this constant state of achieving the bare minimum from this union has done a number on us. Otherwise, you wouldn’t have to resort to eating demons.”

“Like it or not the two of us will have to cooperate to survive and achieve our mutual goals. Co-existence is our best option right now. If not our only one. I don’t like treating you like a prisoner and keeping you restrain but I will fight to remain who I am not just for me but those around me. Those who believe and have faith in me despite everything. So as Byakuren Shimizu, you understand exactly what I’m getting at and what needs to be done.” You say, trying to reason with Shakuren's humanity knowing that just as much as she imprinted on you, the vice versa was in effect.

>>4160613

“Let go of me,” Shakuren demands, struggling her arms against your wrists. No matter how much strength she draws she seems unable to break out of your vice grip.

“I won’t! Not until you stop being a grump and lying to yourself.” You said, shaking your head in defiance while angrily looking at

“Byakuren!” Shakuren screams.

Taking a rather deep breath, you blow a rather loud raspberry at Shakuren.“Thbpttttttt!” You say, sticking your tongue as Shakuren calls you out for being a child.

Gritting her teeth as hard as she can, Shakuren lets out another yell. Blowing massive steam of vermilion flame to the sky. Lightning up the darkness of the night sky like fireworks. After a few more loud screams and burst of flames, Shakuren’s demonic traits fully recedes, returning to the dark-skinned twin from before. With a defeated sigh, she looks down at you stubbornly hugging her with your cheeks puffed out still doing raspberries. “...Fine. You win. “

“Is that a genuine you won or I’m going to wait until you drop your guard to sucker punch me and try to take over my mind.” You questioned just moments before you instinctively made a wide grin.

“Sadly I’ve matured enough that I can’t invade the brain and permanently take control, erasing you in the process. Hence we’re stuck in this limbo state of being neither human nor demon. Merely stuck in between. No amount of demon flesh I’ve consumed managed to change that. So as you put it, cooperation and mutual co-existence between us is our only option.” Shakuren laments, sounding tired and out of the mental strength to fight back.

“I hate admitting that fact but forcing myself to constantly take direct control and suppressing you requires an obtrusive amount of effort and energy. Precious energy that can be better used for more important things.” Shakuren explains.

“I’ve been meaning to ask. Just what exactly are you prioritizing? You have typically been silent outside of interfering when my life is on the line. So I think before anything you should tell me what’s up.” You ask.

>>4160637

“As you see we’re neither fully human nor demon, and yet we haven’t bridged the surface of our true potential. In the past two years since this predicament, I’ve been using my time focusing entirely on development. Prioritizing tackling things that our body needs to tackle for our survival. Like the fact the sun robs us of our strength, rending us helpless at best and a detrimental poison at worse. Or how about the wisteria around us having a noteworthy lesser but still highly dangerous potency compared to the sun? Or how about the fact you brute forced your way through sleeping and having to excessively develop like a plant and eat far more nourishment to replenish your body and keep yourself fully optimize. Let it be known that since this unholy union between demon and human, you’re the one whose’s been doing far more damage to us than me.” Shakuren lectures, staring at you with the same stern, hardass eyes like your sensei.

“...I mean it didn’t end up all bad. Adversity brings forth opportunity and even you have to admit these past two years done a lot for our evolution.” You try to set up a counterbalance, feeling the look of shame place on you as you were studdering.

“Those accelerated evolutions come with a price, you already lost seven years off your lifespan to obtain this high-maintenance body. Don’t ever forget that.” Shakuren states, only intensifying her glare as you let go and feel the need to kneel down and apologize.

“Sorry...I’ll be more careful from now on.” You said softly in shame.

“Hmph! If you understand that then you can do me a favor and stop being a problem. As much as I want to say that we’re our own people, we’re still connected. So if you end up dying then that’ll, in turn, bring me down along with you. And I don’t particularly want to experience dying after having to refresh my memories bit by bit these past two years on who I’m really am.” Shakuren turns her back, folding her arms in response.

“So since we’re cool now. Does that mean-” You trail off, picking yourself up as that smile was coming now.

“Don’t say it,” Shakuren demands.

>>4160652

“-We’re like super besties only closer since we share the same body.” You smile, going as far as to nearly hug Shakuren to which she squirms in annoyance.

“Aargh. You’re making me starting to regret agreeing on this alliance. “ Shakuren mutters.

“Come on, say it with me. My BFF!” You ask enthusiastically, irises forming into stars as you ooze out a starstruck charm of innocence much to Shakuren’s greater grimace.

“No,” Shakuren says, narrowing her eyes.

“Okay how about mom then?” You playfully asks. “After all, according to you, that would make you-”

“.Hell no!” Shakuren barks, cutting you off before you could say anything further.

“Don’t be like that. Shakuren. Or should I say, Tsunderen.~” You smile wider, moving side to side as Shakuren starts pushing you away.

“I said stop it!” Shakuren screams.

>How do you proceed?


>Head back to the surface and see what has happened since blacking out
>Try to get Shakuren to teach you how to use your demonic powers [write-in what you want to know specifically]
>Ask Shakuren about the inherent memory and her ontake on Mizugami Kagura
>Take the time and rest, leaving things for Shakuren for a while longer till your ready
>Other [write-in]

[Author’s Notes: I’ll cover the remaining question/Shakuren’s terms in the next post. This ended up being longer than what I’d originally intended. But with the hurdle out of the way, you essentially become BFFs with your inner demon. So some additional boons will be made known in the future.]

>>4160666
>>Ask Shakuren about the inherent memory and her ontake on Mizugami Kagura
Bully bully bully.

>>4160666
>>Head back to the surface and see what has happened since blacking out

Wouldn't be surprise if our friends somehow managed to bind us, and tied us to a tree or something.

>>4160666
>Ask Shakuren about the inherent memory and her ontake on Mizugami Kagura
What about sister? I think that's a fair middle ground between BFF and mom.

>>4160666
>Ask Shakuren about the inherent memory and her ontake on Mizugami Kagura

>>4160672
>>4160685
>>4161895

Sorry to have been silent, been absent due to spring cleaning and anti-coronavirus proofing my home. Going to try and get the post done in a couple of hours since I'm halfway done.

But for what's coming next. I'm going to need you guys to roll me a d20. Just the one this time.

Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>4165649

Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>4165649

Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>4165649

>>4165649

It was rather strange that until just a moment ago you didn’t give a second thought to Shakuren. At best you didn’t think of her a sentient being and more a cluster of your dark emotion given tangible form. Yet here you are currently teasing the demonic entity. Despite having a rather touching moment with your other self, looking past their demonic influence and accepting them for who they really are. However, there was still one thing still fresh on your mind, the memory of your grandma and her mysterious comrade. Not only the fact you have such a thing in your head was alarming but the fact it carried new groundbreaking lore to your family’s tradition and a personal look on your hardass grandma added a new perspective. Wanting to get the opinion of your other self you told Shakuren the entirety of your experience in the dream-like memory. Including the fact that some of the audio of your dream was unable to be heard, briefly alarming Shakuren in the discussion.

“Inherent memories? You mean what Grandma Gurren told you when you were a child. I’d say the concept of passing on living memories to your descendants was ludicrous but considering that prior to breaking out of Muzan’s control there were brief flashes of memories not our own coursing through our mind. So at this point, anything is possible. Still, if it awakened to a time like this then it must have been important. Memories don’t flashback out of nowhere for no reason.“ Shakuren ponders, stroking her chin as she was deep in thought. A thought that ended on her making a slight shift in her eyes. “You seeing mother’s appearance prior makes me believe that all of this was connected in some form or manner. And not just your body trying to save you in a life or death scenario.”

“Anyway, I think its best to not mess with those inherent memories right now. I may look into them later and figure out why some of it is inaudible to you. But it won’t be on the top of my to-do list since I have higher priorities. Like not burning up in the sunlight whenever our demon half is fully exposed due to excessive energy. Or be zapped of strength when dealing with wisteria flowers. You know, things that are vital to our survival and our main goals. “ Shakuren interjects, appearing more like a stern mom or big sister in this case as she reigns you in.

Seeing her show a concern look before nonchalantly brushed you off made you uncertain if there was something she wasn’t telling but you didn’t feel the need to press her. Her logic was sound and didn’t contradict itself. “Hmm, okay you bring up a good point. But sooner or later we’ll need to look through those memories and uncovered what they really mean. For now, I’ll just explain to you what I gather from that experience.”

>>4166399

Upon reflecting back to how it felt to see and experience the dance for yourself did you begin telling Shakuren about Mizugami Kagura. Going as far as to even show the dark-skinned statuesque shaman the sacred family dance in motion. In your mind, you visualize showing the twelve dances, something that she was already aware of as “Byakuren”. Only after getting a better grasp of the subconscious did you start to manifest the Shichishitō in hand. Soon after did you try those steps again. This time in back to backorder with the general breath patterns of the Total Concentration Breathing and the basics that serve as the prerequisites of Kyūkyūden Jōkohō. Doing so brought forth the same cryogenic vapor and reflective glittering lights that' give up the silvery blue flame-like luminescent.

Giving off a rather serene and mystical aura around you, illuminating the scenery like a moonlight waltz. With every swing and initiation of movement through shifts in force you found yourself getting better at performing the art. Your motions becoming smoother and more focused than the last. Having the memory of that magical moment burning in your retinas made sure to keep the experience fresh and close to your heart. Shakuren, on the other hand, gave a stern gaze as she digests the information being fed upon watching your passionate dancing. The arcs of silvery-blue flame were intertwining with one another, each one taking a different shape from crescent to full circular shapes in this wave of glittering beauty. The flow of the move carrying strong gravitational pressure around your center of gravity, influencing the revolution effect around you thus simulating the flowmotion of the moon’s attraction & repulsion of the tides. All the more captivating both the night and the water deity Mizugami herself.

“Mizugami Kagura. So, the Shinto ritual dance is based on actual swordsmanship and breath styles. Considering how our family breathing arts are already compatible with the Breath Style of the demon slayers, I can’t say that I’m surprised by this reveal. Where it comes from does slightly pique my curiosity, however, I’m not particularly in a rush to find out. Not to mention, last time I’d check you haven’t exactly mastered said Kagura dances given how strenuous the acrobatics and footwork is. Same goes for the Kyūkyūden Jōkohō, so using them together for the full benefit is far out of your skill range.” Shakuren hypothesis, watching you eventually coming to a stop as you catch your breath.

>>4166400

Feeling rather study despite your lengthy performance, you cross your arms over your head and look up to the night sky. “Where’s your sense of adventure? Don’t you think re-learning your family techniques through a memory of the past is enough motivation to be excited? And besides, I’ve been practicing this style since I was six years old. I might not be at the level of Grandma or Sakura-nee but don’t cut my skills short. After all, I didn’t manage to pull off multiple combinations moves in nigh-perfect harmony back to back and use a brand new breath style just moments after hearing about it.” You smirk proudly, placing your hands on your hips in a boastful pose, puffing up to further reflect on your talents.

Staring blankly at you before signing at your childish antics, Shakuren turns her attention to the pond to look at the moon’s reflection. “Don’t get a big head Byakuren. Remember the fact you haven’t even mastered Breath of Fire yet. And now you want to switch to using a style that for all intent purposes is notoriously physically demanding on you. If it wasn’t for your training and physical conditioning, you’d be feeling the full cumulative, physical damage and trauma running rampant on your body. Just cause you learned Breath of Water, the easiest style to learn in the Demon Slayer corps doesn’t mean you’re some sort of dancing phenomenon.”

Puffing your cheeks into a pout, you start to stand your ground as you pat your chest with a loud slap. “You worry too much Shaku-nee! If there’s one thing I’d learn from training from Master Jingo is that I’m tough. Perhaps the toughest there is, like a cockroach. I can take anything anyone throws at me and bounce right back ready for more. Plus I’m half-demon so in addition to being better athletically built for the art, my regenerative properties will mend away the strain and recover my stamina. Thus I can just power through it like everything it else with brute force.” You argue, still pouting at being taken lightly by your other half.

“First off, Shaku-nee? Really? Secondly, I can’t believe you’re making me of all people say this but you can’t get through life simply brute forcing everything. Lastly, and this is the most important part, you’re still half human. Just because you have abnormal resilience and toughness, it doesn’t change the fact you’re still human. Just a lot tougher than the average human. So I’d like for it to at least be aware of your mortality and not overstress your body. At least to the point where you’d force a sudden shutdown. “ Shakuren retorts, shooting you down after staring blankly in deadpan expression. She wasn’t convinced much to your grimace. Turning to look upwards, Shakuren relaxes into a solemn if not a bit somber expression. “Also, isn’t there something else you want to obtain.”

>>4166403

Hearing her ask you about what else you wanted to learn made you instinctively think back to your fight with Jingo. How for a short moment when Shakuren was in control she managed to manifest two different flames around her. A deep vermillion flame on her left, and a matching azure flame on her right. Crackling her surroundings with rampant energy as her body temperature fluctuates between absolute zero and scorching inferno (absolute hot) constantly. Between that and the combat form that she spewed effortlessly shows that Shakuren was far more knowledgable and in tune to her demonic powers than you. But there was something else about it that you weren’t sure. It almost like Shakuren was...sulking. It might just be your mind thinking otherwise but you kept yourself quiet to let your other self explain herself.

“San'andomūn, it’s the Blood Demon Art that you sacrificed our lifeforce over in addition to greatly augmenting our physiology and general demonic abilities. It might not be your family inherence but its still equally powerful if not arguably more so. It’s still incomplete but at its current development still notoriously potent in every aspect. And it’ll only get stronger as time goes on as your body better attunes to the demonic energy coursing through you. If I’d have to guess how much you can handle right now, I’d say just the basic body temperature aspect of the art’s Bio-Thermokinesis.” Shakuren explains briefly.

>How do you proceed

>Force your priorities on learning San'andomūn and being in touch with your inner demon
>Focus your priorities on improving Mizugami Kagura and being in touch with your Miko heritage
>Try to balance the two dualities and ask Shakuren to help you find common ground for both
>Choose neither for now and focus on furthering your basics and strengthening your physical condition
>Other [write-in]

[Author’s Notes: Another intermission before the plot drop. Sorry for having it feel like a crawl. But this is too important to skim off.]

>>4166408
>Choose neither for now and focus on furthering your basics and strengthening your physical condition

>>4166408
>>Try to balance the two dualities and ask Shakuren to help you find common ground for both

>>4166408
>>Choose neither for now and focus on furthering your basics and strengthening your physical condition

We regularly collapse when we try to go hard and fast. Either of advanced options is going ultra-hard and ultra-fast.

So work on our stamina first.

>>4166408
>>Choose neither for now and focus on furthering your basics and strengthening your physical condition

>>4166408

>Try to balance the two dualites and ask Shakuren to help you find common ground for both.

Let's hear her opinion on this and see how we should move forward. We're a half breed for a reason so we shouldn't pick one over the other.

But i do agree on making this our main priority.

>Choose neither for now and focus on our basics and strengthening our physical condition.

There demon like Muzan who almost never used their blood arts and became total powerhouse with just the basics. So let's take our training to the utmost degree and become Ms fundamental. Also mastering our version of the breath of Flames should also be a feasible goal.

>>4166408
>Try to balance the two dualities and ask Shakuren to help you find common ground for both

>Choose neither for now and focus on furthering your basics and strengthening your physical condition

>>4166524
>>4166593
>>4166737
>>4167062
>>4167077

Looks like I'm doing both. For future reference, when I ask for rolls outside of what's happening prior. I'll make sure to specific rather they're an impending event changed like a sudden enemy or surprise element, or it's for off-screen training.

Once again you can commit in story-time training if you so desire for any specifics or other forms of management but this setting is going to have a lot of periods of training during downtime or in between missions and to move things along we're going the canon/one piece route of off screening it.

Either way, if you want to roll for the training results later then go for it. 3d20s to see how well you do.

Rolled 6, 14, 10 = 30 (3d20)

>>4167115

Rolled 13, 15, 17 = 45 (3d20)

>>4167115

Rolled 17, 11, 8 = 36 (3d20)

>>4167115

Rolled 2, 15, 2 = 19 (3d20)

>>4167115

>>4167115

Training regiment will follow a strict regiment of 10,000 Hindu Squats and Spearhand training on hard objects and surfaces including wood, bamboo, rocks and metal even if our fingers our broken. And practicing swordsmanship

Rolled 15, 12, 2 = 29 (3d20)

>>4167115

>>4167115

Listening to that brief discussion gave you food for thought on your progression. From as long as you can remember when you put your mind on something there was nothing that can stop you. Almost like a double edge sword, that kind of dedication and persistence leads you to go into it gungho. As hard and fast as a speeding training the virtue of patience wasn’t something that you practice in moderation until recently. Even then it was only in the bare minimum. Safe to say with how you progressed with the demon-slaying training that you tend to lack the mental fortitude to restrain yourself before collapsing. A recurring problem that you couldn’t continue to ignore and power through. When you really think about it, its no wonder that in terms of Yōma that the demonic aspect would be the specific form of oni aka ogress. Stubbornness goes hand and hand with might and force.

But even if you built your life bouncing back from adversity, and more importantly surviving the countless sprees of training from hell on multiple occasions through sheer tenacity. There was a point where you weren’t going to keep being lucky. Sooner or later that adversity is going to stick and drag you down to rock bottom. Here you stand holding the knowledge of not one but three ancient arts with the third being an equivalent through cost. And yet it wouldn’t put it past you that the core aspect came from some unknown element in your subconscious. If inherent memories can be a legitimate thing then anything is game in your eyes. Nevertheless, you couldn’t be careless and power through one of the two paths. Your human half representing Mizugami Kagura and your demon half with San'andomūn. Two highly advanced styles that you currently couldn’t bring out consistently without coughing up a lung...figuratively.
Thinking about the pros and cons of each style, your head starts to shake frantically at trying to weight the importance of either. Mildly confusing Shakuren in the act. To you, it was impossible to fathom on deciding which one should be on top of the hierarchy chain. You’re Byakuren Shimizu, a Miko and demon slayer, human and demon, child and adult, etc. The fact your entire being is one big duality painted it home that you didn’t need to pick over the other nor you should you. You just got done talking to Shakuren about the importance of both of you making up the true Byakuren. Like Yin and Yang, these two opposite forces surely can co-exist in perfect harmony. No, you were going to make sure that was to become your reality. That said, this was certainly something that you couldn’t do on your own.

>>4168317

“Alright, I’ve decided. Rather than choose either technique, I’m going to do my best to work hard to make them both valued treasures in the arsenal. And I’ll need your help on this Shaku-nee.” You said, offering your hand to Shakuren’s shoulders. Watching her turn to you as you meet her with a closed-eyed smile. “After all, those arts represent us and picking just one wouldn’t bring out the best Byakuren Shimizu that we can be.”

Staring at you discombobulated, Shakuren quickly rises from her sulking session to exaggerated scream out a “huh?!” sound in distress. “What’s wrong with you. Saying that you want to keep both Mizugami Kagura & San'andomūn together. Not only that but training to bring out the very best in both arts. That’s too greedy!” Shakuren argues, nearly fuming at the scene as subtle shades of blush shows on her rosy cheeks.

“You think so? Well, I guess I’ve gotten rather voracious thanks to this constant, ravenous hunger of ours. I’m not sure” You blink, scratching the side of your nose while being humble.

“About that. The food that you so happened to store in you through your little magic trick...it’s-” Shakuren mentions, getting cut off by your sudden invasion in her personal space, causing her to real back in annoyance.

“I call it Gōdōshōhi aka Fusionist Consumer actually.” You smile, pointing with your index finger in sassy fashion.

“Whatever. Point is thanks to your blood donation and the blood rage we’ve essentially burn through our entire supply for the week.”

“...You’re kidding me. I didn’t think it would be possible to burn through thirty-five meals plus the emergency food stored in.” You question, giving a dumbfoundedly shocked look before being impressed at how much your body burned through. Proving once again the benefit of your body allowing you to eat a seemingly unlimited amount of food without feeling strained or gaining a single pound. Instinctively you made a giddy smile, irking Shakuren in the process.
“Don’t be proud of that.” Shakuren barks, poking you on the side of your face before stopping with a sigh. “Know what? Just forget about it. We’ll worry about food later. Right now it should go without question that if you want to balance the two forces inside of you and learn those advance moves then you need to go back to basics. A sound mind in a sound body is the only way you’re going to have any hope of making those moves your own outside of your mind. Ain’t a no better time than the present to get start training on what you can do and improve on what you’re lacking.”

>>4168318

“Mhm, right. Before I attempt either of those arts I never to better improve and refine what I do know. Along with better improving my physical body through stronger conditioning. As you explain my demonic powers are far too much for my human body to keep up. So the only way I can truly attune to them is to strengthen it. The less likely I am to passing out after using my demon powers the more reliable I’ll be in the heat of battle.” You nodding in agreement, looking to yourself in great detail at the abundant increase in demonic power.

“Good, sounds like you’re starting to get it. If you can master The Breath of Flames, including the Onibi variant and Total Concertation Breathing, then those three advanced arts will become feasible for a runt like you to pull off consistently in long durations without any lost in effectiveness or efficiency. “ Shakuren says, folding her arms and closing her eyes in approval.

“Right.” You nodded.

“And your general swordsmanship could you some serious work. I honestly can’t tell if your a genuine swordswoman or just a brute swinging your club.” “And let’s not go over your taijutsu skills. You need to seriously brush up on them and remember the arts grandma taught us. Like Bajiquan. And not just goofing off with ancient sumo.”

“I’m sorry- Wait a minute. Why are you giving a hard time over how I fight?! Aren’t you literally using a metal spiked club over there.” You whine and argue, pointing at the kanabō to the side.

“Yes, I’m a demon. Swordsmanship is human concepts. Even then I know the importance of not wasting any motions and keeping awareness of the point of the interval as well as the initiation of movements. Like that socially inept statuesque girl you struck out talking to.”

“You mean Ozaki? What does she have to do with it?” You ask, tilting your head in confusion like an owl.

Pinching her eyebrows with a sigh, Shakuren turns her head from you. “Right, since you couldn’t tell I’ll explain it to you. She was sensing our motion, position, and balance through our body inputs. From the slightest twitch, that brat uses a sense that most people aren’t even aware of its existence. Yet it’s just as important if not more so than the five senses. It’s called Proprioception and Orientation. She got fine control of her body.”

“So she was feeling us up like Eniosuke, but without actually having to touch us. Man, I’ve met quite a bunch of unusual characters but meeting people who can control their bodies like movable dolls really takes the cake.” You reflect, awkwardly chuckling at the realization you were once again being undressed by another of your compatriots. With how thorough each of them being in your own way you suddenly slump over to the corner feeling incredible amounts of melancholy. Once again you were reminded of exactly what you lost during this exam.

>>4168319

Choosing to ignore your melodrama, Shakuren returns to looking back at the water pond as she explains. “Well yes and no. What that pinhead can do is more akin to contortionist stuff with rearranging his body and altering the flow to produce a series of different yet desirable effects. With his sense of touch, it’s not unsurprising that he came close to the girl’s level of control over her tone regulation and equilibrium. She’s in full awareness of her instincts and tamed them to the point of achieving multitasking in perfect coordination while anticipating the next course of action before it even comes. Muscle tone and position sense in a union, producing kinaesthesia, a sense of body position movement and poise. And to do it consciously too…” Shakuren pauses, making a rather serious expression. One that soon turns to joyous laughter.

“Is something wrong?” You ask, snapping out of your funk to notice the rising tension from your other half.

“Oh, nothing. Just thinking about how I’ve wanted to have a real fight with that wolf in sheep’s clothing. An opponent of that caliber may actually make me break a sweat and get a real workout. I haven’t been in control of this body for two whole years. So my inputs are rusty and rigid.” Shakuren chuckles, making a rather battle-manic expression through her smile. She was showing off her lust for battle as you felt a bit uneasy feeling those strong, violent impulses coursing through Shakuren’s aura. Luckily she would catch herself in the act and temper her emotions with a series of deep breaths. Just what exactly did she do while you were out?

“Alright so back to your question. Where are we exactly is currently inside a large, dark cave last time I checked. After consuming countless demons, it’s only natural that I would have us station in somewhere safe where I can properly rest and acclimate the coursing power of the demons we have eaten so far into pure nourishment and replenish our blood while retaining its purity. “ Shakuren coughs.

“That makes enough sense as well as cover your main objective. But I’m confused, based on your pattern so far wouldn’t you just keep yourself hidden in the cave and just let our body naturally replenish itself like normal?” You ask, tilting further in confusion.

“You’d think that but no. What you did so far ended up endangering our very being more than you feel the need. Having our drawn by a power-lusting glutton has shot up our blood amount expediently. To stabilize ourselves I had to consume a serious number of demons, but it wasn’t my first choice in the matter.” Shakuren laments.

“Okay, I get that, but if it wasn’t your first choice then why eat demons?”

>>4168322

“Well, it was like an instructional message from our subconscious. Manifesting itself as very strong stimuli controlling the impulses and influencing even me to a certain degree. By the time I realized exactly what was going on, we’ve eaten roughly more than a dozen demons. Had it been my original plan, it was to keep secluded and go into a state of hibernation-like meditation so I could address the problem accordingly.” Shakuren explains, getting rather accustomed to her sage-like role as your big sister. “Right now, our blood potency and output is that of a high-leveled demon. This is bad for you since you barely have the skills and finesse to be considered a low-level demon, still, when it comes to the brute force aspect you’re no different than that of an Intermediate-level demon.”

“This is the first time you talked about demon hierarchy. It must be one of your demon instincts filling you in like Keimi.” You chimed, brushing off that low-key criticism as there was no malice or ill-will in her words.

“My demon knowledge is limited since you know, being forcibly imprinted by you on multiple occasions during my take over. Thanks for that.” Shakuren mentions, staring at you rather sternly with cold eyes.

“...Right, I’m sorry.” You muttered, nearly mewing as you tilt your head. Her mom’s side was showing.

“Whatever. With what I do know there’s a demon hierarchy between demons. There are the newborn demons who range from just recently turning to eat about a few people, then there are the low-level demons otherwise known as the average run of the mill demons. These demons have managed to eat at least a baker’s dozen of demons, with some going as far to hit a score of people or more. That’s twenty people for the record.”

Turning to face you, you see Shakuren’s pupils returning to look more demonic. Painting the gravity of the situation as you quietly listen to her explanation. “Next comes the more seasoned demons, demons who been at it for quite a long time in human years. They’re known as the Intermediate-Level Demon. Unlike low levels who began showing demonstrations of their demon heritage, intermediate demons have scraped pass the surface and further tapped into their demonic potential. Demons of this caliber have eaten their scores of humans as they come closer to reaching the hundred mark. With the amount of power that they carry it is at this stage that they’re capable of achieving powerful supernatural feats, including that of Blood Demon Arts. Spell-like abilities that allow demons to perform special powers unique to that of the resonating demon. They are the stuff of folklore as some can downright redefine the laws that govern this reality or so I’m assuming.”

>>4168325

“As for high-level demons, they are considered the vanguard of the demon hierarchy. Seasoned veterans who last for many decades if not a hundred years at least. These demons have eaten over a hundred humans and can be seen as the pinnacle of the demon’s innate potency and overall capabilities. It’s no surprise that these figures have managed to refine themselves to the point of nigh-mastery of their demonic abilities and blood demon arts. These are the demons you most likely expect to be the general cause of those folklore and legends.” Shakuren exclaims, pausing just a bit before she would mention Muzan’s name. Anxiety was creeping up on the rough and tough Shakuren, causing her to place her hand right at the wound where Muzan shot you. Straight in the chest, directly towards the heart.

“If those high-level demons are just as sensational as they are in those stories then I’d hate to consider just how strong Muzan Kibutsuji” You mutter, slowly coming to terms that series of folklore that you heard from your mother was coming true one by one. You’d be excited over it if this didn’t mean dealing with some serious malice along the way. “Wait, didn’t you criticize about showing fear and hesitation when we first met? Isn’t that hypocritical that you’re feeling that same feeling now.” You ask half-serious and half teasing.

“Of course I’m frantic you idiot! As much as I hate admitting it, as we are now we don’t stand a chance at fighting him. It’ll be like a fighting a beetle to a man, a recently graduated beetle from anthood. Or a cockroach considering how tenacious you are.” Shakuren screams, blowing your white hair in the air as you barely kept your eyes open from her booming voice. You managed to rile up the sleeping tiger from her cage.

“Hey if being steadfast and tenacious are my only good points then you sure as heck best believe I’d take pride in being stalwart if not a bit stubborn.” You smile, proudly puffing your chest and taking Shakuren’s comment in stride. Causing her to let out another sigh and turn her face away in disgust. Her expression scream “Was I really that dumb originally?”

“A bit? Try to the point of absurdity. Seriously you’re notoriously hard to put down. But to get back on topic, Muzan is a callous man who has the power to back up his tyranny. For instance, he can bend demons to his will and downright destroy them effortlessly without lifting a single finger. That’s just one of the many otherworldly abilities that his power as the progenitor of all Demons, the demon lord Muzan carries. After all, it was he who made it practically impossible for demons to team up with one another.” Shakuren explains, going into detail about Muzan’s antics. It soon dawns upon you just how this was connected to the cannibalism. Thus causing your face to turn pale.

File: b60a2f63d9495cc53492d5a07(...).png (869 KB, 733x1000)

869 KB PNG

>>4168328

“In addition to being highly territorial and fighting over both prey and potential hunting grounds, they are driven to cannibalize each other for greater strength and more quantities of Muzan’s blood. His blood carries special properties that strengthen demons, even if it’s from an outside source like a fellow demon it brings forth a serious boost in performance and capabilities. With the direct source being the most potent in terms of growth stimulation and boosting effects. To think we inherited such a curse from him…” As Shakuren explains this, your chest starts to tingle as tattoos start to form around your cleavage area and belly button. A familiar burning sensation was exuding throughout your body.
“Curse...what are you saying? I thought me turning into a half-demon meant that I broke whatever influence he did to us.” You manage to say out before clinching your chest from the pain.

“Right, you were asleep during the time. During my blood rage, I came to notice something was off during the hunt. No matter where I’d go it was rather easy for me to find demons to snack upon. And only when the blood from the neck wound from earlier was exposed, it only greatly intensified the beckoning call. Back then when I thought I was instinctively tracking demons, in truth it was actually the demons who were attracted by us and knew our location instantly.” Shakuren reminisces, thinking far back to the past forty-eight hours.

“Isn’t that just the Marechi aka intoxication blood kicking in? “

“It’s something more than mere Marechi blood. I don’t know precisely how he did it but somewhere in our bloodstream is a component that merged with our marechi element, cultivated it and elevate it to while our body acclimates to it. But it was still dormant. That is until you stressed put our demonic reserves, forcing our body to go into overdrive to replace the blood we lost. Hence why we ascended in output to a high-level demon. Well, to be more specific I did.”

>How do you respond

>Rush back to the surface and try to control your breathing before stabilizing
>Leave it up to Shakuren and ask her if there’s any way to remedy this
>Try to find where the contamination is located and attempt to purify yourself
>Other [write-in]

>>4168345

Forgot

>Try to once again make Muzan's power your own and draw more strength as you stabilize yourself.

>>4168345
>Rush back to the surface and try to control your breathing before stabilizing

>>4168345
>>Rush back to the surface and try to control your breathing before stabilizing

>>4168345
>>Rush back to the surface and try to control your breathing before stabilizing

>>4168345
>Try to once again make Muzan's power your own and draw more strength as you stabilize yourself.

>>4168399
>>4168414
>>4169273
>>4169277

Slowly everything starts to go dark for you as the tattoo burns fiercely from within while manifesting itself properly. Feeling that intense pain striking deep inside your chest you suddenly collapse to your knees, almost writhing in pain. A feeling that you almost thought was completely gone was returning with a seething vengeance. Constant fighting against the rampant pulsating and convulsion you steel your mind and power through the osculations. You didn’t need Shakuren to say anything about what was going on. It was coming to you rather quickly regardless if you want it to or not. If it really was Muzan’s curse making yet another attempt at trying to disrupt your rhythm and control you than you needed to get that problem under wraps immediately.

Focusing your consciousness towards the surface quickly brought you back to the outside world. Followed by another sharp, throbbing pain you clinched your chest tightly while biting down on your lips to keep yourself from screaming. Being back on the outside made the pain you were feeling all the more excruciating with each passing second. Never before did you wanted to scream as you do with now. Looking just barely around your surroundings, eyes darting rapidly in between fighting the urge to slant further from the wincing, you in fact saw yourself still in the cave. Damp, deep and dark it was a sufficient enough hiding spot for your body to underwent another metamorphosis.

Turning your attention to the task at hand you gritted your teeth and start pushing past the pain. Forcing yourself to start taking some deep breaths and stabilizing your frantic heart rate and sonic stimulation of your flesh through the escalating oscillation. Stretching your lungs to their utmost limit you draw in as much fresh air into your body with tremendous sucking power. After that, you follow up by slowly exhaling, through the nose with your mouth continues to inhale. In response to your deep, focused breaths your body’s muscles and blood vessels crackle in excitement. Hurring to scurry your muscles and bones quickly start heating themselves up as your body temperature soon follows suit. Spiking temperatures and accelerating blood circulating was the last step needed to begin the purging.

File: 0a92de83a28d21aed2f5db941(...).png (4.23 MB, 1690x2000)

4.23 MB PNG

>>4170011

Inspired by reverse breathing it was another one of the nine breathing techniques of Kyūkyūden Jōkohō. This one, in particular, focused on strengthening the immune system, purifying the body of any toxins or alienating effects ( viruses and negative bacteria) while enhancing the body’s natural healing ability. Naturally, it also increases the lung capacity and helped with meditation but then so did all nine breathing techniques. Currently, you can only muster of doing the full benefit of Kyūkyūden Jōkohō through Total Breathing Concertation without your lungs collapsing afterward. Even so, it still came with additional stress to your respiratory system and wasn’t something that can be done in long periods without great repercussions. Nevertheless, it was starting to show an effect against the ailment.

Spending the next thirty minutes of constant application stabilizes the body, and stalling the effects of the burning corruption to a standstill. Before you had the chance to expunge the bundle of corruptive blood cells out of you you feel something else happing inside. Those clusters of corruptive blood cells began to purify and dissolve. Although the tattoo on your chest and lower abdomen area remain, the burning sensation and other bodily pain receded until they faded away entirely. Soon you would feel your body returning to normal with the last of the source dissipating. Only once the close was clear did you collapse back on to the ground. Getting away with light wheezing, your haggard breathing still remains in a state of stability. Compared to the alternative you can deal with being tired during the duration it took for your body to recover.

After taking some more laboring breaths, you took a look at the smooth surface to look at your physical appearance. Currently, you resemble more of yourself in your default appearance. The only difference was still the physique of your combat form still being present, two red horns to the backside of your head and a caramel-like chocolate hue on your skin pigment. If it wasn’t for the horns you could still pass for a human being. Sure, a rather statuesque bulky brute at over two hundred centimeters, but it was better than fully looking like a demon.

>How do you proceed?

>Try to see if you can walk outside in the sunlight.
>Contact Shakuren and ask her opinion on what just happened
>Collpase back onto the ground and take a quick nap to recover
>Force yourself to suppress your excess demonic energy to return to normal
>Other [write-in]

>>4170013
>>Try to see if you can walk outside in the sunlight.
>>Contact Shakuren and ask her opinion on what just happened

>>4170030
+

>>4170013
>>Try to see if you can walk outside in the sunlight.

>>4170030
>>4170043
>>4170075

Alright, since we're going with this give me a d20 roll. Time to temp fate.

Rolled 15 (1d20)

>>4171223

Rolled 16 (1d20)

>>4171223

Rolled 15 (1d20)

>>4171223

>>4171227
>>4171240
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=htDB8SuLrng

Rolled 4 (1d20)

>>4171223

Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>4171223

>>4171223

Once your labored breathing finally receded and stability was established did you slowly pull yourself off from the ground. Taking just a little bit to get used to your new mass you find yourself stumbling a bit in the process. Previously being only one hundred and ninety centimeters was hard enough to deal with, but here you stand as a two hundred and twenty-two feminine beefcake, making it exceptionally difficult moving. And to think you’re still smaller than previously when Shakuren was behind the wheel. Power was coursing through your entire body, causing your muscles to subtly oscillate in high frequency. Just touching the surface of the wall was enough to cause it to shake violently as debris fall from the ceiling.

Hitting you on the head, specifically around the horns as they let out a soft ringing sound. Wincing a bit from the vibration you force yourself upwards on both legs. Just like how you adjusted to your new adult body during training, you power through by brute force. Step by step your body moves accordingly as you think back to how the sunlight weighted you down like heavyweights. Again it was probably due to you not fully attuned to the combat mode like Shakuren. Even so, you rather handle this yourself than just rely on your other half. Surely she must be having her own duties handling your body from the inside out. Keeping up the slow but steady movements lead you to finally stepping out of the long, dark cave and into the sunlight.

Hands out first for safety purpose you carefully stick your arms out into the sunlight. Much to your suspicious and surprise your skin starts to ache deeply upon being exposed by the sunlight. Actually aching was an understatement as burns start to form around your hands. Instinctively you pull your hands from the sunlight and back into the cave. Blowing deeply against your first degree burns in comedic crying fashion you turn your eyes back to the sunlight. Unsurprisingly you were suffering from the sun’s rays thanks to the abundant amount of demonic blood and by proxy bioenergy flowing through you. If you were back to normal the sun wouldn’t be affecting you beyond slight lethargy.

Surely the smart thing to do was to go back to the cave and burn off the excessive demonic energy until you return back to standard half-demoness. Unfortunately, you weren’t known to back down from adversity. Stubbornness was your boon just as much as your bane. So why stop now? Gritting your teeth, clenching your derriere and tensing your muscles you brace yourself accordingly. Once given yourself enough time to ready itself, you resume entering the sunlight hands first. Yet again you were met with the same agonizing burning sensation as your hands break out into rashes before burning. Soon it spreads throughout your body the further you went into the sunlight. Before long you were letting your body be completely enveloped in the sun’s harmful rays.

>>4174018

Immediately after you feel your legs starting to tremble as your body fights the urge to buckle down. Elongated teeth and tongue throbbed in great pain followed by uncontrollable acidic drooling. Compulsions and pulsations spread throughout your body along with an intense burning itch as blood veins appear. Your head started to pound loudly with a splitting headache with your equilibrium going out of control. Every single cell in your body was screaming in pain as the common symptoms of a heatstroke start to manifest. Your primal, demonic instincts were telling you to go back into the cave and avoid the sun at all costs. However, through the strength of will, you forcibly plant your feet deep into the ground and remain within the sun’s rays. Overpowering your survival instincts and demonic impulses you continue your harmful acts of stubbornness.

Thankfully such actions would bear fruit as you really on your resilience to tank the damage and reduce it over time. In a constant act of regenerating through the pain, your body starts to rediscover its resistance and develop it further to adapt to the sun’s rays. Much like the muscle’s ability to go stronger so too did your entire body under this continuous cycle of destruction and reconstruction. Creating cells at an alarming rate, your body steadily walk towards the path of rebirth to ensure its survival. Reinforcing and strengthening the body brought forth new optimizations as the pain starts to fade. Before your skin reached to its limit and reaching the danger zone, the escalating sunburn suddenly stops. For some reason, it couldn’t burn your skin any further as the second-degree burns start to heal.

>>4174021

Through bloodshot demonic eyes, you look at the damage slowly fading away from your body as it regenerates. Although it was far slower than the near-instant regeneration you grew accustomed to, it was operating far faster than it has any right to be. As if undergoing through this hellish experience allows your body to acclimate accordingly before further accumulating to the rising development. Dropping down to your knees you return to giving out fast, raspy breathing and deep coughs. Your previous symptoms fading close to the speed they arrive once your body calms down. Eventually, the wounds on your body disappeared entirely as your body sweats feverishly to cool itself. Leaving you to bask in the sunlight no longer feeling in pain. But, it didn’t change the fact that you were still rather sluggish and notoriously heavier in the sun’s presence. As if you were weighing eight times the normal weight that slowed you down.

Grinning from your achievements you start to feel your eyes becoming every as your vision begins to fade.

>How do you proceed

>Stubbornly push yourself further to accumulate to the demonic energy and adapt to the sun through evolution
>Take a break and let your body recover in the shade with a small nap
>Eat whatever you can find to recover your stamina and fight off the urge to sleep
>Try to Siphon the sun’s energy to restore yourself and adapt to it
>Other [write-in]

>>4174027
>>Try to Siphon the sun’s energy to restore yourself and adapt to it

>>4174027
>>Try to Siphon the sun’s energy to restore yourself and adapt to it
HAMON OVERDRIVEU

>>4174027
>Try to Siphon the sun’s energy to restore yourself and adapt to it

I hope our friends are alright.

>>4174027
>Try to Siphon the sun’s energy to restore yourself and adapt to it

>>4174061
>>4174073
>>4174111
>>4174122

Okay, this is going to be interesting. Doing a 3d20 roll for this to emulate a best of three-shot for this dangerous and reckless stunt.

Rolled 12, 15, 9 = 36 (3d20)

>>4174192

Rolled 18, 14, 15 = 47 (3d20)

>>4174192

Rolled 9, 13, 15 = 37 (3d20)

>>4174192

Rolled 12, 13, 9 = 34 (3d20)

>>4174192

Rolled 2, 17, 17 = 36 (3d20)

>>4174192

File: 1517935663_tumblr_owwe5cr(...).gif (1.52 MB, 500x281)

1.52 MB GIF

>>4174226

Well then. Looks like we're going full shonen in these parks.

>>4174192

Forcing yourself to endure the unrelenting pain until your body developed a thick enough hide to resist the burn certainly to a notorious amount of energy. And your body was already worn out from transforming into combat mode and trying to acclimate to the constant surge of flesh demon blood pumping through your body. All things considered, it was only natural that you would start to feel the after-effects of your actions. Still, your mind begins to recall the lesson that your master Jingo deeply beat into you last year. Even if the sun wasn’t a problem for you at the moment, passing out in unknown territory is just asking for trouble. Not to mention you didn’t know how long you’ll fall asleep. And if you have your way you weren’t going to let that scenario come to fruition.

Thinking fast your turn your dull, lifeless eyes towards the only light source you can find. The sun. Looking at that glowing ball of orangish-yellow hue struck a chord with your mind. You weren’t sure why but you feel like if the sun was the cause of your problem, then it would be the sun that gets you out of it. Using your remaining strength you try to siphon the sun’s rays into your body and go into photosynthesis. Having siphoned the moonlight for so long and similar energies made you rather confident that you can finally handle the sun. What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger after all. At first, you feel the sun’s rays slowly coming your way, but once it begins to sink into your flesh did you start to feel something off. Your stamina was slowly recovering but a familiar burning sensation starts to envelop inside of you.

Before you had the time to take back your decision your body suddenly goes into spontaneous combustion. Like an “inside-out” you were feeling your body burn from the inside from the intense heat temperatures rising absurdly. Using your own body fat and oils as the fuel source the seething burning sensation went on like wildfire inside your entire body. Evaporation of bodily fluids, nausea, delirium, cognitive disequilibrium and countless other signs of serious heatstroke once again took form. However, this was several times worse as it was all taking place from within the body rather than burning you from the outside. Being cooked was certainly not something you were keen on willingly participating, so having it from within made it truly excruciating. In retrospect, this was truly a terrible idea.

>>4175650

Nevertheless, you force yourself to grin and bear it and continue drawing sunlight into your body and undergoing photosynthesis. No matter how unbearably painful it was, you were committed to replenishing your stamina through the sun. To which your body begins to fall back down to your knees before resisting letting gravity take over and causing you to tumble down. Forcing yourself up took an unfathomed amount of will power but with how much your body stressing over, you find yourself practically paralyzed from top to bottom. Now stuck standing like a statue you were in for quite a tortuous experience. Either you were going to succeed and fully adapt to the sun or your body was going to completely shut down and give up entirely. It was hard to say where that pendulum was going to swing as it was rapidly fluctuating between the two.

It didn’t help that your tattered and ragged clothing didn’t provide much protection from the sun. At best they barely covered your appearance as the Sarashi wrappings and fundoshi undergarments were the only thing fully intact. The hakamashita kimono and obi sash was the only thing that was still holding together. Though now it appeared more of a sleeveless qípáo dress with your legs fully exposed in your savage glory. Of course, you were far too distracted by the blinding pain to notice how indecent your current attire appears. Otherwise, you might consider letting the sun put you out of your misery for how much shame you were bringing to your ancestors for such unspeakable acts.

Once again proactive serious cases of stubbornness throughout your endeavor you endure the pain and continue to push yourselves to acclimate in taking direct sunlight and accumulate your resistance towards it alongside gathering stamina. One has to wonder if you were secretly a masochist considering your current track records. Luckily your long contest of suffering begins turning the pain your enduring into power. Bit by bit you feel your body speeding up its developments upon being stressed pressed into a corner. Brute forcing your way out of your predicament causes yet another evolution to trigger from within. For some unknown reason or another, your body started striving and prospering within being fed the sun’s harmful race.

The sunlight you cultivate was indeed started to empower you. Surges of white pulsating bio-energy began to discharge around your body in bio-electrical currents. The retracted horns currently reduced as stumps start to emit sparks of electricity before shooting up back to full size. Slit pupils emitting a sharp, intense glow with traces of static glittering in the eyes was a clear indication of your body being supercharged by the sun’s rays. The rising body temperature finally stabilizes and returns to being around forty degrees. As for your heart rate, it clocks currently at over two hundred beats per minute, flesh vibrating at close to if not exactly that of ultra-high frequencies.

>>4175652

Painful as this was your body was indeed managing to slowly but steadily build-up resistance and safely convert the sunlight into energy. Flickers of white flames envelop from the skin but unlike previous burns, this one didn’t hurt you at all. It was burning far hotter than the vermillion flames that Aniki often displays when using his Flame of Breath Style. And even rivaling Jingo’s blacken flames that reeked of alcohol. You weren’t sure what this currently means but somehow you feel San'andomūn has received a serious boost in power as your body manages to successfully achieved photosynthesis with direct sunlight. Unfortunately, your regenerative powers were slowed to a crawl and your body was still paralyzed as you continued siphoning Sunlight. Seem like the pendulum has stopped down the middle.

>How do you proceed

>Call it quits and go back to the cave to recover before your luck runs out
>Focus on only meditating and using breathing techniques to help to adjust to the sun’s energy
>Use this chance to try and mix your San'andomūn with the Sun’s rays more consistently
>Other [write-in]

>>4175672
>>Focus on only meditating and using breathing techniques to help to adjust to the sun’s energy

>>4175672
>>Focus on only meditating and using breathing techniques to help to adjust to the sun’s energy

>>4175672
>Focus on only meditating and using breathing techniques to help to adjust to the sun’s energy

>>4175714
>>4175726
>>4175741

One roll this time. This is a new territory for you so you gotta break it until you make it. Or was it the other way around, either or.

Rolled 15 (1d20)

>>4175755

Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>4175755

Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>4175755

Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>4175755

>>4175774
Yeah, spend SP to negate this shit.

Nat 1 might just straight up kill us here.

Well, unless somebody rolls a 20 on next two rolls, I guess.

>>4175779
Our SP refreshes after rest, so spend it to get the best result here and then aim to rest. This day lasted long enough.

This is a good roll to auto-crit on, anyway.

Rolled 16 (1d20)

>>4175755

Rolled 4 (1d20)

Rolled 5 (1d20)

>>4175755

>>4175755
>>4175779

Since I don't see any objections I'll go through with this development. Your current tally is


SP: 0/6
ESP: 2/2
SR: 1 Reroll, 1 Nat 1

But on that note, since things been slowing down due to side-plot and character development I'm wondering if I should continue as I've been doing or timeskip to the final day/most important moment. So I can use some feedback.

>>4180287
Might need a reunion with the group before a time skip, imo.

>>4180308
This

>>4171223

By all accounts being able to siphon and retain sunlight without immediately undergoing spontaneous combustion was a total victory. So with that in mind, one would quit while they were currently ahead. Unfortunately for your other half, you weren’t one to stop when you just that. No, for you this was the best chance to get a certain glaring weakness under wraps while you have the time. Again one would think you’d have some sort of inner masochist just waiting to burst out of the seams at this opportunity. With a forceful push, you began moving your body, one foot at a time. The slightest twitch was enough to send a pulsating jolt down your body, shocking your nerves and pain receptors in the process.

Winching from the pain you toughen it out as you force yourself to make it to the large, smooth rock in the distance. Moving around in such conditions while siphoning energy albeit at a slower rate only continue putting your body through the wringer in adapting. The term no pain no gain comes to mind throughout this agonizing process. Luckily it didn’t take you longer to reach your destination. Slowly crawling onto the rock you set yourself into a meditational position. Moving around like this already stapped a large portion of your remaining strength in addition to bringing great pain. How ironic that its that very same pain that was keeping you conscious. Although the effects were diming the greater your pain tolerance develops.

Taking a deep breath you start to focus your mind and try to meditate accordingly. Clearing yourself of any impure breaths and strengthening the lung helped build the way to performing Total Concertation. An act that was easier said than done given the constant pain you were enduring. Training under both your grandmother and your cultivator provided you the means to whether through and remain concertation. A vital key for any demon slayer worth their salt to achieve given the unpredictable circumstances of battle. But even with managing Total Concertation under your side, you still fell short in taming the wild circulation of solar energy pulsating inside of you. Or at least it only feels like that given that you have yet to truly master Total Concertation according to your teacher.

>>4180852

Things like momentarily enhancing one’s performance be it focused singular or evenly distributed throughout, stabilizing & energizing one’s spirit, influencing one’s body temperature, clogging if not completely sealing one’s wounds, altering & halting one’s blood flow and one’s heart rate, and even greatly raising one’s physical and mental capabilities were all things you know. But once again, it was different knowing something and doing it, much less master it. With your training spread out focusing on so many things, it’s no wonder why you were having trouble. Yet you didn’t fuss and only continue bolstering your skills through trial. Focusing your mental power specifically helped clear your mind and provide greater insight. Then it hit you, there was one form of breathing you know that could help in your predicament.

Reverse, Liquid, Daoist/Taoist, Box, Rhythm, Lamaze, Kumbhaka, Kapalabhat, Qigong, Ujjayi, Uddiyana bandha, Ibuki, Nogare, Eupnea, Hyperpnea, Diaphragmatic, Thoracic, Clavicular, Paradoxical, and Costal breathing. All these and more breathing patterns nurtured and developed your family signature breathing method to its zenith form, with one breathing technique serving as the core foundation, the nine purifying breaths. Using all the cultivated knowledge from your ancestors brought forth the components necessary to create the multi-purpose Kyūkyūden Jōkohō. The nine techniques of Kyūkyūden Jōkohō were Jigokudō, Gakidō, Chikushōdō, Shuradō, Jindō, Tendō, Gedō, Naidō and Sendō.

Each focusing on a different breathing pattern to affect the body in different ways. The first technique Jigokudō was the purification and immune system strengthening method you preformed earlier when dealing with the corruptive blood. The magical curative properties it carries generally come forth through intense burning sensation as if the body was being boiled alive through short and strong forceful exhalations and inhalation at automatic rhythm. In terms of breathing techniques, this was the most medical focused given its strong influence to one’s natural healing abilities. But that was not the breathing technique that you aimed to utilize in combating the damaging sunlight in your body.

What you were looking for was the breath technique that handles circulation and distribution, the second breath Gakidō. Closing your eyes you start applying the technique onto your Total Concertation Breathing. Unlike in the dream world doing Kyūkyūden Jōkohō on its own ate up too much stamina. But even without that, you feel the sunlight would disrupt your concertation too hard for it. Despite this, your body pushes to pass the stress of using two breathing simultaneously to embark on getting a firm hold on the rampant energy. As the same as controlling one’s blood flow, so too did you find yourself channeling the flowing energy of the sun’s radiation throughout your body.

File: 78673434_p0.png (6.32 MB, 2894x4093)

6.32 MB PNG

>>4180855

Practically another case of adversity bringing forth opportunity, you start showing great signs of improvement. Being under such conditions force your body into acclimating to alleviate the pain and mend the body of its injuries sustained in this trial. As a result, the surging discharge begins to temper itself, reaching a calming state upon stabilizing. No longer was it a raging lightning storm waiting to strike anything that comes nears, but a flowing stream of luminance. Aura still visible to the naked eye now maintains a pure bluish-white shade, dimming itself from the once blinding light. Even in its tamed state, you get the impression that one false move would be enough to cause this ascended state to out of whack.

Compared to your blood demon arts, it was Kyūkyūden Jōkohō that got the most out of utilizing sunlight in conjunction. Making it apparent by the whitish-blue flames, most likely would be true silvery-white if done by itself. Putting that aside you felt your body becoming stronger undergoing the training. The heavyweights on your body lessoning the more you adjusted and adapt to the sunlight. Soon the pain was all but gone as you only feel discomfort and cramps. Stamina was returning to you, at a somewhat slow manner. Bit by bit your body accumulates the energy, slowly turning it into nourishing fuel and making it apart of you. Becoming ever closer to your own as you continue meditation. But even with this, you weren’t satisfied just yet so you continue your training.

It took you the entirety of the day to get down using sunlight without major consequences but it was clear that using it alongside demonic powers was currently out your skill level. Before you had the time to move from your spot, you were greeted by a strong yet familiar presence. Opening your eyes you stare up to look at Ozaki, currently keeping a reasonable gap between you and her. There were traces of the others close by but not anywhere near the closeness that Ozaki has. Looking at you closely, the demure woman goes to touch your horns. A single tap was enough to send a strong vibration down your body as your skin shivers to her touch. You weren’t sure how but she was reading your proprioception through the currents and vibrations.

“Found you…” Ozaki softly speaks, coming close to a whisper as you read her lips to get the message. “...Follow me, Aoi and the rest want to talk to you…And you promise to explain everything when you get there...” She stares deeply at you, breaking out of her timid act to give you a stern, unyielding gaze.

>How do you proceed?

>Go with Ozak without a fuss and agree to tell the truth to Aoi and the others
>Argue with Ozaki over your reasons for keeping a secret and why you left
>Refrain from answering and instead try to get to know Ozaki
>Bargan with Ozaki to serve as your messager instead
>Other [write-in]

>>4180858
>>Go with Ozak without a fuss and agree to tell the truth to Aoi and the others

Well, it's been a while coming.

>>4180858
>Go with Ozak without a fuss and agree to tell the truth to Aoi and the others
But return her glare. It's a challenge and backing down is unacceptable.

>>4180858
>>Go with Ozak without a fuss and agree to tell the truth to Aoi and the others

Do not see the challenge in there. It is just generic serious business glare.

>>4180858
>>Go with Ozak without a fuss and agree to tell the truth to Aoi and the others

>>4180873
>>4180881
>>4180906
>>4181087

Deep down you knew this was coming, anyone who saw what you did during and after the fight with Kaigaku would rightfully want some answers. It didn’t help that you also promised Aoi and the others that you would tell them everything once it was over. Really you’re more surprised that they didn’t come for you sooner. Maybe even if it was for the best that they didn’t come looking for you at all. Although you were still human, how much you are was a debatable slippery slope as evident by your transformation. Currently, you’d estimate you were around sixty-percent demonized with your two, large horns still sticking out as proof. Though, the sunlight more or less purged you of the corrupting influence.

Stopping yourself from absorbing any more sunlight, you dispel yourself out of your meditative state and pick yourself up slowly. “Alright, I’ll go with you.”

“...Not making any form of resistance?” Ozaki asks, staring with mild confusion

“The guilty ones are the ones who make excuses or try to run away. I know what I did wasn’t the smartest idea but given the situation it couldn’t be helped. I made this difficult situation and I’m going to see it through to the end.”

“...Very well, I won’t ask further.”

And with that, you decide to follow the socially inept samurai out of your safe haven. Having her lead the way you merely kept to keeping a fair distance with your blade still resting on your obi sash. Walking around only now makes you realize just how much your transformation affected you. If it wasn’t apparent already you were a scantily clad brute, fully exposing your heavily muscular feminine physique with an hourglass figure and pronounced features in the open. If there was a hole around you’d jump right in to hide over the shame. Going as far as to wrap your arms in a fold to cover your chest, feeling the sarashi bands finally giving out. But there was no time for shame as you receive an unexpected phone call from your mind.

“Hey dumb-dumb, tell me right now what was going through your head when you decided to oh I don’t know ….directly absorb nourishment to the sun!” The dark-skinned demon yelled, immediately setting up a telepathic call from within. Thankfully you could answer without sounding like you’re talking to yourself in the process.

“...Well I’d just thought if I could adapt to the sun’s rays then I can recover even during day time. And be more capable of using our power during this time. Besides, we’re not burning up in the sun despite being like this. I’d say that’s a win-win scenario.” You awkwardly chuckle, scratching your side in embarrassment.

Choosing to stare at you coldly for a bit, Shakuren finally breaks out of her disappointing pause.“ You really don’t have any sense of self-preservation huh.”

>>4182684

“I’m sorry. If it makes you feel better, I was the one who took the full brunt of the sun rather than you.”You say, trying to appeal to your other half.

“No it doesn’t but I’m not going to harp on you further on this for now. From the looks of it, you already got karma coming back to bite you on the patootie. So I’ll just finish up what I wanted to say before our interruption. Do you remember Muzan’s curse? The very thing that kept a demon from speaking his name?” Shakuren asks.

“Uh...no. To be honest I’d never thought I was under a curse at all.”You sweatdrop, letting out another awkward laugh at your own ignorance.

“...I don’t know how but you managed to turn my constant frustration of losing to you into sheer embarrassment. It’s infuriating. “ Shakuren sighs, pinching her temples and rubbing it out of necessity.

“Whatever. Listen to my explanation about curses and conditions. All demons are connected to the progenitor, Muzan Kibutsuji, thorough his blood. But that same blood contains an array of curses. With it, he is capable of fully manipulate and control demons in addition to using terrifying fear to force them into obedience. Say cannibalizing demons, for instance, that’s just one of the many things Muzan is capable of doing. All demonic abilities and traits are just imitations of Muzan’s power as the original demon. Take curses, for another example, demons are capable of inflicting curses on to others. Especially at the time of their death where the potential is at its apex.” Shakuren explains.

“That’s certainly sound like a problem. As for Muzan, I knew that he was a scumbag but to do something like this to ensure people follow him...it’s unforgivable.” You remark, gritting your teeth in anger as your demonic traits begin to show. Thankfully Ozaki didn’t turn back to notice but it wasn’t like she wasn’t aware of the sudden shift in motion.

“Calm down and listen, it won’t do us any good if you lose yourself because of your empathy. Anyway, although we proved that even Muzan’s curses and control over his progeny are not omnipotent as evident by us breaking through it with sheer willpower, it’s still worth noting that curses shouldn’t be underestimated. Right now I can only assume he doesn’t even know that we survived since we’re undetectable from breaking the curse. Anyway, like blood demon arts they’re directly tied to how many humans one eats as well as the strength of their conviction, in this case, the darker emotions, especially that of malice.” Shakuren lectures before going back to explaining about curses. Hearing her words of wisdom was enough for you to practice tranquil fury as your demonic traits temper and relax in response.

>>4182708

“The more malice you have, the stronger the curse becomes. Even demonic abilities like blood demon arts can be greatly influenced by such strong grudges or desires. Allowing them to last even through Post-Mortem, right down to the very last second as it lingers. Perhaps powering them up as it becomes fiercer and more erratically chaotic. Entirely dependant on the will, and how powerful that intent is when fulled by strong emotions to trigger this phenomenon. “

“Since I don’t eat humans, I accumulate my power through other means and cultivate it accordingly. Gradually stockpiling it to store for when necessary, to which you see based on your current set of demonic influenced abilities and skills. Or at worst be driven into performing autophagy when the situation greatly warrants it, as we saw with your replenished life force. Either way, I can’t directly use a curse, only retool that potential aspect into one based on restriction and covenant.” Shakuren admits, finding it hard to even consider herself a demon by regular standards as she was given many times the opportunity to eat humans but chose not to.

“Like some sort of condition” You chimed in, playing close attention to Shakuren’s explanation.

“More of a pact or vow but otherwise yes. It’s one of the things I’ve been working on in my list of priorities. Being able to rewrite and break/exorcise curses is highly valuable in addition to improving this body general resistance. The last thing either of us would desire is being enslaved by anyone like the demons serving Muzan. It’s not at the level of strength I’d like for it to be, much like the many other abilities in my (our) arsenal, but for now, it works well enough on the run of the mill demons. ”As Shakuren reflects upon this, she briefly looks back to the corner seeing another being slowly constructing themselves into being as this takes place. “Anyway, given your action with our greatest weakness, I think it’s best if I start laying down our pact before you send us to our doom.”
“Wait, pact? I thought we reached an understanding and became best friends forever. Why the sudden need for a contract?” You ask, blinking in confusion as Shakuren scows at being called BFF.

>>4182721

“Because you said you want more demonic power. Since you refuse to take long periods of sleeping to accumulate more power and acclimate to it naturally, this is the only other alternative I personally think that would fit your morals and creed. Like I could tell you to eat human like every other demon, at least corpses of the recently deceased, but you wouldn’t beckon to do such an act. Thus, putting you a series of conditions and pledge through this pact, it’ll serve as inhibitors to your demonic energy and strengthen it like how you strengthen the muscles. “ Shakuren says, snapping her fingers as an assortment of different contract conditions starts to fill your mind.

“Plus it’ll show how much I can trust you by vowing to respect your restriction and limitations, allowing greater strengthening effects to your general parameters for your abilities and lessen activation requirement. And if I trust you enough, I can open flexible windows for exceptions or even loopholes to the pact’s rules. But it’ll be a case on case basics.”

“...Hmm, you sure are throwing a lot of these conditions. I feel more inclined to call you my mom at this rate instead of BFF.” You say, going through all of them and committing it to memory.

Brushing off your comment about labeling her as a mom, Shakuren continues to commit herself to be the voice of reason. In her mind, it was pretty much ironic that the literal embodiment of your demonic side was being the more reasonable one. “Don’t forget you’re still half-human. As much as these restrictions are to safeguard me from potential tomfoolery, they’re also to keep you from becoming your own worst enemy. Without my influence, all that’s remains is the primal urges and uninhibited demonic impulses that come with the power territory. And between you and me, having myself in control is far less dangerous than being a mindless albeit terrifying apex predator. These only so much you can handle without being broken down and eroded in the process. “

“Anyway, those are my terms. Follow them and I’ll be more than willing to give my full cooperation and the demonic power you seek. “Shakuren adamantly states, refusing to budge especially after having to deal with going into autophagy to greatly speed up the necessary means for your sun experiment to succeed in such a manner.

Reviewing it one more time and putting aside your feelings over eating demons, you start to deeply reflect on your actions. Reminding you just how selfish you were being to Shakuren prior. Closing your eyes you strengthen your will and commit to making this right. “Okay, I agree to all of the conditions of the pact and swear to fulfill them as my obligation.”

“...eh? Come again.” Shakuren pause, blinking with a twitching smile.

“I said I agree to the terms and willing to follow them without question.”

File: tenor (4).gif (1.39 MB, 498x420)

1.39 MB GIF

>>4182732

“Ah, see that’s what I thought you said.” Shakuren nods, taking a moment to understand what you say before respectively flipping out like a rampaging bull. “....HUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUH?!?! ARE YOU THAT MUCH OF A NAIVE NITWIT TO ACCEPT ALL OF MY CONDITIONS JUST LIKE THAT?!?!?! NO ARGUING OVER THE POINTS, NO CONSTITUTION OF PROOF, NO BARGING AGINST THE TERMS OR ESTABLISHMENT OF A BIGGER TRADE-OFF?!” Shakuren screams.

“I-I don’t get it. Isn’t this exactly what one should do to establish a fair and strong partnership? I mean you are my BMFF, Best Motherly Friend Forever. So why shouldn’t I try to commit to your wishes just like you do for me? You don’t eat people, you don’t really get in my way, you patiently deal with my choices without putting your foot down. In my opinion, this is the least I can do for all the help and support you been giving me.” You smile, still sweating from the confusion.

“Y-You….Y-You.” Shakuren studders, her face turning red as her heart begins to throb from the conventional showcase of acceptance and affection. “Q-QUIT SCREWING WITH ME YOU IDIOT. SAYING SOMETHING LIKE THAT WON’T MAKE ME HAPP!!.”

Turning to her side and kneeling, Shakuren rubs her puffy cheeks while making an angry pout. “Hmph! Don’t get the wrong idea! I’m not exactly over you stopping me from being the dominant conscious controlling this body. Just that it so happens that I’m willing to be a tiny bit more cooperative without a fuzz since you’re serious about accepting these conditions. And I’d don’t really care about things outside of self-preservation and fulfilling our goals. So between all that, I suppose I can reward your gallantry and earnest sincerity by letting you remain the captain of this ship. But If you’re going to pull a dumb stunt like trying to absorb the sunlight, you better give me a warning next time. “

“...Right, I’ll be sure to do that. Anyway thanks.”

“S-Stop that! It’s weird hearing you be so thankful. Besides, eyes on the road, you’re about to face off with those demon slayers.”

Right on cue, you find yourself sensing the presence of those you once shared arms with. In your discussion with your other half, your body moved to keep following Ozaki. Time flew by rather quickly as you return to the base of operation. Unlike before, there were only the people you met and fought with/against. The other demon slayers were on standby elsewhere or still recovering from the night’s endeavors. As for the people you called your brethren, each one of them was sitting on a council like rock awaiting for your arrival. Judging by the looks on their faces, it wasn’t going to be a smooth confrontation that’s for sure.

>To be continued

>>4182759

Going to do the confrontation and finally get the exam done at the next thread. Thanks for sticking with me through this wild ride.

That said, you can discuss your plans for the remaining days as well as how you're going to handle your friends in this thread while you're still able to.

>>4182763
Well for an actual defensive plan, get the people who can't fight to help out set up the camp area, defenses, and act as lookouts.

For our friends, we may as well come clean with them. Whether or not they accept us is up to them, and if they feel more comfortable without us...we'll probably have to camp away from them.

>>4182759
Bottom line, it is worth pointing out that we were allowed to live by Flame Pillar and... Whatever Jingo's rank in the hierarchy was.

>>4183864

Cultivator and Former Flame Pillar.

>>4182759
>>4183864
These. Not much else we can do. Teasing Shakuren is alone has made this worth it.