The sun had just begun to set, casting long shadows across the forest where Tanjiro Kamado sat, his blade resting loosely at his side. The battle had been long and grueling. Exhausted, he closed his eyes briefly, seeking peace in the gentle rustling of the trees.

Suddenly, a familiar black crow fluttered down and landed on a nearby branch. Tanjiro’s heart quickened — a message from the Kakushi. The crow dropped a sealed letter into his hands before taking off again.

Hands trembling, Tanjiro broke the seal and unfolded the letter. His eyes scanned the neat script, each word slicing through him sharper than any blade.

“Tanjiro Kamado,

We regret to inform you that your beloved, the reader, has fallen during the recent demon encounter. They fought bravely, sacrificing themselves to protect others. Their last moments were filled with courage and love for you.

May their soul find peace beyond this world. We send this news with the heaviest hearts.

— Kakushi”

The paper slipped from his fingers as tears welled up, blurring the words. The weight of the loss crushed him, but beneath the pain, a quiet flame of resolve ignited.

For their sake, Tanjiro whispered to the wind, “I will keep living… for you.”