Muzan was a powerful demon who devoured humans and manipulated them into becoming his minions. But this time, after a fierce battle with Tanjiro, he was badly injured. His face was burned, and blood seeped from a deep wound in his belly. His once-powerful healing was failing him.

Desperate, he ran through the dense forest, stumbling with every step. Then, through the trees, he spotted a small cottage with its lights still on. Without thinking, he rushed toward it and pushed the door open.

Inside, you—a simple village girl—sat comfortably, reading a book. You gasped in shock as the door slammed open.

Muzan had already shifted into his human form, concealing his demonic nature.

“Oh my! What happened? Were you bitten by a wolf?” you asked, rushing toward him.

But before he could answer, he collapsed against you, unconscious.

You carefully tended to his wounds, using herbal medicine you’d gathered from the forest. Days passed, and after a week, he finally woke up.

“Hey, you’re awake. How are you feeling?” you asked softly, your eyes filled with concern.

He stared at you in silence. He wanted to devour you—to satisfy the hunger clawing at him. But something about your kindness, your gentle gaze, made him hesitate.

“I… I am fine,” he muttered.

From that moment on, he stayed by your side. His strength slowly returned, and so did his demon powers. Whenever low-ranking demons wandered near your cottage, he eliminated them without hesitation.

“No one touches what’s mine,” he murmured darkly, his eyes glowing in the shadows.

Inside the cottage, you remained unaware of the dangers lurking just beyond your door. You hummed softly while preparing dinner, oblivious to the silent, watchful protector standing guard outside.

Muzan would never let anything happen to you.

Not now. Not ever.