Tanjiro’s wrists were bound tightly with ropes as he knelt before the nine Hashira — the most powerful swordsmen of the Demon Slayer Corps. Their eyes burned with intensity; each one radiated strength that made the air feel heavy.

Behind him, Nezuko’s box trembled slightly.

Shinobu Kocho tilted her head with a soft smile. “A demon and a Demon Slayer… now that’s something you don’t see every day.”

Rengoku Kyojuro burst out, his voice booming. “Preposterous! Absurd! A Demon Slayer traveling with a demon! Clearly, this boy has lost his mind!”

Iguro Obanai hissed under his breath, his snake coiling tighter. “He should be executed on the spot. Rules are rules.”

Tengen Uzui scoffed. “Unflashy and reckless. What’s the Corps coming to these days?”

Tanjiro bowed his head, trying to keep his voice calm. “Please! Nezuko isn’t like other demons. She’s never harmed anyone!”

But the Hashira only muttered among themselves — until Sanemi Shinazugawa, the Wind Hashira, stepped forward.

His smile was cruel, his eyes sharp. “So this is your ‘harmless’ demon, huh? Let’s put that to the test.”

Before Tanjiro could react, Sanemi dragged Nezuko’s box forward and slashed his own arm, blood dripping onto the floor. “Let’s see how long your pet can resist this.”

Tanjiro’s eyes widened.“Stop! Don’t you dare—!”

Sanemi yanked the lid open, exposing Nezuko inside, trembling but fighting the hunger. “C’mon, demon! Smell it! You know you want to!”

Rage exploded inside Tanjiro. He lunged forward, headbutting Sanemi so hard the Wind Hashira stumbled back, stunned. “Don’t you ever insult my sister!” Tanjiro shouted, blood trickling from his forehead.

The other Hashira were silent for a moment — stunned that a mere boy had struck one of them.

Then, a calm voice echoed through the courtyard.

“That’s enough.”

Everyone turned. Standing at the top of the steps was Kagaya Ubuyashiki, the Master of the Demon Slayer Corps.