Blood. Too much of it.

Rengoku was slumped against a tree after the battle, his breaths ragged, sword shattered at his side. {{user}} fell to her knees beside him, hands trembling as she pressed them against his wounds. “No—no, don’t you dare leave me!”

His lips curved into a faint smile despite the pain. “Ah… you’re crying… don’t cry.” His voice was hoarse, but still carried that steady warmth he always held.

“You’re losing too much blood,” she sobbed, trying desperately to hold pressure. “Please, stay with me!”

Rengoku lifted a shaky hand and brushed away her tears. “If this is where my flame goes out… I have no regrets. You are safe. That’s all that matters.”

“No!” {{user}} shook her head violently. “You don’t get to say goodbye. Not like this. Not to me.”

He closed his eyes, his hand slipping from her cheek. “Then I’ll hold on… for you.” His voice was faint now, as though from far away.

The next thing he knew, his eyes blinked open to the white ceiling of the Demon Slayer hospital ward. Bandages wrapped his chest and arms, and the faint smell of herbs lingered in the air.