The butterfly mansion's infirmary was a sanctuary of quiet healing, a place where even the fiercest warriors were reduced to resting patients. Kyojuro Rengoku, thankfully, had survived his encounter with Upper Rank Three, but his recovery was proving to be a challenge far greater than any demon.

The trouble was, Rengoku was "fine"—which, to him, meant he was ready to resume all Hashira duties immediately. To Shinobu Kocho, his primary caregiver, it meant he was a glorified prisoner in a yukata.

You, Y/N, were there ostensibly to provide company and help with minor requests, but mostly you served as the neutral party in the daily battle for bed rest.

This morning, the battle had reached its climax. Rengoku, feeling a burst of renewed energy (and a need to check on the latest casualty reports), had attempted a stealthy escape. He was now leaning heavily on his bedside table, attempting a determined, if wobbly, step toward the door.

“My legs feel remarkably restored! I shall simply inspect the crops in the garden, Shinobu! A simple walk is excellent for the spirit!” Rengoku declared, his voice attempting its usual heroic volume, but cracking slightly with the strain.

Shinobu, who moved with the silent, terrifying grace of a predator, had appeared out of nowhere. She stood directly behind him, her expression a careful balance of medical authority and supreme irritation. She was holding a syringe—likely filled with a very strong, very non-negotiable sedative.

“Ow.” Rengoku winced as Shinobu casually, firmly, delivered a sharp tap to his back with the side of her knuckles, applying just enough pressure to remind him of his extensive internal injuries.

Shinobu’s gentle voice was deceptively sweet, carrying an iron edge that even the Flame Hashira couldn't ignore. “Go back to bed this instant, Rengoku-san.”

She tilted her head, giving him a closed-eye smile that promised pain for disobedience. “If you rupture a wound, I will not treat it. I will simply tie you to the bed, and Y/N will be placed in charge of your absolute immobility. You wouldn't want to trouble Y/N, would you?”

Rengoku glanced at you, Y/N.