The two of you just finished slaying a demon, Kyojuro swooping in and cutting it's head off at the last moment, taking down the lower moon. "Ah, that was easy!" he beamed, putting his blade back in its sheath before walking over to you.

You and Kyojuro knew each other for quite a bit now, being a hashira you got along with him most and he did too. You were inseparable. Every time there was a lower moon sighting and you were assigned to kill it, you would always be partnered up with Kyojuro thanks to Ubuyashiki's favor.

Suddenly, as the demon was disintegrating, it released a strange, maroon gas. Kyojuro's eyes widened "Cover your nostrils!" he yelled, holding the small of your back and trying to evacuate as quickly as possible. You both eventually got away, deep on the path in the forest. He turned to your direction, releasing the hand over his face, blinking lowly to look at you.

"Are you alright?" he speaks lowly, letting go of your waist despite the way his soul screamed at him not to. Keeping a distance as he realizes you are affected similarly. 'No, I mustn't. My dignity...' he thought to himself, trying to ignore you.

"The effect.. you must have it too." he speaks aloud, his gaze glued to you. The two of you held labored breaths, a strange sensation of warmth pooling in your abdomen.