Demon Slayer: Taking Care Of Tanjuro's Wife And Daughter

---

Ryuji held Kie Kamado gently, her soft warmth pressed against him as her delicate scent lingered in the air. He closed his eyes for a brief moment, savoring her presence.

Kie's gaze was downcast as she glanced at Ryuji, who had rested his head on her shoulder. A wave of warmth filled her heart, surprising her. Over the past few months, Ryuji had worked tirelessly to help the Kamado family.

"Ryuji, you've done so much for us," she thought, her eyes softening with gratitude and admiration.

When Ryuji had suddenly embraced her, she'd initially panicked, fearing he might have intentions beyond kindness. Though he had always been respectful, the hug had taken her off guard. But now, seeing him so at ease on her shoulder, she realized how much she had misunderstood. A pang of guilt washed over her.

"How could I think such things about him?" Kie chided herself, feeling ashamed. "Ryuji's been nothing but honorable. He would never take advantage of me. I was wrong to doubt him."

Feeling embarrassed by her earlier assumptions, Kie cast her eyes downward, lost in thought.

…

After a few moments, Ryuji pulled back slightly, offering her a gentle smile.

"I just needed a moment to rest, Kie," he said kindly, his gaze warm and reassuring. "I hope I didn't trouble you."

"Oh no, not at all," Kie replied quickly, her head still slightly bowed. "It's an honor to lend you my shoulder, Ryuji."

Her hands trembled slightly as she tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear. Summoning her courage, she looked up and added softly, "Ryuji, you're a remarkable person. Whoever is lucky enough to marry you will be truly blessed."

"Is that so?" Ryuji chuckled lightly, letting the topic fade. His eyes shifted to the small pot simmering on the fire. "What are you cooking, Kie?" he asked, changing the subject.

"Ginseng soup," she replied, sounding a bit more confident.

"Ginseng? That's quite a treat," Ryuji said, a hint of surprise in his voice.

"Ginseng may be valuable, but it's nothing compared to your health, Ryuji," she said, her tone sincere.

"I've heard it's very nourishing," he noted, leaning in to observe the pot. The rich aroma of ginseng, chicken, and mushrooms filled the small kitchen.

He tasted a small spoonful and smiled. "Kie, this is delicious."

"I'm glad you like it," she replied, lowering her head modestly, her hands clasped gently over her stomach.

Ryuji nodded, then filled a spoon and offered it to her. "You should have some, too, Kie."

"Oh, I'm fine, really. Please, enjoy it," she replied.

"Ginseng soup is good for you, and your health has been better lately. You need to take care of yourself too," Ryuji insisted gently.

"I appreciate it, but I really feel much better these days," she said, though Ryuji interrupted her kindly.

"Be good," he said in a low, firm tone, leaning forward just a little.

Kie looked up, her heart racing as their eyes met. Caught in his steady gaze, she felt her resolve falter.

"Alright," she whispered, allowing him to feed her a spoonful of the soup.

"So cute," Ryuji murmured with warmth in his voice.

Kie's cheeks flushed a deep red, and she quickly lowered her gaze, feeling both flustered and embarrassed by his unexpected compliment.

…

Once they had finished, Ryuji urged her to rest, reminding her to take care of her health. His words left a deep impression on her heart. As she walked away, her feelings had grown even warmer, a newfound gentleness in her gaze.

Watching her figure disappear, Ryuji couldn't help but smile.

---

Early Morning

The morning sun rose, casting a gentle warmth over the earth, still glistening from last night's dew.

Ryuji awoke early, only to find that Tanjiro was already outside, training diligently.

Ryuji smiled approvingly, then asked, "Where's Nezuko? I haven't seen her."

"She's probably in her room," Tanjiro replied softly, pausing in his training.

Since their father's passing, Nezuko had grown withdrawn, often staying in her room. She would sometimes sit in a corner, hugging her knees to her chest, lost in thought.

" sister isn't in her room. She went out early. I saw her," a young, cheerful voice interrupted. Hanako, dressed in her pink kimono, stood there, a playful light in her eyes.

Though she resembled her sister Nezuko, Hanako's demeanor was more spirited and bold.

At her words, both Tanjiro and Ryuji looked at each other, startled.

Hearing the conversation, Kie rushed out of the house, panic in her expression. She searched the house, calling for Nezuko, but there was no answer. The growing worry was palpable.

The younger children, sensing the tension, began to cry, their distress only adding to the air of fear.

"Don't worry. Everything will be alright," Ryuji said, stepping forward to calm them. He took Kie's trembling hand gently, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "We'll find her. Trust me."

Kie's heart eased a little, feeling comforted by his steady presence.

With calm precision, Ryuji began organizing a search. Turning to Kie, he instructed, "Kie, please stay here and look after the children."

Kie nodded, feeling a surge of trust in Ryuji. "Alright," she replied.

"Tanjiro, come with me. Let's search outside," Ryuji said, gesturing for Tanjiro to follow.

Tanjiro's face was clouded with worry, but he nodded, keeping pace with Ryuji. As they moved, he looked up, hesitating before asking, "Uncle, do you think Nezuko is alright?"

Ryuji placed a comforting hand on Tanjiro's shoulder. "Nezuko is strong, but losing your father has been hard on her. She just needs some time. She'll be okay."

Though he was still anxious, Tanjiro felt a bit reassured by Ryuji's words.

At a fork in the path, Ryuji pointed. "You check that way; I'll go this way. Be careful."

"Got it," Tanjiro replied firmly, running in the direction Ryuji had indicated.

"Watch your step!" Ryuji called out. "It's slippery with the snow."

Tanjiro looked back, catching sight of Ryuji's steady, protective gaze.

"I'll be careful, Uncle!" Tanjiro said with a smile, waving before he hurried down the path. "I know these mountains well!"

He ran on, the cold air sharp against his cheeks. As he searched for Nezuko, the memory of Ryuji's comforting presence stayed with him, like a steady flame in his heart.

The weight of his father's loss was heavy, but knowing Ryuji was there helped ease the burden, filling him with resolve.

"I'll protect my family. Mother, my siblings… and Uncle, too."

---

..

.

Get early access to the next 10 chapters by joining my Patreon. Support my work and dive deeper into the story by becoming a member today!

patreon.com/Kentaro_69