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babbiweeb · 9 months

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first & last-kyojuro rengoku

(anime in gif:unknown)

tw:mentions of wedlock/prostitution

initial tags:pre-established relationship/reader background, kyojuro rengoku, female-reader, demon slayer:kimetsu no yaiba

genre:romance, fluff

story playlist:

meet me in amsterdam-rini

say yes to heaven-lana del rey

kingston-faye webster

this is how you fall in love-jeremy zucker ft. chelsea cutlerand

then, i found you-fcj

authors note:if you know me irl, no you don’t.

-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈

From strangers-

As the harsh winter season slowly comes to its end, spring begins to tease the residents of home. A small village that seems to be ever growing, sat at the end of a mountainside. Such a place shelters a young woman of beauty and intelligence. A gentle, divine ray of pure femininity had blessed the small residence some time ago-quickly integrating herself snug into the hearts of many.

While (admittedly) not completely up to date with the latest of medical advances of the Taisho Era, she poses as one of the local doctors and lends aid where she can. Despite the minimal knowledge, Y/N has truly made a name for herself. She is up to date with every book she manages to get her hands on. Her cozy home slowly fills with notes, writings, and constant reminders of her achievement here.

Her desire to help others shadow over her own selfish cravings. Her selfless attitude is what charms most-

Oh how she makes it so easy to feel comfortable within her radiance.

Demons. That is the fear among us-

The thought of an attack places fear within the hearts of many, including Y/N

Nightfall falls quickly as Y/N loses herself in the local market. The fresh selection of various goods capture her attention, forgetting her own vow.

“Always be home before dusk”

To prevent any sudden attacks that could place her in harm's way, Y/N made a promise to herself to always be home before the sun goes down. Always the mindful woman-

“There are people still out, perhaps one late night will be alright”.-She thought.

Slowly, her shopping finally comes to an end as she decides to make the short journey home. She says goodbye and goodnight to all the familiar faces that pass her, however, her eyes trail to someone completely out of the ordinary.

Across the street of the marketside, a man who dawns the look of fire stands tall and attentive. The air grows thin as the crisp nightly breeze weaves through the crowd. This feels almost serene, he looks almost serene-She thought. While clearly attentive and cautious, he seems to make note of those that pass. Arms folded as they cover his chest, his gaze follows the bright lights and the many faces of the people who occupy such a village.

His uniform gives him away immediately. I’ve heard of the heroic tales of such slayers who defend the weak from deplorable acts of violence. Though, I’ve never met such a person-I never actually believed in their existence. However, I am grateful.

As if fate decided it was bored, my watchful eyes that admired him from a distance, now meets with his.

An audible gasp rolls off my delicate mouth. The sudden motion of him turning directly to meet my gaze catches me by complete surprise. With a quick breath, I catch myself and smile towards the man. His eyes quickly close as he passes along a soft smile in return. My cheeks begin to fill with warmth, a warmth I have yet to experience. How curious?

As begin to realize how I’d like to stay here in this soft moment with him, I quickly shake my head, subconsciously melting away my initial realization. My small hand slowly lifts in the cool air, sending a subtle wave to the man.

Our first hello, and first goodbye.

“Finally home!”

Her journey home isn't at all tiresome, and even if it was, she just feels lucky enough to have such a private abode to call her own. Located near the edge of the village, she hears travelers pass by quite often. Sometimes, she runs off into dreamland, thinking of all the places they’ve seen.

“What is it like to venture elsewhere?” “ What kind of people would I be able to meet?”

Endless thoughts of more fills her mind more than she’d like to admit.

As the hours pass, night settles entirely. Y/N is laying in bed. Her routine finished.

Another thing she would never admit is how much she truly cares for her well being. Growing up, she had very little. She practically raised herself. Born out of wedlock in the Red District, her mother did what she could for a time to her own disdain. Eventually, her mother gave her up entirely.

No one wants to pay for a service with a baby in the corner.

Her memories soon get sucked back into her own vault as she hears commotion just outside her home. Startled, she shoots up from her bed-

“What?”

A hushed whisper falls from her. Curious, she slowly makes her way outside her bedroom and towards her living area. A shadow grows as it casts itself against the walls. The bushes rustle loudly as I begin to feel on edge. Quietly, I make my way to my front door-

“Just a small peak-”

My eye connects mere centimeters from my peep hole and soon, I see a man. He is hunched over, holding onto whatever branch he can find while he slowly walks past my front yard.

“Oh my-It’s him!”

Within an instant, I unlock my front door and make my way down. I seemed to have caught his attention as he turns to the sound of my door opening.

“My lady! I’m sorry to disturb you this late! I will be gone shortly!”-He speaks as his voice cracks.

As I make my way towards him cautiously, I can see him clearly. I notice his uniform is now dirty, as he holds his side. Blood stains cover him as the pain in his voice suggests he has been injured.

“You’ve been injured! Please, allow me to help!”-My voice pleads with the man as I attempt to grab a firm hold onto his arm.

“That is not necessary! I could not forgive myself for allowing a civilian to lend wasted aid over my own mistake! However, fear not, the local threat has been eliminated.”

Threat? We had a threat nearby? I had no idea! Yet, my worry can now subside once again as he reassures me. While ignoring his dubious assumption of wasted aid, I wrap my arm under his and lean my frame against him offering some support.

“Please, save such words. Allow me to help you. I am a Doctor.”

Hesitantly, he looks at me and sighs with relief. It seems as if he has accepted my offer as we began to walk back into my home. Once entered, I make time to lock my door just in case, and signal for him to get comfortable on my sofa

“I will be right back! I’m going to grab my first aid kit! Please sir, don't move too much!”-My voice echos a sense of urgency as I make my way to my kitchen and grab all that I may need to patch him.

As I return to his side, he leans back into my sofa seemingly exhausted. He must be truly tired, especially after a battle. I feel my heart begin to ache as I look at his figure. His eyes are closed and for a moment, I sense a wave of peace settling over us. Softly, I speak once again

“U-Uhm…sir? I see where you're bleeding the most. May I take hold of your arm?”

He simply nods, keeping his eyes closed. He lifts his arm out towards me all while ruffling his sleeve up. Just as I thought, a long scratch trails up his forearm. It isn't deep at all, which is a great sign, he won't need stitches!

“The good news is sir, this isn't a deep cut! This just needs a simple clean and a wrap! I will start now-”

As I prep my kit and all that I need, his body shifts forward. Gently, his other arm raises as his hand reaches out for mine. All at once, my heart begins to race as I feel my body flush with the same warmth I felt before. His inviting eyes find mine, and almost fondly, he whispers-

“My name is Kyojuro Rengoku. I am The Flame Hashira, and I thank you immensely, my lady!”

Our first introduction, and first glimpse into something more.

To Friends-

Spring blossoms beautifully as it illuminates the chance to start all over again. The small village had found its footing once more as the month of April sets the tone for many to feel refreshed. As if her days are made up like a routine, the treasured beauty begins to relish in what she has. Although, something is different. This spring, she has decided to open her heart to unknown adventures. Come what may, there is no denying her character has slightly changed. All thanks to a certain someone that has caught her attention effortlessly.

“Kyojuro! Please stop that! I need to focus!”-My lips slowly curve into a small frown.

Here we are, sitting alongside the mountain streams. He hasn't been able to stop fidgeting since we got here, so naturally, he bugs me. His laugh fills my ears as they perk up over such a joyful sound. I can't take him seriously-

“See?! Look! Now my papers are flying off!”-I giggle softly as I scoff at the prospect of having to get up and chase them down.

“Oh come on little flame! I’m bored!”-He whines as we both get up from our spot.

“Little flame." Huh?-I thought. The nickname came suddenly. One day these words slipped from his lips. He turned as red as a tomato, as if he had committed such a heinous act. To our surprise, I felt more than welcomed to the idea of being a “little flame”. It felt good to be noticed in such a way that I am deserving of a pet name. Though, I never truly understood why-

Soon, we’re both chasing down my notes that flutter through the quick breeze. Banter ensues as our laughter grows louder. Everything we do, always seems to end in sync. It’s *refreshing-

“Well you were the one that wanted to tag along! I told you what I intended on doing!”-I speak honestly as I grab a few papers that fell snug into the tall grass.

He pouts as he collects what he can, sticking his tongue out at me teasingly. A brief pause resets us before he continues.

“Yeah yeah! I know! I just don't know why you need to study so hard? Shinobu practically gave you the job! Plus, she already adores you!”-He whines as I roll my eyes slightly.

Sitting back down at our spot, I begin to reorganize my paperwork. Since our first meeting, Kyojuro has made it a point to repay me for that night. I’ve told him countless times that he truly didn't need to. Although, after that, he made it a routine to visit my village at least once a week. I still don't know how he did not get in trouble! Some days he would leave his duty early! This was months ago now! I never would have expected us to grow so close in such a short amount of time.

“I still want to impress her, you know!”-I giggle softly as I place my paperwork neatly in my tote bag.

“Oh! That’s right! The cherry blossom festival comes back to town tonight! Are you both still planning on coming?”-I can't help but put my excitement on full display. I never used to like going to such events, mainly because I never had anyone to go with. But, this new season is different.

“We all wouldn't miss it for the world!”-He says gently.

If I knew better, I would be able to pick up on the subtle shift of atmosphere between us. If I knew better, I would be able to see the glimmer in his eyes, the shine. If I knew better, perhaps we wouldn't have to dance around each other much longer.

The Hashira. A group made up of nine brave and dedicated souls. Those that know of their existence owe a great deal to such bravery. Naturally, Y/N being the loud mouth she is, she tells the village of their arrival tonight. During the weeks that passed, she had mentioned in passing to a few people that she will be inviting a few ‘special guests’. Of course, the villagers are not blind, they’ve seen *his* frequent visits since the winter. Whispers of young love fill the streets as most are simply thrilled by her happiness. Though, no one dares tease the pair, at least not yet.

The villagers move around quickly, preparing everything that was left to the very last minute (large families seem to do this often). Chatter begins to fill the air as dim street lights guide the path to the market side. Vendors have set up booths of games for the children and drinks for the adults. And, of course, the food-

“He’s such a foodie! He’ll have a blast!”-Y/N laughs to herself as she walks towards the lights. Her attire matches the events of this evening. While getting ready for the night, Y/N felt that this would be the perfect occasion to ditch her usual yukata. A pale pink silk kimono holds her frame perfectly, while her obi belt accentuates her femininity. Prints of blooming peonies compliment such a delicate beauty. Her hair clipped high with simple pins.

Everyone in the village takes note of her arrival. Even in a sea of people, it’s easy to spot such a kind soul. The whispers start once more-

“Wait till he sees her " "When do you think they’ll arrive?” “How long do you think they’ll remain oblivious?”

“Y/N!”-A soft voice calls out to me.

“Shinobu! Hi!”-My future mentor looks beautiful. The colors of her attire compliment her so well. I wave excitedly as we meet in the middle. Behind her, unfamiliar faces accompany her. I take note of each of their faces, smiling brightly as I begin to introduce myself.

“Y/N! You said we can invite who we want! So! Here we all are!”-As she giggles, she points to each of the faces. Giyuu, Gyomei, Tengen, and Mitsuri-

As she introduces them one by one, I can't help but notice the lack of title. Perhaps this is the first night in a long time where they can all truly feel normal. I smile fondly as I relish in such simplicity. I can't imagine sacrificing so much for the life they lead. I am grateful that my village can bring such relief. I bow slightly, offering a deal of my respect to them all.

“Oh! Where is-?”-As if on queue, a familiar booming voice calls from behind me. There he is, the man of the hour. He looks ever so charming. A simple brown yukata giving a sense of comfort to him, and in his hands he’s holding? Dango? Snickers and giggles can be heard from the group behind me.

“Really? You couldn't wait?”-Shinobu’s voice echos all our thoughts as he walks towards me.

“I got hungry! And the vendors were so nice! They said to eat! So-”

“So you bought, -Shinobu starts counting the comical amount of dango sticks in his hand-, 9 sticks?!”-Her voice rings with a hint of laughter as she tries to remain serious.

“A real foodie isn't he?!”-I said with a growing laugh.

He bumps my shoulder as he teases me playfully. The group and their laugh begins to fade as they start to walk up the strip.

“Want one?”-He offers as I oblige.

“Thank you Kyojuro!”-My voice soft as I take one of the sticks. Our fingertips touch ever so gently. Now walking side by side, I feel complete.

Faint rosy lips curve into a smile as violet eyes catch such a simple display of kindness. Shinobu is truly an observant woman.

A blanket of mystery begins to cast over the festivities. Small orbs of twinkling lights shine bright alongside the moon. The night illuminates those in the crowd. The friends, children, and lovers. Beauty is nurtured during the nightly hours.

Throughout the evening, glances between the two are stolen, only to be cut short so the other never uncovers the thievery. During all the events they all enjoy, Kyojuro and Y/N seem to be attached to the hip. From being each other's partner in a quick game, to sitting side by side while drinking. The oblivious behavior, while innocent, drives those around them crazy. How can they not see it?

A bell rings within the crowd. A man announces that the firework display will begin shortly. Mitsuri grabs the arms of Tengen and Giyuu as she runs off happily. Gyomei and Shinobu walk at each other's side trailing behind the three.

“Shall we?”-His hand extends towards mine.

“Please-”

*Placing my small, delicate hand in his fills my heart to the brim. His hand is calloused, yet the palm is gentle and soft. He works hard, so hard. I sometimes wonder more about his story. What more does he have to tell? Will I ever have the pleasure of learning more?

“Are you enjoying yourself little flame?”-He inquires as my thoughts are suddenly cut short. Anchored back in reality, I feel the gravity of where we are and how close we have become.

“Oh! Yes! This is my first festival out with friends. So, I want to thank you all for coming!”

No. I want to thank you for bringing me out of my shell. For making me feel wanted.

His hands squeezed mine before letting go. He takes a moment to sit upon the grass, signaling for me to join him. With a smile, I do just that.

The Hashira are all nearby, watching the night sky patiently. Mitsuri goes on and on about how this night would be better for her if she had a boyfriend. Fitting for the Love Hashira. Everyone else seems to be interested in what the village folk have to offer. Giyuu looking at a certain vendor’s wind chimes. Tengen makes his way to Mitsuri, adding to the conversation of love. “Wives”. Wait. Wives? My eyes go wide as I listen in. Kyojuro takes notice and simply laughs at the exchange.

“So, polyamory? That’s interesting! Though I must say, I would probably find it hard to share. Then again, this is under the assumption that a man would be foolish enough to get wrapped up with me.”-Bits of my insecurity bubbles to the surface. Pouring from my mouth like venom. Perhaps it's the constant reminder of the lovers displaying such soft affection tonight. I envy such complicated simplicity.

I can hear the audible gasp Kyojuro lets out by my side, as if I’ve somehow offended his ancestry. A short pause is interrupted by his thoughts.

“Little flame -He starts slowly-, if I may? Your beauty is unmatched. An alluring charm follows in every movement you make. The words you speak melt those that listen like honey. You are stunning in every aspect of the word. Never sell yourself short.”

As he speaks tenderly, I find myself getting utterly lost in his aura. Not a hint of deception lay in his eyes. He is true. Soon after, my cheeks begin to flush. My heart, while still full, now bursts at the seams. This overwhelming sense of admiration he displays almost makes my heart ache. Our eyes meet as my words fail me. I’m left speechless. For once in my life, I have nothing more to say. However, I am confident my own gaze speaks a thousand words. A part of me cries out-

”Let this reflection reach his heart”

The boom of fireworks igniting in the sky fails to tear them away from each other. And like before, the ever so keenly observant woman smiles.

They’re first realization, and first look of love.

To Lovers-

“You know, you should tell her!”-Her teasing voice echoes through the halls of the Butterfly Estate.

Today is the day. Y/N is moving in temporarily to mentor under Shinobu. Shinobu was impressed the second she heard Kyojuro’s story of her tender care on such a harsh night. While not grave, he was still injured, and she had done such a wonderful job in lending aid. Shinobu has extensive knowledge of medicine. She works diligently to ensure the survival and health of her fellow comrades. If not for the circumstances, her dream would be simple. To be a doctor.

“Tell who, what exactly?”-Kyojuro comes in with a few boxes all while playing the fool.

“Uhm, Y/N? Oh come on! How much longer will this loose act continue? Just admit it. You like her!”

Kyojuro stumbles as he begins to flush, the boxes once in his hand, now toppled over themselves. Disorganized, he attempts to fix his mess

“H-Hey! What are you talking about? Shinobu? Don’t you think that's out of line to say about my friend?”

“Yeah, yeah! All I’m advising is that you tell her the truth. She deserves that. Plus, it’s not like you can hide for much longer! Considering, she’ll be around us more and more!”-She states honestly.

Shinobu kneels down to meet Kyojuro and continues.

“You have a chance to make something of this life. To feel what the rest of us only wish to have. Take it from me. Don’t keep her waiting.”-She speaks from her heart. A rarity in such a headstrong woman. Though, her voice lingers as if she's thinking of someone.

Kyojuro is left alone as she swiftly makes her exit. His thoughts are full as he takes everything she said into consideration. Could it be true?

His thoughts run wild as eventually, she makes her way to the forefront. Everything about her is ethereal. Yet, there's still so much to discover. This is what makes her so alluring to him. Her mind, body, and soul are as mysterious as undiscovered lands. And he wants to be the one that discovers every part of her.

As the evening quickly rolls, Y/N has finally arrived from her long journey. Most of what she wanted all fit inside her large backpack and tote. Although, a lot of what she will miss remains back home. She told all the local children to take good care of her garden, knowing full well they all just said yes to snoop around her home.

Upon reaching the Butterfly Estate, Y/N is greeted by four young girls. Three of them wear the same attire and represent a different color. “How adorable!”-She thought.

“Welcome Miss Y/N! May we take your bags?”-In perfect unison, the three girls take hold of my belongings as I now stand in front of the quiet young one. She has yet to say a word. Though her smile speaks for her. She dawned the uniform of a slayer, she must be Shinobu’s sister. She had mentioned she had an adoptive sister, could she be the one?*

“You’ve arrived safely! Wonderful! I was starting to worry due to the nightfall!”-Shinobu makes her way to the entrance as she speaks in relief.

“Oh! I arrived at the start of the Estate right as the sun went down! No need to worry now!”

She hums softly as she enters back inside, I follow behind as she leads me to what seems to be my bedroom.

“I’ve decided to give you a tour of the Estate grounds in the morning! You must be tired from such a long day! The girls will unpack your belongings if you choose to unwind now!”-She says

Shinobu is such a caring soul, though, a part of me feels as if she’s hiding a great deal of emotion. While she is my mentor, I still see her as a friend. I truly hope she is alright.

“Thank you Shinobu! I appreciate the hospitality!”-I bow slightly as a sign of respect for the lady of the Estate. As I lift myself up, she excuses herself reiterating the start of an early morning. I let out a short breath of relief as I made my way inside my new space.

As the time ticks by, I can't help but wonder about him. It's been about two weeks since the festival. We never ended on a sour note, quite the opposite actually. At least, for me. His words still echo in my mind. I’ve never been complimented so tenderly before. His words have really inched closer and closer to the center of my heart. The prospect of romance has yet to cross my mind this extensively. However, when thinking of him, I feel pure clarity.

The words and emotions stirred within romance novels do not come close to the intensity I felt that night. Such a memory quickly became a core. “I will never stop falling in love with you”-

The feeling of slumber soon takes over my body. As I attempt to drift off, a part of me seems to never let go of my own thoughts. With my mind seemingly running off, I fail to relax. Slowly, I rise from bed and begin to familiarize myself with my new surroundings. A simple and traditional bedroom. Four walls, a roof, and patented floor. A single glow by a candle illuminates my bedside as the open window teases the flame.

I remember vividly wanting nothing more than time for a new adventure. When I think of just that, I picture him beside me. I want to see him again. Two weeks without his presence admittedly, tortured me. I never once thought as to why I felt that way. It seems I’ve truly become smitten with a man that my heart yearns for.

“Yes, I admit it. I will never stop falling in love with you.”-My voice just above a whisper as I begin to feel my body react to such a confession. Without thinking, I get up from bed and begin to roam through a long hall with many rooms. As a traditional home, the faint light from the moon pours into every opening. Reaching the end, the door to what seems to be the back garden is slightly open. Cautiously, my hand reaches out to slowly slide the door, revealing a perfect moment of pure serenity. The moon illuminates a short white stone pathway. Fences stand tall with shrubs and bushes that line up along the wood. Strangely, it takes my eyes a moment to adjust under the night sky. Once done, a small gasp falls from my lips. To my surprise, he is sitting on a garden bench with his back faced towards me. My hands that go limp at my side, grabs hold of my nightly attire. I clench the soft fabric as my heart begins to race. Standing tall, I dare not make any sudden movements, wanting to keep my calm. But of course, as Hashira, he senses someone watching-

“Good evening, I’m sorry to have disturbed you”-He speaks without turning. His voice is calm with a hint of nervousness.

I take a short breath before grabbing hold of my own nerves. My voice shakes slightly as I speak.

“No bother at all, Kyojuro.”-I speak his name out loud for the first time in two weeks. While he entered my mind in passing, and others around asked me of his whereabouts, I did my best to respect his name and give him space. But tonight, I find myself wanting to be selfish. I missed his presence, that much I will admit for now.

“Ah I see. That's good! It is quite late…”-His voice lingers before catching himself once more.

“Would you care to join me little flame?”

There it is. I smile fondly as my gaze softens looking at his back.

“I would love to.”-My frame follows the path leading right to him. With every step I can hear my heartbeat grow louder within my ear drums. My hands begin to clam up as I feel a sense of nervousness wash over me. In what felt like an instant, I am now sitting by his side.

For a moment, we sit in a peaceful silence under the calm night sky. Stars have grown impressively bright alongside the moon. As the breeze picks up gently, the sounds of trees and brush rustling eases my nerves. Critters of the night setting the pace. If not for his warmth emitting to my side, I could truly lose myself in such serenity.

“Isn't the moon lovely?”

My heart stops for just a second before picking back up rapidly. He’s looking to the sky above. A soft smile and faint blush dawns his captivating face. His eyes never leave the luminous glow of the moon. My eyes shimmer as I react similarly. My cheeks grow warmer as I blush. My plump lips slowly curve into a loving smile. As my chest rises and falls at a steady pace, I exhale-

"That is true, isn’t it?"

As if fate decided it’s had enough of this dance, our hands fall to our sides. Inch by inch, our warmth soon becomes one as our hands intertwine. Instinctively, my head rests on his shoulder firmly. He squeezes my hand in reassurance.

Not another word was spoken for quite some time, as it wasn't necessary. Our blossoming love spoke volumes.

They’re first, and last love.

-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈

authors end note:kyojuro rengoku, my only love. i hope i did him justice in your eyes. also, i love shinobu. i had to include my main girl somehow! i really feel reader, kyojuro, & shinobu are all really good friends! i also firmly believe eventually, kyojuro & reader do what they can to help shinobu confess her love for giyuu like how she did them. it's canon in my mind (delulu for fun). anywho-this is my first time back on the saddle in a very long time! so please-comments, questions, and concerns, are always welcomed!

word count:4999-5 (we round up that one to make me look cooler!)

many thank! -babbi₊˚⊹♡

-07/29/23

#anime and manga #kimetsu no yaiba #demon slayer #hashira #rengoku kyojuro #kyojuro rengoku x reader #kny x reader #reader insert #female reader #babbiweebwrites

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