Demon Slayers: Swordsman
Chapter 21
Ren smiled gently at Mitsuri, his expression sincere. "Of course, I'll be happy to have you as my student."
He truly meant every word. If Mitsuri had asked him to stay away, he would have done so without hesitation, no matter what he felt.
Ren had always been like that. Somewhere deep inside, he constantly questioned himself—wondering if he was being too selfish, if his actions were bothering others.
That was why he had given Mitsuri time to decide. And hearing Kanae say that he hadn't neglected them… it eased something heavy in his chest.
Mitsuri smiled brightly, her earlier hesitation gone. "Then I'll be in your care, Teacher."
Ren laughed lightly at her enthusiasm, and soon everyone gathered for breakfast. The atmosphere was warm and lively as they shared the meal together.
Later, Ren trained with Shinobu, Kanae, and Kanao, guiding them while correcting their movements. Mitsuri stood nearby, carefully observing their techniques and flow.
After a while, she stepped forward and began sparring with Kanae using wooden swords. Their movements were swift, though Mitsuri was still rough around the edges.
Meanwhile, Ren stood slightly apart, holding a wooden sword as he observed everything. His mind worked rapidly as he began designing a breathing style specifically for Mitsuri.
Her Love Breathing from the original timeline was strong, but with her unique physique—her flexibility, agility, and raw strength—she had the potential to become far more powerful.
Ren was determined to make her one of the strongest Hashira in this timeline.
He visualized countless sword forms in his mind, refining and adjusting them. He needed a style that perfectly complemented her body—something fluid, fast, and unpredictable.
After forming a rough outline, he called out to her. "Mitsuri, fight me. Don't think—just move however your body wants."
"Hai!" Mitsuri responded, immediately attacking him with her wooden sword.
Ren parried effortlessly, his eyes observing everything through the Transparent World—her muscle movements, breathing rhythm, even the subtle changes in her heartbeat.
Time passed as the training continued.
After nearly an hour, Mitsuri's arms trembled, her clothes drenched in sweat. She stepped back, struggling to catch her breath.
"Ano… Ren… I can't fight anymore…" she said, panting heavily.
Ren nodded. "You did well. And you are stronger than before "
Mitsuri beamed instantly at the praise, her exhaustion momentarily forgotten. "Hehe… the food you make is so good. It makes my tummy go woooow… and after a nap, my body doesn't even hurt anymore."
Ren grinned at her words. "Don't worry, I'll keep making that food. Soon, you'll be strong enough to punch a demon to death."
Mitsuri puffed her cheeks, pouting. "Mou… I don't want to become a monster."
Ren casually wrapped an arm around her shoulders. "I'm not joking. And even if you do become a monster… you'll be a beautiful one."
Mitsuri's face turned red instantly. "S-Stop teasing me!"
Ren sighed dramatically. "What can I do? You're just too cute when you blush."
Mitsuri covered her face with both hands, unable to handle his words.
Shinobu watched the interaction before stepping forward. "You really have no shame, do you? Stop teasing poor Mitsuri."
Ren glanced at her with a smirk. "Tsk, Mitsuri… someone seems jealous of you."
Mitsuri peeked through her fingers toward Shinobu, her heart still racing.
Shinobu's cheeks flushed slightly. "Who's jealous?" she said, walking up to Ren.
Without hesitation, she leaned forward and captured Ren's lips in a deep kiss. Her arms wrapped around his neck. She separated licking her lips. Mitsuri stared at them wide eyes, cheeks flushed and hands on mouth.
"I can do this," she added calmly. "Why would I be jealous?"
Mitsuri froze completely, her face turning a deep crimson. "Sh-Shinobu-san just ki-kissed Ren!?" she looked at Shinobu in embarrassment and admiration.
Aoi and Kanao also stood still in shock, their minds unable to process what they had just seen.
"Shinobu-sama and Ren-sama…" Aoi muttered, her face red as her imagination spiraled wildly.
Kanae simply laughed softly, clearly amused. "Ara… Shinobu is being quite bold today."
From that moment onward, whispers began spreading throughout the Demon Slayer Corps—
New stories about Shinobu and Ren began circulating. Each one more rediculas.