⎣鬼滅の刃⎤ Demon Slayer: [雪花] |Kyōjurō Rengoku x Yuki-onna!Reader|

22: The Final Test

"[Name], thank the heavens you're safe!" Otsune says, embracing you.

It didn't take long for both you and Kyojuro to return to the temple. Otsune had been waiting and was relieved to see you.

You returned her embrace, grateful to see her again.

"Are you alright? That demon didn't hurt you, did it?" The elder woman looked you over for any signs of injury.

"I'm fine, Obachan," you smiled. "Kyo saved me just in time!" You added as Otsune glanced at said flame-haired boy, standing beside you.

"Thank you ever so much, young Rengoku! I am forever grateful!" She said, giving him a tearful smile.

Kyojuro only nodded. Otsune then took note of your attire, "Good heavens! What happened to your clothes?!" She questions after seeing that you were naked and was only wearing Kyojuro's haori.

Once you were out of earshot, Otsune then diverted her attention towards him, her eyes narrowing with concern. The atmosphere seemed to shift, as if a storm was brewing just beneath the surface.

The urgency in her voice was palpable as she uttered, "I sense trouble, Rengoku-san."

There was a hint of unease in her words, as if she had stumbled upon a hidden truth that sent a shiver down her spine. Otsune's instincts, honed by years of experience, rarely faltered, and her intuition now warned her of imminent danger lurking in the shadows. She glanced around, her gaze sweeping the surrounding wilderness, searching for any signs of the impending threat.

"After you slayed the first demon that'd attacked our village, I've been putting tailsmans and wisteria charms all around Yukiyama to keep demons away." She explained.

"However, I fear that they have somehow found another way around." Kyojuro then watched as she pulled out a ripped ofuda. It was the same one that the Demon Slayer Corps used!

"If the demon that'd kidnap (Name) was able to resist the protection seals, then I fear that there are more running about."

Otsune then turned her gaze back towards Kyojuro, and he could clearly see the depth of seriousness reflected in her wise, old brown eyes. It was as if her eyes were windows into a world of wisdom and experience, revealing a determination that surpassed mere words. In that moment, Kyojuro couldn't help but feel a surge of respect for Otsune, admiring her unwavering commitment to her duty as a priestess.

"As priestess of the temple, it's my job to help and heal people. Young Rengoku, would you lend me your aid once more to protect the people of Yukiyama? Not for my sake, but for (Name)'s sake! Rather she denies it or not, Kazahana is still her home."

"Yes!" He replied eagerly.

"Heh, you're just as ardent as ever!" She smirks. "Then consider this your final test!"

Otsune then reached into her pocket and pulled out a small round object. It looked like a small piece of red candy.

"This is akachoko, also known as "red chocolate." It's a special type of candy that, when consumed, you'll be able to attract demons within a 10 meter radius. All depends on how much you eat, of course." She explains.

Kyojuro's eyes widen at this, "Whoa, really?"

"Yes, long ago, it was specifically for demon slayers. However, the product proved to be too much even for the most exceptional warriors, since many had lost their lives to a horde of demons. Therefore, akachoko was banned, and the practice remained forgotten."