The World On His Shoulders | Demon slayer x Male reader

Chapter LXXV

This music made me cry ngl. Demon Slayer soundtrack hit different. (I even listened to it while proofreading lmao T_T )

.

❛ ━━･❪ ❁ ❫ ･━━ ❜

.

Kagaya cleared his throat, capturing the attention of everyone present. "Based on your offenses and the testimonies we've heard, the following sentence will be imposed,"

"Shinazugawa Y/N, you are hereby demoted from the rank of Hashira to Mizunoto, the lowest rank within the Demon Slayer Corps. This demotion is permanent; you will not be eligible for promotion to Hashira ever again."

"Furthermore, your earnings as a Demon Slayer will be seized and redirected to fund the ongoing reparations in the entertainment district and to support the families of the civilians who lost their lives due to your actions."

He then added, "You will be allowed to retain your Nichirin weapons and continue slaying demons. However, your earnings will be substantially limited."

Tengen whispered, "Rather extreme," capturing the shared sentiment of his peers.

"And finally," Kagaya concluded, "you will be exiled from the Demon Slayer Corps. You may continue your work as a demon slayer, but you will do so outside the structure and support of the Corps."

Kagaya then turned to Y/N, "Do you find these terms acceptable, or would you prefer to face capital punishment?"

Y/N bowed his head deeply. "I find them merciful, under the circumstances," he replied.

Kagaya stood up, his posture rigid.

"When should I leave?"

Kagaya struggled to maintain his composure and met Y/N's gaze. "You have a few days to settle your affairs," he replied with sorrow.

As the Hashira dispersed, leaving the courtyard, Kagaya lingered, his eyes fixed on Y/N. "My child, a word, please," he said, gesturing towards the engawa.

Y/N glanced at Kanae, whose expression was nothing but pain, before following Kagaya.

.

❛ ━━･❪ ❁ ❫ ･━━ ❜

.

Once they were alone, Kagaya's facade of neutrality faltered. "This is a conversation I never wanted to have with you, we should be discussing happier things... like your future with Kanae, not this."

He paused, sighing deeply. "She's heartbroken, you know."

Y/N's face tightened. "I know, and it's killing me. I can handle the demotion, the financial penalty, even the hatred and distrust by others... but the exile? Being cut off from everyone... from her...."

Kagaya nodded. "It's a harsh sentence, but anything else would have been seen as lenient I'm truly sorry Y/N. Do you think you can find some semblance of peace, at least?"