Demon Slayer: Dragon Hashira#28/29: Recovery, Reviving Ruka Rengoku, Battling the Former Flame Hashira, Purification Agent.

"?"

"Gyomei-aniki, do you trust me?"

"I trust you, Kaidō." Gyomei answered without hesitation.

"Good. Then please take this pill." He pulled a Revival Pill from his pocket and handed it to Gyomei.

Gyomei accepted the pill and swallowed it immediately, no questions asked.

After about a minute, Gyomei felt something incredible happening.

He could see—Kaidō standing before him, the Master, the other Hashira. Though he'd always been able to hear and sense people through other means, now he could actually see them.

"My eyes... I can see again! Namu Amida Butsu. Young Kaidō, thank you for what you've done for me. This will make fighting alongside you all—and slaying demons—much easier."

Everyone was speechless.

Every single thing Kaidō had done defied imagination. Becoming a Hashira in less than a month. Delaying the Master's curse. Slaying Upper Rank Five. Reviving Kanae Kocho. And now this...

"Obanai, you should take one too." Kaidō produced another Revival Pill and handed it to Obanai.

"I don't need it. Save it for someone who does."

"But you want to live like a normal person, don't you? Even if you won't consider yourself, at least think about Mitsuri-nee."

Obanai struggled internally for a moment before accepting the pill and swallowing it.

"Thank you, Kaidō."

"We're family. No need for thanks."

'Family...' The word echoed in Obanai's mind.

Soon, warmth spread across his face. At visible speed, the grotesque scars began to heal and fade.

"Obanai! Your face—it's healed! I'm so happy! Sob sob... Thank you, Kaidō-kun! Obanai always felt so self-conscious when we were together. Seeing him like that broke my heart. He's such a gentle person—he didn't deserve to suffer like that." Mitsuri's joy was genuine and overwhelming.

"Mitsuri-nee, now you don't have to worry anymore."

"Rengoku, you should take one as well." Kaidō knew that Kyojuro had ruptured his eardrums fighting demons. People had to shout for him to hear properly.

"Mm! Alright, thank you, young Kaidō!" Kyojuro swallowed the pill without hesitation.

"Don't mention it. It's what I should do." Then he turned to Shinobu.

"Shinobu-nee, seems like you didn't take my words to heart."

"Eh? I haven't been injured recently though?"

"Shinobu-nee, you're still ingesting wisteria poison, aren't you? Now that Kanae-nee is alive, you don't need to keep doing that. I'll handle Upper Rank Two—Doma."

"Oh my, Shinobu... is what Kaidō-kun said true?" Kanae's smile remained, but a hint of anger showed through. Of course she'd be upset—this was her little sister. If something happened to Shinobu, Kanae would be devastated.

Kaidō placed a Revival Pill in Shinobu's hand. "Take it. Trust me—I'll deal with Doma."

"I understand. Thank you, Kaidō-kun." She swallowed the pill. Soon, she felt her body changing—the discomfort fading as warm energy flowed through her.

"Thank you, Kaidō-kun, for everything you've done for my sister." Kanae pulled Shinobu close and they both bowed to Kaidō together.

"My child, thank you for everything you've done for the Demon Slayer Corps."

"Master, please—it's my duty. Nothing more."

...

After resolving matters for several Hashira, Kagaya discussed a few more things with everyone before adjourning the meeting.

As everyone prepared to leave, Kaidō called out to Kyojuro.

"Rengoku, wait a moment."

"Young Kaidō, what is it?"

"I'd like to visit your home. I want to meet your father."

"Mm! You're more than welcome! But my father, he..." Kyojuro's expression clouded.

"It's fine, Rengoku. I really want to meet him. If possible, I'll try to bring him back. Just... don't be upset with me if things get rough."

"Of course not, young Kaidō. Come—I'll take you to my home. My younger brother Senjuro has been wanting to meet you. He's heard so much about you."

"Sounds good! Thanks for having me!"

...

The Rengoku Estate

"Big brother, welcome home! Who's this?" A child who looked like a miniature Kyojuro answered the door.

"Senjuro, this is Dragon Hashira—Ryūjin Kaidō."

"Hello, Senjuro! I'm here to visit. Hope I'm not imposing too much."

"You're the Dragon Hashira?? Welcome! I've heard so much about you! I wish I could be like you someday. Then Father wouldn't..." He trailed off sadly.

"Don't worry—that day will come. You'll become even stronger than all of us! And just call me Kaidō."

"Okay! Then I'll call you Kaidō! Please come inside. I'll prepare tea and snacks for you both."

After entering, Kaidō and Kyojuro sat on the tatami mats. Kyojuro began explaining his father's situation.

"About my father... he wasn't always like this. He used to be a powerful Flame Hashira—traveling everywhere to punish evil and slay demons, helping people wherever he went." He recounted his father's history.

The Rengoku family had produced Flame Hashira for generations. Shinjuro was no exception. In his youth, he'd been optimistic and passionate like fire itself, mastering the family's Flame Breathing and becoming Flame Hashira through sheer strength. He protected countless lives.

Twenty years ago, Shinjuro married a woman named Ruka. They had two sons—Kyojuro and Senjuro. While Shinjuro fought demons, Ruka raised their children. The family was happy.

To uphold tradition, both brothers trained in Flame Breathing from childhood to eventually inherit the Flame Hashira position.

Kyojuro showed exceptional talent and inherited his father's optimistic nature. Senjuro lacked swordsmanship aptitude and developed a more pessimistic outlook—but Shinjuro never gave up on him, constantly encouraging him to become someone useful.

However, Ruka's health declined after Senjuro's birth. She became bedridden but insisted on personally teaching both boys.

Nine years ago, during a mission, Shinjuro encountered a child nearly killed by a half-human, half-snake female demon. He easily slew the demon and saved the boy.

But when Shinjuro reunited the child with his only surviving family member—his cousin—the boy was cruelly berated instead of welcomed.

As Shinjuro prepared to leave, the boy begged to join the Demon Slayer Corps. Though confused, Shinjuro agreed. That boy was Obanai Iguro—who later became Snake Hashira.

Soon after, a girl named Mitsuri Kanroji joined seeking a husband. Shinjuro recognized her potential and took her as his Tsuguko.

She later developed Love Breathing from Flame Breathing and became Love Hashira.

But then Ruka's condition suddenly worsened. She passed away.

The loss of his beloved wife shattered Shinjuro completely. He resigned as Flame Hashira, became a shut-in, and drowned himself in alcohol daily. He stopped training his sons entirely.

But strong-willed Kyojuro didn't lose hope. He taught himself using the family's three Flame Breathing manuals and eventually succeeded his father as Flame Hashira.

...

During the story, Senjuro brought tea and snacks, placing them on the table.

"Sorry for the modest hospitality. I hope it's acceptable."

"Thank you, Senjuro."

BANG!

The door burst open.

"Where's my sake??" The man who entered was Kyojuro and Senjuro's father—former Flame Hashira Shinjuro Rengoku. He looked disheveled, unshaven, eyes hollow.

Despite resembling Kyojuro, his yellow-red hair was unkempt, his expression lifeless.

"Hello, Rengoku-san!" Kaidō stood and bowed respectfully.

Shinjuro looked at the white-haired youth with the mark on his forehead. He'd heard about Dragon Hashira—the description matched.

"Tch. Doesn't matter how strong you are. You're just living on borrowed time anyway. You won't last much longer." His tone dripped with contempt.

"Father! You can't speak to him like that! Young Kaidō has—"

"It's fine, Rengoku. I don't mind." Kaidō gestured that it was okay.

"Where's my sake?? Hurry up and bring it!" Shinjuro roared before turning to leave.

"Yes, I'll prepare it right away. Kaidō, I'm so sorry—my father has caused trouble for you." Senjuro apologized profusely.

"It's okay, Senjuro. Let me go talk to him."

"But—"

"Trust me."

"Alright. Thank you, Kaidō."

...

Kaidō entered the small building at the back where Shinjuro was staying.

"Excuse me, Rengoku-san."

"What do you want?? Get lost! Genius or not, Hashira or not—you're still just a dead man walking!" Shinjuro tried to throw him out immediately.

"Rengoku-san, here—this is for you." Kaidō pulled Hundred Flowers Wine from his system inventory—the reward he'd been saving. Finally had a use for it.

"Hm? What incredible fragrance! Better than anything I've ever had! Kid, sell me this sake! Name your price—I'll pay it!"

"This is called Hundred Flowers Wine—brewed from a hundred varieties of famous flowers. I'll give it to you. But I want you to stop wallowing in self-pity."

"Brat, my business is none of yours! Either sell it or get out!" Despite his words, Shinjuro's eyes never left the bottle. The aroma was intoxicating, making him swallow repeatedly.

"Rengoku-san, do you think the way you are now does justice to Kyojuro and Senjuro? Self-destructive, depressed, slovenly. If Ruka-san saw you like this, could you face her? Kyojuro and Senjuro looked up to you. But look at yourself now—what have you become? I may be living on borrowed time, but so what? At least I'll do what needs doing before I die. Life has an end, sure—but we live to avoid regrets. Even if I only had one day left, I'd make it count! That's all I have to say. Do what you want." He placed the bottle in front of Shinjuro and walked out.

Shinjuro grabbed the bottle, ready to hurl it away. But remembering Kaidō's words—and that irresistible aroma—he couldn't bring himself to do it.

Glug glug glug.

"Damn good sake!" But Kaidō's words kept echoing in his mind.

"Ruka... maybe he's right. Can't believe I just got schooled by a kid. But... what am I supposed to do now?" He took another drink.

...

"Kaidō, my father didn't give you trouble, did he?" Senjuro rushed over as Kaidō emerged.

"Not at all. Senjuro, could I offer incense at your mother's memorial?"

"Of course! Please follow me."

Senjuro led him to a side room. Opening the door revealed Ruka Rengoku's memorial tablet. The room was spotlessly clean. Kaidō lit three incense sticks and bowed respectfully.

"Thank you for your hospitality today, Senjuro. The tea and snacks were delicious."

"You're too kind, Kaidō! My father caused you trouble. Please forgive us."

"Not at all—I actually enjoyed myself. I have some matters to attend to, so I'll take my leave. Please give Rengoku my apologies."

"Of course! Please visit again anytime, Kaidō!"

"I will. Thanks for having me!"

...

After leaving the Rengoku estate, Kaidō returned home. An idea formed in his mind—but he quickly dismissed it.

"Heh, what am I thinking? Ruka-san passed away over three years ago. If only I could revive her..."

[Host, it can be done. But there will be a cost.]

The Demon Slayer System sensed his turmoil and responded.

"Really?? What's the cost?"

[Host must infuse a portion of Interdimensional Energy into the Heart of Revival along with mental energy. The process will be significantly more painful than before.]

"How much energy?"

[Searching... Search complete! Required Interdimensional Energy: 30%.]

"Thirty percent..." Kaidō stroked his chin thoughtfully.

"Do it."

[Host, are you certain? This will delay your journey home considerably.]

"If I could, I'd go home right now. But... I don't know why, I just feel like I need to do this. Maybe it's just what my heart wants."

[Understood. This system unconditionally supports Host's decisions.]

"Thanks, System."

...

The Next Day

After arranging everything, Kaidō prepared to revive Ruka Rengoku. The system warned that this revival would be more agonizing—he'd fall unconscious for anywhere from one to three days. He informed the Kakushi, then personally visited Kagaya to request someone temporarily manage his territory for ten days. The Master agreed without question—he trusted that if Kaidō said it was important, it was. Kyojuro and Obanai, whose territories were closest, agreed to help.

Then Kaidō visited the Butterfly Mansion and asked Kanae to help him.

"Oh my, what a rare visit! Kaidō-kun, you're in such a rush—does your big sister need to help with something?"

Kaidō explained his decision. Kanae stared at him in shock.

"Kaidō-kun, do you understand what this could cost you? The price is enormous—you might even..."

"I know, Kanae-nee. But I can't explain why—I just feel like I need to do this. Don't worry. I still have things I need to finish. I won't die."

Kanae stepped forward and embraced him. "You're such an idiot."

...

"Everything's ready. Kanae-nee, I'm counting on you after this."

"I know. I'll guard the door. No one will disturb you."

Kanae left the room to stand watch outside.

Kaidō retrieved the Heart of Revival from his inventory. This one looked different—infused with Interdimensional Energy, the golden runes flowing across it seemed deeper, more complex.

"Here goes..." He visualized Ruka Rengoku's appearance and injected his mental energy.

"Ngh... this hurts..." Cold sweat immediately beaded on his forehead. This process was far more agonizing than reviving Kanae. His soul felt like it was being shredded, reassembled, then shredded again—like being thrown into a blender. The pain was unbearable.

What Kaidō didn't notice: behind him stood the spirit of a woman in a blue-green kimono with a side braid and red eyes, watching him silently.

She bowed deeply. "Thank you, child. Thank you for everything you've done for my husband and my children."

<><><><><><><><>

"Has he still not woken up?"

"Not yet. He's been unconscious for three days now. I wonder when he'll come to."

"This poor child has been through so much."

"He's such an idiot! Always thinking about others, never himself." Kanae poked Kaidō's cheek. "Doesn't value his own life at all."

"Yes, he really is a bit foolish. Some things aren't worth what he's sacrificing. But maybe that's exactly why everyone adores him, don't you think?" The other woman gently stroked Kaidō's small face.

...

"Ngh... head's spinning..."

When Kaidō opened his eyes, he found himself lying on a soft pillow again. Two familiar spheres appeared before his vision. By pure instinct, his hand reached out and grabbed one.

"Oh my! Kaidō-kun, you're being very naughty! I believe I mentioned that girls' chests aren't for touching? Be careful—your big sister might actually get angry!"

"Huh?? What's happening again?" The familiar scenario, familiar action, familiar words...

'Wait, why did I say "again"?'

"Are you going to get up? My legs are completely numb!"

Kaidō immediately scrambled upright—and once again faced Kanae Kocho's healing smile.

"Kaidō-kun, I'm starting to suspect you're doing this on purpose. Mm-hmm!"

"Wha— what??!"

"Alright, alright, Kanae-san, stop teasing him! Look—his face is completely red!" An elegant woman kneeling beside Kanae giggled.

Looking at the woman beside Kanae, Kaidō felt a sense of familiarity. Then it clicked.

"You're... Ruka Rengoku?"

"Child, thank you. Let me introduce myself—I'm Ruka Rengoku. You can call me Ruka-san, like you did at the Rengoku estate." Her smile was warm and gentle.

"Wait—you saw all of that?" Remembering how he'd lectured Shinjuro that day made him cringe with embarrassment. That was her husband, after all.

"Don't worry—I wasn't offended. In fact, you were completely right. Watching him spiral like that... it broke my heart."

"Phew~ that's a relief. Though you don't want your husband continuing down that path anyway, right?" The moment those words left his mouth, Kaidō felt like something was off about that phrasing—but he couldn't pinpoint what, so he let it go.

"Ruka-san, about your revival—please keep it secret for now. I still have one more thing to do. Once that's settled, you can reunite with your husband, Kyojuro, and Senjuro. For the next few days, I'll ask the Master to have you stay with his wife."

"I understand. Kanae-san explained everything about the revival. Thank you for paying such an enormous price for me. If you ever need anything—after I've seen my husband and children—I'll do everything in my power to help you." Ruka bowed deeply.

"No need for that."

Kaidō wrote a letter detailing the situation and his plan, then called Kuroha to deliver it to Kagaya.

After reading the letter, Kagaya felt the weight of Kaidō's thoughtfulness.

"You've worked so hard, my child."

"Kagaya, what is it?"

Kagaya showed the letter to Amane. After reading it, she sighed. "He's put so much thought into this."

"We'll do everything he's requested. Amane, let's go pick up Ruka together. After that, we'll leave things in Kaidō's hands."

"Yes."

...

The Next Morning

Bright and early, Kaidō set out for the Rengoku estate with his greatsword on his back and Nichirin blade in hand. On the way, he encountered Kyojuro.

"Rengoku, good morning."

"Young Kaidō, good morning! Coming to my home so early—is something wrong?"

"Rengoku, I'm here to challenge your father. Or more accurately, the former Flame Hashira—Shinjuro Rengoku."

"Mm, I understand. Go ahead."

"Rengoku, aren't you going to ask why?"

"I trust you."

Those three simple words warmed Kaidō's heart. Being trusted unconditionally felt incredible.

"Thank you, Rengoku. Don't worry—I'll hold back. Also, after my match with your father ends, I'd like you, him, and Senjuro to wait at home together. I've prepared a big surprise for you all."

"Alright! Hahaha! I'm looking forward to your gift!"

...

Kaidō entered the back courtyard where Shinjuro was staying.

Shinjuro, currently drinking, looked up to see Kaidō approaching with weapons. "Kid, what do you want?"

Kaidō said nothing. He simply tossed his Nichirin blade in front of Shinjuro, then drew the greatsword from his back. Lowering his fox mask, he assumed a battle stance.

Shinjuro stood, eyeing Kaidō carefully. "What's your game? Want to challenge me? Heh, kid, you're awfully cocky. Let me make something clear—even though I'm not Flame Hashira anymore, you don't stand a chance against me."

Kaidō still didn't speak. He let his actions do the talking.

"Dragon Breathing, First Form: Dragon's Breath."

Kaidō vanished instantly, leaving only an afterimage. The next moment, he appeared directly in front of Shinjuro.

"So fast!" Shinjuro sobered up considerably and dodged sideways.

BOOM!

A massive crater appeared where Shinjuro had just been standing.

"You crazy brat! Stop this right now, or I won't go easy on you!"

"Water Breathing, First Form: Water Surface Slash."

'This kid knows two Breathing Styles??'

Kaidō's display shattered Shinjuro's understanding.

The horizontal slash came straight at him. Shinjuro had no choice but to dodge, quickly grabbing the Nichirin blade from the ground and counterattacking.

"Flame Breathing, Second Form: Rising Scorching Sun!" An upward arc slash like blazing flames neutralized Kaidō's attack.

"Dragon Breathing, Fifth Form: Violent Tempest!" Gripping his sword with both hands, Kaidō swung rapidly, unleashing hundreds of blade projections toward Shinjuro.

Though retired, Shinjuro was still a former Hashira. His strength remained formidable. He reacted instantly.

"Flame Breathing, Fourth Form: Blooming Flame Undulation!" Spinning with himself as the center, he created a vortex of flames that dispersed Kaidō's sword energy.

Despite his anger, Shinjuro's fighting spirit was reignited. He switched to offense.

...

"Hurry, hurry! Dragon Hashira-sama is challenging the former Flame Hashira right now! This is a battle between Hashira! I've got to watch carefully—this'll definitely help my training later!"

"Hey, hey, Murata, wait up!"

"You two, wait for me! I'm coming too!"

"Me too, me too! Don't leave me behind!"

This was all by Kaidō's design. In his letter to Kagaya, he'd requested that word be spread throughout Corps Headquarters about his challenge to the former Flame Hashira.

Two purposes:

First, to rekindle Shinjuro's fighting spirit and pull him from his downward spiral.

Second, let Corps members observe a battle between Hashira. This would deepen their understanding of Breathing techniques and help them gauge their own strength, ultimately improving their abilities. How much they learned was up to them.

...

Butterfly Mansion

"Sister, aren't you worried about Kaidō-kun? That's the former Flame Hashira. Even retired, he's incredibly powerful."

"Don't worry, Shinobu. I trust Kaidō-kun. Right, Kanao?"

Kanao Tsuyuri. Kaidō had met her several times while recovering at the Butterfly Mansion.

Kanao nodded in agreement, still characteristically quiet.

Since Kanae's return, the Butterfly Mansion had become livelier. The patients there had learned something extraordinary: Dragon Hashira Ryūjin Kaidō had traded his own lifespan to revive Kanae Kocho. This deepened their respect for him tremendously. They'd heard he was kind and humble, treating everyone with warmth—but showing demons no mercy.

...

The Rengoku Estate's Back Courtyard

Demon Slayers lined the outer wall, peering over to observe the battle between the former Flame Hashira and Dragon Hashira. The fight had reached a fever pitch.

"Flame Breathing, Fifth Form: Flame Tiger!" Shinjuro switched from defense to offense, thrusting forward. A massive tiger-shaped slash wreathed in flames charged toward Kaidō.

"Dragon Breathing, Eighth Form: Wandering Dragon Breakthrough!" Kaidō responded instantly, swinging his greatsword as he rushed forward. Only afterimages and sword energy remained—like a dragon charging toward that flaming tiger.

CLANG!

Steel clashed. The collision generated shockwaves that rippled outward. Both combatants were forced back, sliding dozens of meters.

"N-no way... this is a battle between Hashira?? If I were standing there, I'd have been blown away instantly! I'm so glad I came to watch this."

"Shh! Keep it down. Watch carefully, learn everything you can. This'll definitely help our training later."

"I finally get to see something like this—I don't want to miss a single detail."

While the spectators watched from the wall, Shinjuro and Kaidō clashed again, weapons swinging.

CLANG CLANG CLANG!

CRASH!

This time, neither used Breathing techniques—pure swordsmanship. The observers could only see both fighters crossing blades repeatedly in rapid succession.

BOOM!

They separated once more.

"Flame Breathing, Ninth Form: Purgatory!"

"Dragon Breathing, Ninth Form: Cyclone Pierce!"

Shinjuro's entire body became wreathed in scorching flames, exploding forward like a meteor.

Kaidō spun at high speed with his blade, generating an explosive drilling thrust.

CRASH!

The collision created a circular crater ten meters in diameter and thirty to forty centimeters deep at their point of impact.

Seeing this, both withdrew their weapons and ceased fighting.

"Phew~ as expected of the former Flame Hashira. Your mastery of Flame Breathing is still incredibly powerful." Kaidō removed his mask, letting it hang at an angle on his head.

"Not bad yourself, kid. You actually made me break a sweat! Looks like you came well-prepared. Though I doubt this challenge was as simple as it seemed." Shinjuro glanced at the spectators lining the wall.

"Hehe, you caught on."

"Alright, get out of here. You've achieved your goal. Consider this payment for that bottle you gave me before."

"Rengoku-san, don't leave yet. I've prepared a gift. I hope you'll wait. If you miss this gift, you'll regret it for the rest of your life."

"Hmph. You never bring good news, kid. Fine—let's see what you've got."

"Good! I'd also like you to have Rengoku and Senjuro wait with you. This gift is for all three of you."

"Whatever, whatever. Just don't bother me."

"Father." Kyojuro and Senjuro called out together.

"You two, don't disturb me."

"Yes, Father." Their voices harmonized.

Though their father seemed unchanged, his tone had softened considerably. For them, this was already a good start.

"Young Kaidō, thank you!"

"Don't mention it."

"Hey, brat—don't forget to fix all the damage you caused here. Or I won't let you off easy."

"Uh..." Kaidō surveyed the crater-riddled ground. 'Didn't you hit the hardest just now??'

He summoned Kuroha and sent word to Kagaya that the final phase could begin.

...

Two Hours Later

Kagaya Ubuyashiki and his wife Amane arrived by carriage. Accompanying them was Ruka Rengoku.

Kuroha returned to inform Kaidō of the Master's arrival.

"Master."

"Child, thank you. If Shinjuro-san is willing to return, it will be a tremendous boon for the Demon Slayer Corps."

"You're too kind, Master. If Rengoku-san comes back, we'll have one more safeguard—and it'll boost Corps morale significantly."

"Ruka-san, I've prepared this mask for you. Please wear it. I'll take you to meet your husband, Kyojuro, and Senjuro shortly." The mask purchased from the System Lifestyle Shop—featured a lotus flower design. If Ruka wore his mask, Shinjuro would probably chase him through the streets with a Nichirin blade.

"Alright. Thank you." Ruka accepted the mask and put it on.

Following Kaidō's letter, Amane had dressed Ruka in new clothes and styled her hair before departure. With the mask on, she was completely unrecognizable.

Leading Kagaya, Amane, and Ruka into the courtyard, Kaidō immediately noticed the devastated landscape—craters everywhere. Embarrassment flooded through him. He looked away, both index fingers poking together nervously. If not for the letter explaining his plan, Kagaya wouldn't know how to interpret this scene.

"Pfft!" Both Amane and Ruka covered their mouths, giggling at Kaidō's adorable reaction.

"It's alright, child. This isn't your fault. I'll have people repair everything."

"Actually... I already notified the Kakushi. They'll be here soon to fix it."

"Well then, let's not delay. Time to meet them."

"Master." Kyojuro and Senjuro stood and bowed upon seeing Kagaya.

"No need for formalities, Kyojuro, Senjuro."

"Rengoku, Senjuro—no matter what happens next, please stay calm."

"Understood."

"Follow me." Kaidō led Ruka toward Shinjuro. As they passed Kyojuro and Senjuro, both brothers felt an inexplicable sense of familiarity—warmth stirring in their chests. But remembering Kaidō's warning, they remained silent.

Shinjuro was lying on a tatami mat with his back to them.

"Rengoku-san, I've brought your gift."

Shinjuro turned his head, glancing at the masked woman. Something about her felt familiar—but thinking of Ruka made him turn away. "Kid, if you think some random woman will sway me, you're dead wrong. Ruka's the only one in my heart. There's no room for anyone else."

"Dear." Ruka spoke softly.

Hearing that voice, Shinjuro thought he was hallucinating. He shot upright, staring at the masked woman.

"Don't you recognize me, dear?" Ruka removed the mask, revealing her face.

"Ru...Ruka? Is it really you?" Shinjuro's voice trembled.

"Yes. It's me, dear. I'm home."

"RUKAAAAAAAAAAAA!" Shinjuro rushed forward and embraced her tightly. "Do you have any idea how much I've missed you?? All these years, I've thought about you constantly. I had so much to say—but you weren't there anymore."

Seeing their mother, Kyojuro and Senjuro's emotions overflowed. Tears streamed down their faces as they rushed forward, joining the embrace.

"Mother."

"Mother! Senjuro missed you so much!"

"My sweet children, I've missed you too. If not for Kaidō bringing me back, I couldn't have seen any of you again."

A family of four, reunited at last.

[Ding! Congratulations! Hidden Quest Complete: Family Reunion]

The system notification chimed in Kaidō's mind.

[Rewards: Interdimensional Energy +20%, Purification Agent x1]

[Current Interdimensional Energy: 50%]

[Purification Agent: Transforms demons back into humans. Note: Only effective on Lower Rank demons.]

'Purification Agent?? Not bad. I'll save it—might be useful later. Two-thirds of the energy I spent has been restored. Still short, but every bit counts!' Kaidō thought contentedly.

Watching the Rengoku family's tearful reunion, Kaidō's face split into that scheming auntie smile—like he'd just eaten something unbearably sweet.

Then his body started feeling wrong.

'Damn... reviving Ruka-san drained all my mental energy. I haven't rested properly these past few days, and then fighting Shinjuro just now...' His head grew fuzzy.

Shinjuro approached with Ruka, Kyojuro, and Senjuro. He bowed. "Kaidō, I apologize for my behavior before. I'm sorry. And thank you for bringing Ruka back to me."

No response came. Looking up, Shinjuro saw Kaidō's eyes closing as he collapsed.

"Child!"

"Young Kaidō!"

"Kaidō!"

Shinjuro caught him immediately. Everyone gathered around, deeply concerned.

"Child, wake up!"

"What happened to him?"

"Kanae-san said he traded his lifespan to revive people. Could he be..."

"Quickly! Take him to the Butterfly Mansion!"