Changes in Upper Rank Three

A red glow crept across the sky as the night rapidly faded.

Kanae silently walked up behind Makomo, who stood frozen in place.

"Um... the demon's gone!"

Makomo nodded quietly.

"I know. I couldn't stop him after he suddenly grew stronger. It seems I still have a long way to go. My master would be disappointed if he saw this."

She looked down at Cherry Blossom Snow, shattered in her hand.

"Thank you for everything. That move had already pushed you to your limit. I'm sorry I couldn't protect you."

Seeing Makomo talk to the sword in her hand, Kanae couldn't help smiling.

She's so kind. And she doesn't look very old. I wonder who taught such a formidable student.

That strike had been breathtaking. Even now, remembering it sent a tremor through Kanae's heart.

If I could recruit her into the Demon Slayer Corps...

At the thought, Kanae raised her head and studied Makomo closely.

She was cold and beautiful, with an air that warned strangers to keep their distance. Yet beneath it lay an exceptionally gentle heart. Kanae could see it in Makomo's clear eyes and the trace of guilt within them.

They were the eyes of an innocent child who knew little of the world. Makomo might even be younger than she was.

"Um..."

Now that Makomo might be younger than her, Kanae wasn't sure how to address her.

Makomo looked up, her cool gaze settling on the shorter, remarkably gentle woman.

"My name is Makomo. Did you need something else?"

Perhaps sensing Kanae's hesitation, Makomo gave her name outright.

Kanae smiled warmly. "What a thoughtful girl."

"Makomo, do you have somewhere to go? Why not come with me to the Demon Slayer Corps? With your strength and a Nichirin Sword made for killing demons, that one