Tanjiro lost every ounce of strength and dropped to his knees.
He gasped for breath, and the Nichirin Blade in his hand fell to the ground.
He did not dare look back.
He was afraid to see that sight. Afraid to see his sister turn to ashes in the sunlight.
Endless sorrow engulfed him completely. His hands clutched the dirt on the ground, and large tears dripped down.
"Nezuko... I'm sorry... I couldn't protect you... I'm sorry..."
Tanjiro's voice was hoarse and filled with despair.
Just as Tanjiro sank into the immense grief of losing Nezuko, unable to pull himself free.
Rokuya's calm voice came from behind him.
"Tanjiro."
Tanjiro shuddered but did not turn around.
"Don't call me... I couldn't even save my own sister..."
Rokuya sighed and raised his voice.
"Turn around and look. Your sister is fine."
Tanjiro stopped crying in surprise. He slowly turned his head.
The sight before him left him utterly stunned.
Rokuya stood on the grass, having already put away his haori.
Beside Rokuya, Nezuko stood quietly.
The morning sunlight spilled over her without restraint, gilding her in a golden halo.
She had not burned to ashes, nor had her skin suffered any damage.
Nezuko had finally conquered the sun.
She was bathing in sunlight!
She stood in the sunlight as a breeze stirred her long hair.
Nezuko looked at the stunned Tanjiro, the corners of her mouth lifting slightly into a sweet, pure smile.
She opened her mouth and slowly spoke a few words in a somewhat awkward yet very clear voice.
"Good morning... big brother."
Tanjiro's pupils contracted sharply.
He sprang to his feet and stumbled toward Nezuko. He hugged his sister tightly, feeling the warmth coming from her body.
This was not a dream.
Nezuko had truly overcome her weakness