The source of it all was Kibutsuji Muzan. By starting with him, they might one day create a medicine that could truly turn demons back into humans.
And seeing Nezuko today, Shinobu Kocho could not help reflecting that what set her apart from other demons was probably the human kindness she still retained.
It allowed her to recognize her brother and see humans as friends.
Shinobu Kocho knew a great deal about Nezuko, including the fact that Urokodaki Sakonji had once hypnotized her.
Together, those two things had made Nezuko who she was now.
Nezuko had no idea what everyone was thinking. She looked curiously around at the people present, then hid shyly behind Tanjiro.
Tetsu no Sosuke laughed. "What an adorable child."
Tanjiro said, a little embarrassed, "Nezuko, everyone here is a good person. You don't need to be afraid."
Nezuko glanced at Tanjiro, saw the encouragement in his eyes, then stood up and nodded to everyone.
Even Kanae could not help smiling. "The first time I saw her, she was still asleep. Seeing her now, she looks so much better like this."
Nezuko looked at Kanae curiously, as though she did not quite understand what she meant.
Tetsu no Sosuke waved everyone over to eat and drink.
And that was the end of the discussion about Nezuko.
They ate and drank while Tanjiro chatted with them. Partway through the meal, Kanae grew tired, so Tetsu no Sosuke asked Kiyo Terauchi to take her back to her room to rest.
When he looked around again, Nezuko was gone.
Tanjiro was startled. "She was right beside me a moment ago. Where did she go?"
He sprang to his feet, ready to rush out and look for her.
Tetsu no Sosuke closed his eyes, but he felt none of the dread