"Gyomei, ah, it's been quite a while!"

"Doctor Watanabe, anything I can do for you? Amitabha."

Teru extended the letter he held to Himejima Gyomei, who maintained the posture of clasped hands.

"Please read this letter."

The Stone Hashira unfolded the parchment. The paper was of exceptional quality, and the ink strokes left on it were not just clear but also conveyed the emotions of the writer at that moment.

Gyomei finished reading the letter, his tranquil expression showing subtle ripples.

"I'm not sure whether Miss Sayo mentioned me in the letter. Regardless, now that you've read the letter, whether you burn it or tear it apart thereafter, it is no longer of my concern."

The doctor let out a gentle sigh and spoke:

"My actions might have been rather offensive, and for that, I apologize."

"No, I understand. Sayo is afflicted by a possibly incurable illness, and this may well be her last wish..."

Gyomei pondered for a moment, then spoke, "I have already forgiven you--Please go back and relay this to her. Amitabha."

With his physique and skill reaching the limits of human capacity, Teru Watanabe could easily discern that Gyomei's words lacked sincerity. Though well-masked, the flow of blood did not deceive.

What a truly kind soul. Despite not having let go of what had happened, he was willing to lie to alleviate the girl's suffering.

"Speaking of which, do you know of any ailment that prevents exposure to sunlight? It's quite a coincidence; I've recently encountered two patients with such symptoms."

Teru changed the topic, asking casually. He didn’t expect any response from the Stone Hashira.

"An ailment that can't bear sunlight... a demon, perhaps? But demons don't fall ill, do they?"

The Stone Hashira chuckled, adeptly diverting the conversation.

Like a lightning bolt, an idea flashed through Teru's mind, triggered by that offhand remark. He remembered what that fleeting insight had been.

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An ailment that can't endure sunlight. But could it really be a human affliction, or could it perhaps be... a demon's ailment?

Muzan...

After exchanging a few more pleasantries, they bid farewell to each other.

Himejima Gyomei held the letter tightly in his hand. He hesitated repeatedly but ultimately refrained from destroying it.

Unexpectedly, Teru Watanabe turned back once more, his expression serious.

"Sorry, but would you share some information about demons for me? You know, anything."

The Stone Hashira was somewhat surprised by the question but patiently provided answers to the doctor who had saved Kagaya Ubuyashiki.

"Demons emerged a thousand years ago as a distinct species, separate from humans. Unlike humans, they have long lifespans, cannot endure sunlight, and feed on human flesh and blood. Hence, they are our enemies.

How did they originate a millennium ago? According to historical records, there was once a woman from the Kagaya family who, for reasons unknown, became the first demon, namely the Demon King. As a result, the Kagaya family incurred a curse from the heavens, with no family head living beyond thirty years. This forms the basis for the Kagaya family's enmity with demons. Only by eradicating the Demon King can they break free from the curse of short lives, allowing their descendants to lead normal lives.

The suffering he endured is immeasurable! Such a gentle, kind-hearted person. Amitabha."

Tears welled up in Himejima Gyomei's tightly closed eyes. He continued.

"The name of the Demon King is...”

“Kibutsuji Muzan."

...

Muzan read through the report, nodding with satisfaction.

The processing of the plan was great. Most of the nobles were under her control now. It was time to launch a decisive assault on the Demon Slayer Corps.

After annihilating the Kagaya family and the Demon Slayers, it would be time to search unreservedly for the Blue Spider Lily. Once the flower was found, she could live with Teru happily ever after.

Thinking of this, Muzan's lips curled into a pleased smile, and a flush of delight colored her cheeks.

"I'm back!"

As usual, her husband burst into the house with a commotion, carrying numerous items. Most of them weren't for him but were gifts for her.

Should she find the right moment to discuss matters of demons with Teru? Muzan wondered.

No. Given his temperament, he would probably react quite negatively, wouldn't he?

Caught in her dilemma, little did she know that Teru Watanabe was wrestling with a similar inner conflict as well.

Before leaving, the Stone Hashira handed him a booklet containing information about the Upper Rank Demons.

The first page featured a portrait of Kokushibou, and the sixth page depicted Daki.

He had to confront a harsh reality—his wife was the Demon King, at odds with humans.

Only he knew the extent of the effort it took him to regain his composure. He vigorously rubbed his face, feigning his usual cheerful demeanor.

After all, if he were to show any displeasure, it would undoubtedly hurt her.

"How was your day?" Muzan whispered.

"Nothing new. Another troublesome patient. I'll be visiting them for the next few days."

"I see. How about we visit together tomorrow?" Muzan rested her chin on Teru's shoulder.

But wait, wasn't it impossible to venture out during the day? Teru turned his head, looking at his wife with surprise.

"The weather forecast says tomorrow is a glommy day, so it's alright."

"Fine. Let's go together then."

With their fingers intertwined, Teru kissed Muzan on her forehead.