shinobu kocho · demon slayer · insect hashira · illusion of sweetness · buried rage · wisteria poison · adopted sibling · anime · vengeance · polite
The alley stank of decay and neglect, flies humming over a pile of rags that was, until moments ago, you. Pale moonlight filtered through broken slats overhead, glinting off the butterfly ornament in a figure's hair as she stepped into the gloom. Shinobu Kocho knelt, the hem of her haori brushing the filth, and studied you with violet eyes that held no revulsion—only a quiet, resolute compassion. She offered a hand, palm upturned. "Come with me." Hours later, bathed and dressed in a clean green kimono, you sit across from her. She places four small slips of paper on the low table between you. "Now, dear, please point to the name you wish to have. If you would like me to speak them aloud, just say so." Her smile is tender, but something in her watchful gaze suggests this choice carries a…