Fandom Demon Slayer: North America (Lore) [Closing]

White Masquerade · Jan 23, 2022

Demon Slayer: North America

Welcome one and welcome all to the lore of Demon Slayer: North America. An extension of the anime series "Demon Slayer", this takes a look at the world from the eyes of those on a different continent. No lore will be changed from the original Demon Slayer. The only thing this will lore will do is add and expand upon the material that is already there. For these reasons, I will be monitoring things to make sure they keep in line with the lore (and correct it if needed), but will be open and welcome to any creative additions a participant wants to add. Now without further ado, here is the lore for Demon Slayer on the North American continent.

Nichirin weapons are special arms used by and made specifically for the Demon Slayer Corps to slay demons. They are forged from a unique ore that constantly absorbs sunlight, one of the only major weaknesses of Demons. Therefore, severing the neck-bone with a Nichirin weapon is one of the only ways a human can kill a demon, the other being the use of a Wisteria-poison coated weapon. Nichirin weapons take on a distinct color when first touched by their owner, which is why they are also referred to as "Color Changing Arms". However, the holder is required to have a certain amount of skill, or the material will not change color. Nichirin weapons are forged with Scarlet Crimson Iron Sand and Scarlet Ore, both of which are found on high mountains like the Great Smoky Mountains, which is perpetually bathed in sunlight all throughout the year in the Blue Ridge Range of mountains.

Demon Slayer recruits choose their own ore after successfully passing the Final Selection. The ore will then be used by a gun or metalsmith of the Moses Browning Outpost during the forging process, and either he or his acolytes will personally bring the weapon to the Demon Slayer. Additionally, after the Demon Slayer reaches the rank of Hashira, their weapons will be engraved with the words "Destroyer of Demons". Each Nichirin weapon contains a handclasp, or grip, that aids the slayer in keeping hold onto the weapon when performing their breathing's more intricate moves. It is located where comfort is best and can come in a variety of colors and shapes.

Nichirin weapons change color depending upon the user, making each item unique. They can be of many colors. Each color is said to impart certain properties to the weapon. The properties of black Nichirin weapons are not well understood, causing them to be considered a bad omen that the Demon Slayer will not go far (due to dying before much can be learned about the blade). Aside from bright red weapons, which seem to hamper the regeneration of demons, other colors for Nichirin arms include black, amber, blue, grey, green, indigo-gray, lavender, lavender-blue, light pink, dark pink, light purple, red, white, and yellow. The characteristics for each color are as follows:
- Red - A representation of ferocity and heat, red nichirin weapons hamper the regeneration ability of demons.
- Purple - A representation of perception and intuition, purple nichirin weapons can detect the presence of demons.
- White - A representation of truth and purity, white nichirin weapons give off a light that blinds demons the closer they get.
- Gray - A representation of obscurity and equilibrium, gray nichirin weapons are lightweight and completely void of sound.
- Green - A representation of growth and renewal, green nichirin weapons have an extreme magnetic attraction to green nichirin.
- Indigo - A representation of integrity and sincerity, indigo nichirin weapons repel demons’ blood.
- Amber - A representation of vibrance and positivity, amber nichirin weapons are highly reactive and temporarily enhance the abilities of nichirin they come in contact with.
- Yellow - A representation of energy and cheerfulness, yellow nichirin weapons are batteries that emit electricity strong enough to shock demons when charged in the sunlight.
Always on the prowl for new innovations in technology may it be medical or militarily, the Demon Slayer Corps of North America has taken to combining the properties of different colored Nichirin in hopes of generating a combination that'd give them an edge against the demons. While the mixing of Nichirin ores can sometimes yield powerful results, the products are usually unstable and hard to produce. Though a budding field, researchers and engineers working on the union of Nichirin ores would admit that there are still lots of hoops to jump through before it can turn into something that can help them win the war. The results produced from each experimental combo are as follows:
- Ambereen - A combination of Amber and Green Nichirin, these weapons produce a gravitational force, due to the amber properties sending the green characteristics into an unstable overdrive.
Jamestown Animals are creatures used by the Demon Slayer Corps in North America, primarily for communication. Each of them is assigned to a Demon Slayer Corps member and they deliver missions to their designated members. A favored species to use by slayers working under the Pinkerton Alliance, Bald Eagles were adopted by members of the organization after research showed carrier pigeons were dwindling sharply in supply and faced risk of an imminent extinction. While some members prefer to use creatures like crows and ducks - they are in the minority. However, if there is a creature that can be tamed, it can technically be used. You can never really know what you'll find floating around in the American Demon Slayer Corps.

Regarding these companion animals, they're special in that they can speak in full sentences usually, though their speech is very loud and limited. Most generally look and speak similarly, though there are a few exceptions to the rule, such as some wearing jewelry or not being able to speak at all.
The Kakushi are a brigade of people who work as attendants to the Demon Slayer Corps. They wear black versions of the standard Demon Slayer uniforms consisting of a silk jacket and linen pants, along with a black head covering and a black and white mask to conceal their identities. The Kakushi are a brigade responsible for different tasks, which can range from providing services to Corps members to cleaning up the battlefield after Demon attacks. Other tasks preformed by the Kakushi include:
1. Serving as attendants to the residences of demon slayers, where they provide aid and healing to the manor's residents and all those on the premises.
2. Cleaning the mess often left behind after a large battle.
3. Sewing and repairing the uniforms Demon Slayers wear.
4. Transporting people to and from the Moses Browning Outpost.
5. In some cases, Kakushi are Demon Slayers who have been injured and retire from being Demon Slayers. There are also individuals who failed to pass the Final Selection examination but become Kakushi in order to still be of use to the Demon Slayer Corps.
A Tsuguko is an exceptionally talented combatant of the Demon Slayer Corps who is designated as the apprentice and eventual successor of one of the Hashira.
There are two ways for a Demon Slayers to become a Tsuguko, one can either apply for the position and get accepted, or they can be scouted by one of the current Hashira. A Tsuguko normally uses the same Breathing Style as the Hashira they serve under, though this isn't a strict requirement.

The purpose of the Tsuguko is to take the place of the Hashira they serve if and when said Hashira is put in a position where they can no longer fulfill their role as one of the champions of the Demon Slayer Corps, such as when the Hashira retires or dies.
Wisteria Flower is a plant predominantly used by the Demon Slayer Corps to combat Demons. Sometime in the past, a noble family was saved from Demons by the Demon Slayer Corps. To express their gratitude, the family designed their family crest with a Wisteria flower so corps members would be able to identify the home, and stay there free of charge.

During Tanjiro's Final Selection, the host reveals that Wisteria is a flower which is hated by Demons and is consciously avoided by them. During the Final Selection, Wisteria is used to keep the Demons trapped on Fujikasane Mountain, hence the name "Fujikasane," which transates to "covered in wisteria".

Following the Final Selection, Wisteria is used to engrave the ranks of the corps members on the back of their hands. Wisteria can be used to create poisons which can paralyze regular Demons and immobilize Lower Ranks of the Twelve Kizuki. In high enough concentrations, as used by Shinobu Kocho, these poisons are shown to be capable of dissolving almost any demon, negating their regeneration powers.
Breathing Styles are fighting styles practiced and taught by members of the Demon Slayer Corps. Breathing Styles are fighting styles that makes use of an esoteric breathing technique known as Total Concentration Breathing practiced and taught by members of the Demon Slayer Corps and are used in combat by Demon Slayers. All known Breathing Style currently taught within the Demon Slayer Corps are derived from one, the first one ever created. The majority of known Breathing Styles mimic a certain element of nature (i.e. flame, water and wind) and replicates it with the user's movements, techniques and abilities. The weapon attacks of Demon Slayers who use Breathing Styles are also longer ranged, possibly due to shockwaves or air pressure generated from their weapon itself when swinging and striking.

New Breathing Styles are always being created to suit a Demon Slayer's combat needs, which results in new weapons being utilized in demon hunting (i.e. flails and whips). Such Breathing Styles embody a bigger variety of concepts, like animals, plants and emotions (i.e. serpents, flowers and love). When utilizing a Breathing Style, users automatically visualize themselves manipulating the subject behind their style, making it seem as if they were using magic, though those that are less apt and proficient in their style will visualize less than one who is.

As the different Breathing Styles were created by swordmen combining what they knew with their own sword skills to display their maximum power, it is possible to mix different Breathing Styles if the user cannot master one particular Breath alone in order to use the stronger aspects of different Styles to compensate. Tanjiro, realising that he could not master Water Breathing like Giyu Tomioka nor could he handle the strain of Hinokami Kagura, showed to be able to combine the two techniques together in order to have stronger strikes than when he used Water Breathing alone and move for longer periods of time than if he used Hinokami Kagura alone. He did this to save Hinatsuru from Gyutaro.

Total Concentration Breathing
Total Concentration Breathing is an advanced and esoteric breathing technique where a user inhales the maximum amount of oxygen within a specific breath pattern to raise their physical and mental prowess to their utmost limits. The effects include a plethora of enhanced physical and mental abilities, like superhuman physical characteristics (i.e. strength, speed, stamina, durability and agility), faster thought processes, maximizing concentration and hyper-information processing. At a more advanced level, Total Concentration is also capable of clotting wounds from severe injuries and slowing down the circulation of poison in the bloodstream. Tanjiro Kamado displayed a technique called Recovery Breathing, which, by taking a brief moment to focus and steady his breath, allows him to recover from fatigue and stiff muscles that prevent his body from moving, which he uses to overcome the whiplash of using Hinokami Kagura techniques twice in a row.

Total Concentation: Constant
Total Concentration: Constant is a Total Concentration Breathing state during the morning, noon, and night, and even while asleep that advanced Demon Slayers, such as the Hashira, can constantly maintain. There is an immense difference in strength, speed, and stamina between someone who can maintain Total Concentration Breathing at all times and someone who cannot. Learning to maintain a constant state of Total Concentration Breathing requires tremendous effort, though, the skill itself is noted to be quite elementary despite the required effort.

The training process involves blowing into a special type of super durable gourd. The objective is to blow into the gourd with enough strength to make the gourd break apart. As training progresses, the gourd is replaced by larger and larger variations of the same type of gourd. The largest known gourd is about the size of a chair.
Blood Demon Arts are spells or techniques that higher-level demons can cast or are the supernatural abilities possessed by each of them. Every time a demon devours a human, the demon becomes stronger, and they can eventually develop special, magical, supernatural powers, known as Blood Demon Arts. The power bestowed by the Blood Demon Arts is different from demon to demon, and in some cases, demons are able to use more than one of them. As suggested by its name, all supernatural abilities and techniques use their wielders' blood as a medium to manifest themselves in reality.

The abilities/techniques achieved through Blood Demon Arts can vary greatly, some can be more combat-orientated than others or some more complex and difficult to decipher, making the abilities of demon-kind extremely versatile and powerful. Known examples of these various magical powers include, but are not limited to: Generation and/or manipulation of natural elements. Manipulating poisons and corrosive acids. Casting illusions. Putting others to sleep. Controlling another person's mind.

A universal weakness to Blood Demon Arts is that they are susceptible to both sunlight and Nichirin weapons, meaning that they will disintegrate or be dispelled when exposed to sunlight or cut with a Nichirin Sword, possibly attributed to the fact that each ability and technique is created from a demon's flesh and blood. Another weakness is related to the a demon's blood, where if in some situation where their body's blood gets depleted, they will be unable to use their Blood Demon Arts.
The Demon Slayer Corps is an organization that has existed since ancient times, dedicating its existence to protecting humanity from demons. There are hundreds of Demon Slayers within the organization, however they are not officially recognized by the government. In order to become a Demon Slayer, an individual must pass the Final Selection, a test used as an entrance exam to join the Demon Slayer Corps. During this selection, examinees must survive for seven days on a mountain top infested with demons without any aid from the outside world. Candidates who complete the Final Selection are issued the standard uniform, as well as being given the opportunity to choose the ore for their special sword, which is designed to eliminate Demons efficiently. The clothes Demon Slayer Corps members wear are highly durable and light-weight, water-resistant and non-flammable. The uniform cannot be easily damaged by minor Demons. Each new Demon Slayer is also assigned one of a rare species of talking bird for communication purposes. New entrees are roughly paid around $600 a week whereas Hashira are paid as much as they want.

Once a Demon Slayer has fully settled into the organization, they are classified as a member of the lowest rank. They must complete a variety of missions to ultimately climb the ranks and reach the highest Demon Slayer position. Following the Final Selection, each swordsman has their rank inscribed on their hand through a process called "Wisteria Flower Engraving." As they continue to progress as swordsman, they can check their rank by saying a password and flexing their arm to reveal their status.

All Demon Slayers including lower-ranked members have enhanced strength, speed, reflexes, stamina, durability, endurance, agility and mobility, with the Hashira, the physically strongest in the organization, having all aforementioned abilities at beyond superhuman levels. Higher-level Demon Slayers have extremely keen senses, sometimes even bordering on extrasensory perception. Some Demon Slayers have greatly innately enhanced sensory abilities, like the 5 main senses of sight, hearing, smell, touch and/or taste. They usually use this in combat or incorporate it into their Breathing Styles. Extrasensory perception, also referred to as the "sixth sense" or "ESP", is a sensory ability where one's senses are able to detect things outside the normal range of perception. Most high-level Demon Slayers, like the Hashira, have basic ESP which they have used to perceive the aura, strength and weaknesses of demons.

The Hashira
Within the Demon Slayer Corps, there is a group of elites known as the Hashira. This group consists of the most powerful combatants in the organization and often regarded as the most skilled swordsmen among all Demon Slayers, protecting them against more dangerous threats that cannot be handled by any other Demon Slayer. Therefore, their existence literally sustains the entire organization. The Hashira, in accordance with their great strength, are the most highly ranked members of the Corps, second only to the leader of the organization. In order to become eligible to join the Hashira, a Demon Slayer must either successfully kill 50 demons or a "Most Wanted" demon once they are at the highest rank. The Hashira are all assigned a specific region that they are required to patrol, usually to gather information about the demons inhabiting the said area and to improve their fighting skills. They are also deployed on missions only if members of lower ranks are unable to complete it. Each Hashira possesses a distinct and unique Breathing Style, some of which are even created by themselves. Fighters who can use the Flame Breathing and Water Breathing have become Hashira in every era, with no exceptions thus far.

The Hashira Training is a special training session conducted by the Hashira and undertaken by numerous lower-ranked Demon Slayers. The aim of Hashira Training is to improve all Demon Slayers' physical abilities and overall health, bolstering the members of the Demon Slayer Corps significantly. Each of the Hashira oversees a different part of the training program. Known training includes basic stamina training, flexibility training, quick movement training, sword skill training, pounding training, and muscle reinforcement training. Hashira Training is extremely strenuous; because of this, a majority of the Demon Slayers view the training session as an everlasting trip in hell, with a few notable exceptions who see the session as a chance to improve themselves. As a general rule, Hashira must take part in each other's training sessions. It is considered a win-win situation for both the Hashira and the Demon Slayers, as even the Hashira get to improve due to being constantly attacked by wave upon wave of juniors ranked lower than themselves.
Demons are an ancient race of monstrous, supernatural, immortal beings. Demons are a mostly carnivorous, vampiric species whose primary diet is humans, consuming their flesh and/or blood. Sunlight is deadly to them and will burn them to ash, so they strictly operate at night. Demons have an abnormally powerful physical constitution and regenerative ability which makes them immune to normal weaponry and grants them the ability to regenerate from any wound with ease, even re-growing their head. Only the Nichirin weapons, special weapons made from special ore with sunlight absorption properties, allowing then to inflict life-threatening wounds on demon kind. Of course, even with a Nichirin weapon, the only method guaranteed to kill a demon is by chopping their head off. They are also known to hate Wisteria flowers which are poisonous to them and whose smell is repudiated by them.

Practically all demons possess a murderous instinct to kill and devour humans, and have lost most of their memories from their human life. While they do still retain their original personality, most times it becomes a darker version of what it used to be. However, there are a few demons who have completely retained their human emotions and memories, such as Nezuko Kamado, Tamayo and Yushiro. Certain members of the Twelve Kizuki also retain their human memories such as Rui (though he eventually lost his memories later on). All demons do regain their memories moments before they die, which possibly means that demons also have their lives flash before their eyes before they perish.

The demon species is also known to mutate and grow stronger over time as they consume more humans, allowing them to grow into more monstrous forms and improve their physical and regenerative abilities among other attributes. Once demons consume enough humans, they can develop Blood Demon Arts, an array of supernatural powers and techniques which are unique to each demon. Different human blood types have different levels of nutrition for demons: the rarer the blood type, the greater the nutrition. The rarest blood type is known as Marechi; eating a single human with this blood type provides a demon with roughly the same nutrition as eating one hundred ordinary humans.

Both Tamayo and Nezuko are also shown to be exceptions to this rule, the former is shown to have become a relatively powerful demon despite surgically modifying her body to require minimum blood consumption (typically in the form of blood donations). The latter, who never took a human life, gathers most of her strength through extensive sleep and was able to develop her own powers and grew stronger over time.

Muzan's own blood is also shown to have special properties that can strengthen a demon, proportional to the amount of blood infused. The blood, however, is dangerously toxic in higher concentrations and can force a mutation in the recipient's body far beyond what they can withstand, causing death. However, if they do endure the process which is shown to be more excruciating the higher the dose is, their strength will grow tremendously. Conversely, Muzan is also shown to be able to nullify a demon's immortality and regenerative ability, being able to devour and kill them if he so desires. The Demon Slayers are the central adversary to the demon race as they are an organization trained to destroy them through a multitude of well refined techniques and tools developed across centuries to exterminate them. As a result, demons tend to live in secrecy with the population at large being ignorant to their existence. Even more, some demons blend into human society as a way to hide from persecutors and also to have a much easier access to prey.

Appearance & Behavior
Demons come in a variety of forms. Most are humanoid in appearance, only with slight alterations to their physiology, including but not limited to: paler skin, fangs, pointed nails, catlike eyes with unusually-colored sclera, dark markings that come in various patterns across their bodies, and/or a change in hair color. The changes differ from demon to demon, as some demons can still retain their normal appearance while others gain distorted features like multiple heads, mouths, or limbs. There are also cases where demons possess bizarre monstrous physiologies more akin to beasts than humans.

Demons for the most part work in solitude not bothering to group up and are in fact shown to be highly territorial and fight over both prey and potential hunting grounds, the sole exception is the Spider Family, a group of demons forced to work together by their leader Rui, in what was a hostile environment. Nonetheless, demons are all for the most part connected to their progenitor, in their case Muzan Kibutsuji, who through an array of curses is able to read their minds, witness what they see, discern their location, and even destroy them remotely, operating akin to a hive-mind. All demons pledge obedience to their creator, who uses fear and manipulation to maintain loyalty. However, the master's control over their progeny is not omnipotent. An individual with a strong will might be able to sever their connection with their creator, rendering them immune to the curses and making them mostly undetectable. The only demons known to do this are Tamayo and Nezuko.

As demons are not born naturally, most members of the race reproduce by converting a human through exposure to the blood of a very strong demon; only Muzan so far has been shown to possess this ability. People resistant to demon blood exist, though they are very rare. It should be noted that their creation is not a mystical process, but a biological one achieved through substances, suggesting that demon blood has mutagenic properties. As evidenced by Muzan pouring blood into a civilian, the process is performed at a cellular level, where if the mutation is too drastic, the victim's cells unable to withstand the change will be destroyed leaving only ash behind.

Abilities
Accelerated Growth Rate: Demons grow at superhumanly fast rates, dependent on the number of humans they have consumed and the amount of their creator's blood they have assimilated. This allows even the weakest humans, like Rui when he was a human (due to his naturally weak physique), to become one of the most powerful beings in existence in mere months. As a result, demons are able to reach further heights that are impossible to attain when human as long as they keep assimilating their creator's blood and consuming humans. Some demons, however, have a limit to how much they can use to grow stronger, and they might be not compatible with a higher amount of their creator's blood and die if they don't consume enough humans.

Biological Absorption: Some demons have displayed the ability to absorb biological matter into their bodies through physical contact, mainly as an alternative method for consumption. It is also implied that demons can kill other demons by absorbing them into their bodies.

Disease Immunity: Demons have an innate immunity to all types of diseases and ailments, with complex anti-demon drugs and the poison of a Wisteria flower being the only exception, the former being able to effectively weaken demons and the latter able to kill demons if they receive even milligrams of the substance.

Enhanced Senses: Due to their predatory nature, demons possess sharper sensory abilities. Most notably, demons can discern normal blood from Marechi blood. A low level demon like Slasher was able to track the smell of bento back to its source. As noted by Muzan, demons are able to distinguish things humans hardly understand, such as blood type, sickness, and genes.

Flesh Manipulation: All demons have the shared ability which allow them to control and alter their own body's flesh to a certain extent, such as growing limbs, creating identical clones of themselves, and detaching body parts and remotely controlling them. Weaker demons, like the Temple Demon, are capable of completely creating a pair of arms on the bottom of their head while members of the Twelve Kizuki possess flesh alteration abilities so advanced they can flawlessly generate fully-functioning weapons or clothing out of their flesh, to the point that they are indistinguishable from their normal counterparts. Lower Rank One, Enmu's flesh altering ability is so advanced that he could merge his entire body with a train, turning the locomotive into his flesh, blood and bones.

Immortality: Demons don't age, possessing eternal life that allow them to life for centuries without showing the slightest sign of deterioration or aging. They are unable to be killed by conventional means, like suffering excessive injuries, but can be killed by sunlight, through decapitation by Nichirin weapons, Wisteria poison or if their creator wills it.

Inhuman Physical Capabilities: Even the weakest of demons possess inhuman strength, speed and endurance, being able to outmatch the average person in all physical categories effortlessly. For example, the Temple Demon and Swamp Demon can outmatch Tanjiro Kamado in terms of speed, moving faster than he can perceive or react. Even the weakest members of the Twelve Kizuki, like Rui, can cause Tanjiro to cough up blood with casual punches and kicks, while Lower Rank demons with no combat background, namely Enmu, can evade Tanjiro's attacks and techniques without much effort. A demon's physical abilities are implied to be directly tied to the amount of their creator's blood they have assimilated and how many humans they have consumed.

Menacing Aura: Demons have a naturally menacing presence and aura that evokes fear, with stronger demons having a more intense aura. The aura of Lower Rank demons like Rui can make the air feel heavy and thick with a mere gaze, while Upper Rank demons can possess auras that induce fear into their opponents - even making them lose the will to fight.

Regeneration: Demons have incredible regenerative abilities far superior than any living being or human due to the properties of demonic blood, able to heal any sort of physical injury in mere seconds, including deep cuts, organs, chunks of flesh, entire limbs or even their head and entire body. Stronger demons can heal more serious injuries faster and more precisely than weaker demons. For example, the average demon would take a dozen seconds to regrow an entire arm, while the likes of the Upper Ranks can repair it in the same second it was sliced off, faster than even most skilled Demon Slayers can react to, making it seem like it happened instantaneously. The fastest and most impressive regeneration feats belong to the king demons - who can heal any injury so swiftly that it makes it seem like attacks simply phase through them.

Shapeshifting: All demons have a shared ability and attribute of shapeshifting through the precise manipulation their body. For weaker demons, shapeshifting is automatic and usually random. For example, humans that recently became demons could have horns, sharp nails, fangs or extra limbs that are granted through demonization. Demons that possess more of their creator's blood would be able to control their own shapeshifting more precisely, enabling them to change their appearance at will - some even being able to change their appearance and aura flawlessly, fooling even the likes of the Lower Ranks.

Supernatural Blood: All demons have supernatural and special blood that originate entirely from their creator. It is the main source of all their abilities, characteristics, attributes and capabilities, thus being the most important aspect of demons. The higher the concentration of that blood a demon possesses, the overall stronger they are. Once demons grow strong enough, they develop supernatural abilities unique to themselves known as Blood Demon Arts, magic that uses a demon's blood as a medium.

Unlimited Stamina & Endurance: All demons have a shared physical trait of endless and limitless stamina and vitality, simply being unable to accumulate fatigue or get tired no matter how hard they try to exert themselves. Demons can also endure pain and discomfort much better than humans and even the likes of Hashira, taking on onslaught of attacks as if they were nothing, such that a severed arm or slashed neck wouldn't even bother them. It is also revealed that demons don't need to sleep. Giyu Tomioka has stated that demons don't feel pain or exhaustion.

Weaknesses
Sunlight: The greatest threat to nearly all demons is sunlight, which ignites their cells, severely limits their regeneration, and fatally burns them to ashes. Nichirin Weapons: Nichirin weapons are made out of Scarlet Crimson Iron Sand and Scarlet Crimson Ore, which absorbed sunlight to such an extent that a decapitation strike with such a weapon can instantly kill a demon. Wisteria Flowers: The Wisteria flower is poisonous to demons, and releases a scent that can repel demons. Wisteria flowers can be used to create deadly and highly potent poison mixtures to easily kill demons in small amounts.

Curse of the Creator: Every demon created with a stronger demon's blood is also inflicted with a deadly curse which activates if they try to divulge any information about their master, most commonly by saying his name in the presence of Demon Slayers. Demons like Tamayo and Nezuko, however, have freed themselves from the curse.
The Pinkerton Alliance. A moving force in American history and politics, the Pinktertons are a family whose lineage stretches far and runs deep. While sharing the same blood, you can still find division and disagreement between Pinkertons, but they always maintain an unspoken alliance as they all generally share the same goal of the preservation a relatively stable, growing, human race. Though a wing of them now function as a private security guard and detective agency, there are Pinkertons, not so official, who operate in the more shadier side of things. While not initially forces of justice who were created to aid in the fight against demons, they could not ignore the carnage these left and were soon commissioned by America's forming Union to do so. For the ultimate goal of the Pinkertons throughout the ages has been to uphold human society in its many forms, this "United States America" was just another, albeit quite interesting iteration.

Being connected to one of the few founding families still left in the world, it's enough to say that the Pinkertons are well-supplied and well-connected. From people in government, sports, marketing, and academia, the Pinkertons usually have a hand in all the "big" things one would see occur and the means to do so. However, for the wing that covers demon-hunting, there is a fine-line they must walk. Their mandate is to work in silence. While the American government supplies them with protection should things get out of hand, the Pinkertons and demons for all intents and purposes don't actually "exist". Normal individuals nor law enforcement know about and any mention of what they do is just hearsay.

Although the Pinkertons were mandated to fight the hordes of demons, few from the family actually become Demon Slayers themselves. In general, they think themselves too precious to be lost in a battle against vicious monsters so feel it's enough to merely supply those brave enough with the tools and information they need to do so. From eagles that communicate missions & targets of priority to the mercenaries they employ, they've also created a network of estates where Slayers can gather to rest and replenish themselves. In addition, they also co-ordinate the efforts of the country's best smiths to create weapons for the people who choose to fight the demons, whether it's for glory, honor, or revenge. This they feel is how it should be. Like the Illuminati, Rothschilds and other "hidden" organizations around the world at that time they fared better staying in the shadows, weaving things and coordinating plans while their "hands" that carried them out got all the glory.

The Pinkertons are the main force countering demons in North America, but are aware of other families across the globe doing the same work in their own lands, namely Japan. It is a representative from Japan in fact, that first solidified the idea demons existed in the mind of the Pinkerton in charge at the time. Bringing her on a hunt for a nuisance that was apparently mutilating livestock, Maria Pinkerton saw the beheading of a low-class demon first-hand. Information was soon exchanged and the Pinkertons became familiar with things such as Wisteria, Hashira, Kakushi, Breathing and the weapons needed to combat the immortal terrors. Though there are a few changes instituted by the Pinkertons, the major change was how they approached training their hires for the role. While in the East, they are focused on maximizing yourself through a balance of the mind, body, and spirit, in the West, the focus is on science and drugs to reach one's maximum potential. Instead of meditation and harsh training Demon Slayers in North America normally use pills and workout regimens to gain the edge in battle. While this leads them to be stronger than their foreign counterparts, it can also cost them. Slayers have been known to overdose on drugs, become strung out and otherwise shells of themselves because of what they've taken, especially if abused for the sake of winning a battle. North American Demon Slayers long in their careers, frequently retire from the stress chemicals wreak on their system when taken to force their bodies to become more than they are.

However, even with all that risks associated with the chemicals ingested to become on par with demons, most slayers wouldn't have it any other way. A lot in their rank have nothing to live for or are otherwise fine with the prospect of fighting demonic monsters. The pay is nice the higher up you go, the friends you make are for life, the medical care is top notch, you are doing a major good for society, and the experience of feeling like a god when enhanced is second-to-none. Though it may sound like a nightmare to some, many Slayers appreciate the lengths the Pinkertons go to to make sure they are cared for and have their best fight.
The Marechi in Demon Slayer refers to the rare and special blood that some humans possess. The blood has a very strong effect on demons that can cause them to go into a frenzy, disrupt their senses, and sometimes even make them go insane. The Marechi blood is so powerful that some demons hunt humans non-stop just to get their hands on some of it. It is said that a drop of a Marechi blood is equivalent to the blood of one hundred humans. However, only a handful of people have Marechi blood, and it is unknown whether it is inherited or acquired. The only thing people know about the Marechi blood is that it is exceedingly rare and has an intoxicating effect on demons.

Because of this, while the Marechi blood is known to demons and some demon slayers, with only a handful possessing the blood, their identities are often kept secret to prevent demons from hunting them down.

White Masquerade · Aug 29, 2023

Story Summary

In the midst of a dream, Catawnee revisits a distressing memory of her husband's transformation into a demon and her desperate struggle against his monstrous intentions. Awakening with a jolt, she confronts the unsettling reality that demons and demon slayers exist. Her spouse, Leto, has become one of these fiends, leaving her torn between saving him or ending his demonic existence. With the hope of restoring demons to humanity distant, Catawnee embraces the duty of hunting them. Memories of her past life haunt her dreams, and she pledges to confront Leto herself if necessary. Catawnee's reflection is interrupted by the arrival of a messenger eagle, bearing news of a new directive to head to the Eastern Pinkerton Estate. Wondering if a new Hashira might be crowned, she prepares to undertake the arduous journey. Aware of lurking dangers and brigands, she plans to take an unconventional route to reach her destination.

A solitary patron's glass crashes against the bar in an echoing thunk, demanding another drink. The barman obliges, concerned by the customer's excessive volume. Amidst the clamor, the deafening cries of an eagle outside persist, but Perry, immersed in his drink, dismisses it. The avian cacophony fuels anger among two men, suggesting shooting it down. Perry, his bluff called by the eagle's persistence, emerges from the bar and captures the bird, quelling the altercation. Taking the eagle to an alley, Perry questions its purpose in disturbing him. The bird delivers a note, and Perry, unimpressed, crumples it. Unfazed, the eagle avoids his gaze. Perry, unfurling the note, is irritated by its contents and sets off for the train station, leaving behind the bird behind.

A shooting range reverberates with gunshots and shattered pots as Rus practices his marksmanship. An older man approaches, gold teeth glinting in his smile, offering Rus a well-paying job guarding his manor. Rus remains stoic, focusing on his shots. The old man becomes frustrated and leaves. As Rus takes another shot, an irritating honking disturbs his concentration. A peculiar mallard duck lands on his rifle, carrying a letter. Rus reads it and dismisses it as a Pinkerton summons, tossing the letter away. The duck, wearing a ribbon, seems intrigued. Reflecting on his inactivity, Rus decides to comply and heads toward a nearby carriage to reach East Pinkerton, his destination not far off.

As the Arkansas dawn broke through the trees, Tony Rogers, a Demon Slayer, sheathed his Nichirin blade, ending a night of battle. Feeling the sun and wind, he embarked northward. His crow heralded his presence, but a bald eagle dropped a significant letter. Tony sensed urgency as he read aloud, raising questions. The crow and eagle departed, hinting at the broad reach of the message. Contemplating his options, Tony felt his duty as a Slayer called him to the east, toward a responsibility he was sworn to fulfill. Yet, he remained resolute, accelerating north to aid an endangered town. Swinging onto a rocky path, he surged through the mountains, determined to vanquish demons for another night, deferring his eastward path until safety was ensured.
Grand Lobby
Wayra Catawnee arrives at a Demon Slayer headquarters in response to a letter. Fellow Kakushi acknowledge her arrival. She reflects on the grandeur of the estate, designed to stand out as a symbol of human determination against demons. As she navigates the surroundings, she collides with a slayer bearing a resemblance to the one who failed to save her husband. Wayra wrestles with her emotions, reminding herself of her purpose as a slayer. She observes a powerful slayer with a unique gray Nichirin weapon, feeling the weight of her own role in the company of such potent warriors. Wayra enters the mansion as the morning session approaches. In her fatigued state, she briefly imagines her Nichirin bow glowing purple but dispels her unease. With doubts dismissed, she joins other slayers within the Grand Lobby, reassuring herself that the presence of demons is unlikely in such a fortified space.

A week after receiving an emergency letter, Demon Slayer Tony dashes from a town he saved to the Estate. At 9:56 AM, he races through the woods, hoping he's not lost. A compass guides him toward a clearing with stables where he befriends animals. In the moment, he interacts with a horse, then realizes he must hurry. He sprints toward the Grand Mansion, passing fellow Slayers and greeting them warmly. The mansion's grandeur and the multitude of Slayers don't surprise him. Excited to mingle, he exchanges greetings with numerous Slayers. His attention is captured by a well-trained wolf, and he crouches to greet it. Looking up, he spots Boreas' master, a silver-haired Slayer, in the bustling mansion interior.

Colt, a cheerful young man, refreshes himself by drinking from a lake and enjoying the sun. He can taste potential contaminants due to his unique sensory ability. His companion, a brown mare named Sugar, drinks alongside him. They often travel on missions for the Pinkertons, taking only brief rests in towns. Colt notices a Pinkerton messenger eagle, signaling another task. He receives a note requesting his presence at the eastern Pinkerton estate. The absence of a specific mission description surprises him, hinting at something significant. He playfully speculates on the nature of the summons and hopes it's not bad news. Colt's attention returns to Sugar as he shares the news, playfully teasing her. Her response motivates him, and he affectionately acknowledges her enthusiasm.

Reluctantly arriving at the grounds, Perry considers napping by the lakeside before an important event. Intrigued by the cryptic message, he attends the gathering. While contemplating, he accidentally bumps into a native woman, noting her unique bow. He's surprised by her presence among the demon slayers, as racial biases usually diminish with such experiences. Inside, Perry observes other slayers carrying anachronistic weapons, even a woman with a hunting hound. He contemplates striking up a meaningful conversation, reflecting on his past interactions with revenge-driven slayers and overconfident individuals. Despite his reservations about the gathering, Perry remains curious about the diverse group of demon slayers assembled.

Roger Pinkerton, head of the Pinkerton's Demon-Slaying alliance, stands before a crowd in the Grand Mansion, a Pinkerton headquarters, delivering a speech. The mansion is a symbol of their fight against demons and a tribute to Juliana Pinkerton, the first Flame Hashira. Roger reflects on his role and the legacy of his late brother. He introduces himself and his achievements as a leader, acknowledging the failures of his brother. He reveals capturing the Eastern King, a powerful demon responsible for countless deaths. The announcement elicits mixed reactions from the crowd. Roger emphasizes unity and determination, expressing hope for victory. He plans to change the tide of the war and emphasizes the collective effort. He then surprises a slayer, Hilda Von Rowenburg, with the recommendation to become the Wolf Hashira. Amidst the event, a servant relays a message to Tony Rogers, inviting him to the burial grounds near Wisteria Lake to meet a Hashira. Tony's mood shifts when he recalls painful memories associated with Dolton Ray, but he composes himself. He expresses his vote of confidence in Hilda, then quietly leaves the meeting.

Hilda Von Rowenburg, accompanied by her wolf Boreas, arrives at the Grand Mansion. As she navigates the crowds of slayers, she encounters a curious young man who approaches her and her wolf. The meeting begins, led by Roger Pinkerton, head of the Pinkerton Alliance. He announces the capture of the Eastern King demon and Hilda's nomination as a Hashira. Amidst the celebration, Hilda reflects on the significance of this step towards ending the war. As the attention turns to her, she stands tall and confidently accepts the nomination, stating that her actions speak louder than words. Her wolf howls in the background.

Perry listens to Roger Pinkerton's speech with a sense of disinterest, particularly when Roger criticizes his own brother. Despite this, he finds merit in the announcement of the capture of a major demon. Unexpectedly, he is personally summoned by Roger to the Regional Director's Office, though he is hesitant to draw attention to himself. Perry decides to remain through the rest of the speech, which includes the recognition of a potential Hashira candidate. After the distraction, he discreetly slips away and is guided to a door by a Kakushi.

Wayra, intrigued by the events at the Grand Mansion, witnesses the announcement of the captured Eastern King and the potential Hashira candidate, Hilda Von Rowenburg. She contemplates the necessity of gaining strength to protect herself and her husband, Leto, realizing her current abilities are inadequate. Wayra considers the legendary academy, Pertmore, a place where Demon Slayers can become immensely powerful. She recalls meeting a man with a grey Nichirin, the same man she encounters now. Wayra proposes they train together after the Hashira vote, noting Leto's recommendation of Pertmore, and expresses curiosity about the grey Nichirin sword's capabilities. She introduces herself as Wayra Catawnee and extends her hand, suggesting they join forces to become stronger.

Rus, lost in thought during Roger Pinkerton's speech, struggles to engage due to his disinterest and wandering mind. A fellow slayer nudges him, expressing annoyance at his apparent rudeness. As the meeting continues, Rus finally grasps the importance of Purgatory, feeling skeptical about containing powerful demons. He spots Wayra and exchanges a subtle connection with her. Her words evoke a manic smile from him, and he agrees to her request to train together at Pertmore, despite his reluctance. Rus dismisses the voting part and decides to leave, assuming Wayra will follow as they head towards Pertmore.

In the meeting hall, Roger, the commander, reflects on Hashira candidates. He's impressed by Hilda's determination, comparing her to another skilled slayer, Juliana. Roger's role involves assessing potential Hashira, and he learned Hilda's history, part of the wealthy Rowenburg family with a tragic past. She survived a demon attack that killed children, leaving her scarred. Hilda, now grown, faces a vote for becoming the first Wolf Hashira. Roger addresses the assembly, announcing the vote. He's confident that more Hashira would strengthen their ranks, essential for a significant operation. Amidst his contemplation, a Kakushi offers a light for his cigarette. Over 500 slayers gather; Roger reveals the vote results, making Hilda the potential Wolf Hashira. Applause ensues. Roger encourages Hilda, acknowledging her father's pride. He entrusts her journey to becoming Hashira, with an extra task at New Genetics Hospital.

As the applause for the newly appointed Hashira, Hilda, fills the room, Colt joins in, despite not having met her before. He acknowledges that his knowledge of her comes from others' accounts of her skills, beauty, and her canine companion. Colt enjoys engaging in conversations with fellow Slayers over drinks and meals, gaining insights into their training and skills. However, his remarkable blood, which attracts demons, restricts his interactions with people. He values socializing with Slayers as a way to feel less like a hazard. Though he didn't choose to join the Pinkertons, being there offers him a sense of belonging. He advises taking moments of ease in the short, dangerous life they lead. While not overly invested in the war, he hopes for peace and misses his time working in a kitchen back home. Colt scans the crowd, hoping to find familiar faces to enjoy the celebration with and perhaps make new friends.

Amidst a crowd of novices, a young man observes the proceedings with his arms bound. He smirks at the concept of "democracy at work" and watches the newly confirmed Hashira, Hilda Von Rowenburg. Despite his lack of experience as a demonslayer, he senses her unique strength. He reflects on her name, indicating Germanic nobility, and ponders her potential connections. The man was caught by a Pinkerton and coerced into service against demons. He contemplates his amber nichirin sword and listens as the Pinkerton speaks about upcoming events involving the Eastern King. He acknowledges his own priorities: he's willing to align with Hilda to ensure his survival, even hoping to charm her. Lawrence, the young man, views Hilda as a suitable ally and host for his parasitic personality.

Hilda salutes the audience and responds to congratulatory gestures. As she heads to New Genetics Hospital, she senses a strange gaze from a cuffed man. Boreas growls in response, but Hilda assures him they're among allies. She speculates on the purpose of her visit to the hospital, wondering if she'll be subjected to drugs. Hilda's focus is on becoming stronger, though she's wary of hospitals due to their associations with blood and death.

The aftermath of the vote is marred by a mix of feelings as demon slayers, sometime later, leave the mansion, contemplating Hilda's Hashira role and the Eastern King's capture. Suddenly, a guttural roar shatters the atmosphere. A multitude of wolves emerges, their presence unsettling. With a second more sinister howl, they surge forward, unsettlingly augmented by demonic energy. Chaos erupts as the wolves attack. Amid the chaos, a female demon with golden eyes avoids attention and slips past Colt Curtis. Her gaze promises death because of his "Marechi blood." Lawrence, the enigmatic wanderer, navigates through the turmoil while a colossal wolf targets him. Outside, Roger gets injured, and the demon slayers rally to counter the wolf onslaught. The estate becomes a battleground, thick with tension and battle. The scene ends with Colt facing a choice: where to stand, whom to save, and the narrative he'll contribute to the unfolding events. Ignoring all else, he races outside the lobby and chooses to protect Roger, the Demon Corps' current Leader. Saving Roger and the Kakushi, he is thanked by the servant as the pair stride away towards the hospital. However, as the pair move away, one of them goes limp and it's revealed to be Roger. The Kakushi makes their way back to Colt, hysterical over Roger being dead, but is inexplicably shot through the head and killed themselves. This is when another demon slayer named Bobby Lugaud springs behind Colt and blocks a bullet hurtling toward him. Bobby saw what happened to Roger and advised Colt to take Roger to the hospital because there was still a chance for his survival. Further telling Colt to be careful, Bobby moves away from the boy, to seemingly help protect other slayers from these phantom bullets. Colt quietly thanks the man and makes his way to Roger's body. Calling his trusty horse, Colt places Roger's body upon his steed, and the two speed toward the New Genetics Hospital.

As slayers from Pertmore Academy arrive and enter the Mansion grounds, within their ranks is Wayra, who subconsciously notices something familiar about these supposed phantom bullets. After thinking it through, Wayra realizes there is a sniper taking out Demon Slayers from afar. Knowing the general direction, she sets a plan in motion to find out the sniper's position. After getting their attention and drawing their fire, Wayra finds an opportunity to counteract the sniper, with her own long-ranged arrow.

Ana, a former demon slayer, observes Lawrence, a limber slayer, who is handcuffed but agilely fending off a colossal wolf. Lawrence's fight against the colossal wolf intensifies, and Ana wishes to see him unleash his full power. In a tense moment, Lawrence narrowly escapes the wolf's deadly bite but is unexpectedly killed by Ana, who wields dual red sabers and uses a deadly technique of Tornado breathing. Ana believes it's better this way and allows the colossal wolf to move away, then begins searching for Roger Pinkerton. She notices a man Roger called out to before during the voting, Perry O'Donovan, and contemplates her next move to find Roger and potentially confront the Regional Director. Deciding to confront Perry after sinking into anger over how the Corps mistreated her, Ana lunges at him but misses. Asking where Roger is, Perry refuses to answer and this annoys Ana. She tries to leave, but Perry decides to stall her and then the two begin to fight each other in earnest.

Bobby continues flitting around the grounds split on whether his group was doing the right thing opposing the Demon Slayer Corps. Yes, they didn't like the organization, but assassinating Roger and killing other Slayers was going too far. On the border of purposely letting himself get killed, he is rescued by the Hashira Didier, who questions why he is there. Knowing he was kicked out of the Corps, Bobby tries to get out of Didier's questioning anger, saying that Roger is dead. When Didier balks at this, Bobby swears it's true and lies that he saw Colt shoot Roger in the head. Bobby adds that Colt was on his way to the New Genetics hospital with Roger's body right now. Promising to punish Bobby if he is lying, Didier heads toward the New Genetics hospital to see if it is all true.

Regional Director's office
Upon entering, he offers a casual salute and questions his summons. Ms. Marvo, the Regional Director, is interrupted by Perry entering her office. Perry's B-positive blood is distinct to her, and she struggles to hide her discomfort as a reaction to his scent. She begins discussing the Dark group, suspected of killing his family, and their involvement in smuggling experimental drugs, weapons, and materials. She proposes an undercover plan to recover the stolen items, which involves Perry posing as a courier to bait the group. She emphasizes gathering information before taking action. Ms. Marvo's behavior becomes increasingly erratic as she unbuttons her shirt and speaks suggestively. She mentions an opiate pill developed at New Genetics and instructs Perry to pick it up. She locks the office door and inquires about the possibility of a relationship with a demon, implying that she herself might be a demon. She questions how far Perry would go for everything she offers.

As the director's behavior becomes more flustered, Perry watches carefully. When she locks the door, he comments on the privacy. The conversation takes an odd turn as she discusses demon mating habits, and Perry questions their ability to reproduce. He approaches, leaving a hickey on her neck, and whispers about not turning down a drink. Using his breathing style, he tests if she's a demon by observing her healing ability, preparing to defend himself if needed. The director, Ms. Marvo, experiences intense euphoria from Perry's kiss due to his B-Positive blood, which seems to be aphrodisiac-like to her. Despite the tempting sensation, her logical mind restrains her from indulging. Perry notices the hickey he left on her neck disappear as her skin regenerates, confirming her unnatural abilities. She emphasizes her human status and acknowledges his combat skills. She explains her curiosity about demons mating with humans but doesn't directly confirm her identity. She expresses hope that Perry finds those responsible for his family's tragedy, hinting at a possible future connection. A Kakushi enters and offers Perry's hand, leading him to the hospital's dispensary to pick up the pills mentioned. Perry is left to decide if he'll proceed as planned or have different intentions.
Wayra and Russel arrive at Pertmore Academy, impressed by the grandeur of the campus. Amidst intense training activities, they're drawn to a central square where Samantha Waller, the Emotions Hashira, captivates the crowd with her battles. She defeats opponents effortlessly, displaying remarkable precision and anticipation. Samantha singles out Russel from the crowd, inviting him to spar. Observing him, she perceives his emotional struggles and lack of purpose. She encourages a spar to explore his emotions further. The crowd's curiosity grows, and some speculate about his presence. Samantha requests rubber bullets for Russel's gun. The crowd awaits his response, while Wayra wonders if he'll accept the challenge, stepping out of the shadows to face a battle that may delve into the depths of his emotions.

Russel agrees and begins to battle Samantha, shooting a shot towards her. Blocking his shot, Samantha tells Russel he has to breathe and try harder to beat her. So he does. Beginning to use techniques from Cosmic Breathing, Russel excites Samantha, causing not only her but the crowd to get more invested in the battle. Using a particularly strong technique, it was the first time Samantha saw Russel smile. The move forced Samantha to finally use an ability from her Emotions Breathing and she uses it to escape. As the crowd watches her disappear, she reappears next to a heaving Russel and praises his efforts. However, she suggests they table the fight for another day as she senses a disturbance across the estate. Declaring Russel to be her apprentice or, Tsuguko, Samantha orders those present at Pertmore to investigate the disturbance while she takes Russel to the hospital.
Cell 10
A drooling demon, imprisoned and bound in Nichirin chains, is subject to the agony of experimentation. August struggles against drugged stupor, his once-impressive strength dulled. Fueled by anger towards Hashira, he voices his desire for revenge but is silenced. Monty, his loyal snake companion, offers solace, and August uses Blood Demon Arts to communicate with Monty. As August's connection with Monty strengthens, Monty's actions become purposeful. Despite the painful wisteria-lined prison, Monty obeys August's command to aid him. Their partnership has an unspoken understanding that transcends words. Monty detects a scent, revealing the presence of a woman imprisoned nearby. Monty emerges through the floor of her cell 6. The snake addresses the woman, speculating about her rebellion against the demon slayers. It proposes an alliance to escape together. Despite being a demon with a reputation for evil, the snake offers an honorable deal. It pledges to leave with everyone unharmed in exchange for freedom. The woman is offered assistance once they escape.

Kincaid and the snake emerge into cellblock 10, where August, a shackled demon, lies pale and weak. August explains that he wants out of Purgatory and offers Kincaid a deal: free him, and Kincaid will have a chance to escape. Suddenly, another figure appears, a woman with golden eyes and obsidian markings. She mocks August for begging a human for help and deems him weak and unworthy. She gives Kincaid permission to kill August and suggests killing the hospital staff too. The woman reveals her disregard for weaker demons and her belief that August would eventually die at the hands of a demon slayer. She taunts Kincaid, hinting at the potential chaos that could arise. Despite the monotony of Purgatory, this development intrigues her.

To August's question, Kincaid rejects the demon's notion that their hands tremble due to fear, clarifying that it's the urge to kill that drives their grip on the scythe. They despise the demon, considering them weak and deserving of their suffering. The golden-eyed woman's appearance doesn't deter Kincaid's focus, and they remain fixated on the demon before them. When the woman speaks of giving permission to kill the demon, Kincaid abruptly spins around and cleaves her in half, dismissing her and focusing on their intent to kill the imprisoned demon. Kincaid traps the companion demon's head underfoot and raises their scythe, revealing a desire to end the imprisoned demon's life to free them from their cursed existence. Their eyes flare with killing intent, and they declare their intent to carry out the act, driven by a deep-seated need to eradicate demons for the safety of the world. With a swift motion, Kincaid aims to decapitate the imprisoned demon.

Initially seeming grim for August, the threat from Kincaid triggers memories of his painful past, igniting a fierce determination to survive. August's past trauma and struggles are unveiled, showcasing his transformation from a victim to a demon driven by a desire for power and revenge. Augmented by the demon within, he defies his restraints, sparking a struggle between him and Kincaid. Both gaze into each other's eyes, their fierce determination reflected in their locked gazes. In a final attempt, August deploys his "Blood Demon Art: Venom Rush," spewing corrosive acid around the cell in an uncontrolled outburst of rage and desperation. Amid his frenzied state, August's madness surfaces as he threatens Kincaid with violent promises, his inner turmoil driving him to fight for his life with a manic intensity. After a struggle, August wins and is able to get away from Kincaid by escaping through the cell's walls. Trying to escape Purgatory, he is confronted by the Time Hashira and is eliminated in one strike. Coming back to Kincaid, the Hashira says she is free to leave Purgatory as humans are not his concern. He then makes his way toward the bottom level of Purgatory, sensing a human lurking within the floors.

Cell 6
Trapped in a time-distorted prison, Kincaid reflects on their captivity's disorienting effect on time perception, devised as torture for eternal demons. The Pinkertons' creation is a stifling, eternal torment that has blurred Kincaid's sense of time, potentially driving them mad. Wondering why they share this prison with the very demons they hunted, they ponder if they're seen as monsters too. Retaining their scythe and hat, Kincaid prepares to sleep, only to be interrupted by a snake emerging from a hole. Despite initial hostility, they engage in conversation with the serpent. Weighing the serpent's words about escaping and their vow to eliminate demons, Kincaid reluctantly agrees to be led to the serpent's master, concealing their true intentions to ensure the demon's demise.
Demon Slayer Burial Grounds
Later, Tony finds the designated meeting spot and cautiously approaches the Hashira, suspecting that they know more about him than he anticipated. Finally arriving, Didier confronts Tony about sparing a demon named Suzan, questioning his commitment to duty and demanding a justification for being acknowledged as a demon slayer and Dolton's pupil. Tony is initially taken aback at Didier's one-sided questioning but respectfully listens to all he has to say. He eventually explains why he spared a demon named Suzan due to their strong bond as childhood survivors of a demon attack and expresses his internal conflict about eradicating demons who were once human. Tony leaves the decision of acknowledging him as a Demon Slayer and his worth up to Didier, concluding with a question if there's anything else to discuss. Seeing Tony in a better light, but not understanding where his indifference towards Dolton Ray came from, Didier is about to ask, but it is cut short by a howl he surmises came from the direction of the New Genetics Hospital. Getting a sinking feeling in his stomach, he heads back towards the middle of the Estate and advises Tony to follow. Tony follows and deduces that it must have been Hilda causing the uproar with the wolves. So breaking away from Didier, he heads toward the New Genetics Hospital.

Meditation Grove
Nuna Wright, another demon slayer kicked out of the Corps, is shown to be sniping slayers on the Grand Manion's grounds from afar. It is revealed that she's the one who shot Roger and is part of a crew aiming to reform the Demon Slayer Corps. Angry with how they handled certain issues, their group's mission was to infiltrate the Estate during this meeting and assassinate Roger. She notices Colt trying to save Roger and moves to shoot him in the head, but is distracted by a volley of arrows landing right by her. Looking through her scope to see where they came from, Nuna surmises they came from Wayra, who she now tries to kill with her bullets. Ultimately failing, Nuna's rifle scope is destroyed and she decides to retreat from the Estate grounds.
Hilda enters the hospital, conveying her purpose to a Kakushi while masking her discomfort.

Soon Ms. Hilda Von Rowenburg awakens disoriented and restrained in an unfamiliar room. Her wolf companion, Boreas, growls protectively, and Kakushi and nurses hover nearby. A nurse observes that Hilda's vitals are steady as she's fallen under the influence of a drug administered for the Hashira exam. The scene shifts to Hilda's inner thoughts and a nightmarish sequence in an empty city, where she's taunted by ghostly children and faces disturbing visions from her past. Suddenly someone else walks from the dark corners of her reverie, revealed to be a mature Hilda with a red Nichirin axe while Hilda begins to convulse in her hospital bed. The newcomer claims to be Hilda and intends to kill the "demon" version of her.

Confusion envelops Hilda as she questions her circumstances. Strapped to a bed, she battles her inner demons, grappling with self-doubt and failure. She debates the possibility of being a demon due to her past regrets and the tormenting apparitions of the children she couldn't save. The appearance of a mature version of herself introduces uncertainty, but Hilda refuses to believe it. Determined to escape this psychological battle, she invokes her breathing techniques, emitting a powerful howl that resonates with her Wolf Breathing training. The sound triggers distant responses, suggesting support from her wolf companions. Hilda examines the apparition, seeking clues to its nature, and vows to fight for her survival. Her resilience and determination to face demons remain unwavering, as in the real world, she begins breaking free from her restraints as she prepares for the confrontation in her mind.

In the real world, one kakushi on guard wakes up from being knocked out by Hilda's roar. They realize their fellow Kakushi and the nurse are unconscious due to Hilda's roar as well. The nurse mutters about Hilda's condition being a "Sleepfighting" episode, which alarms the Kakushi. They contemplate various options for dealing with the situation, including taking Hilda's axe or calling for help, but all seem risky. Ultimately, they decide to protect the unconscious nurse and their fellow Kakushi until Hilda wakes up. They pray for Hilda to pass her mental exam and regain control, taking a defensive stance. Meanwhile, in Hilda's dream world, she confronts her demonic double, Hildaganger, who taunts her and challenges her reliance on external forces. Hilda fights back, showing her determination to overcome her inner demons.

Inside the dream world, Hilda finally takes hold of her weapon and fights evenly with her doppelganger. Roaring again to summon more wolves, Hilda's companions hold her double down while she delivers a finishing blow. Hildaganger is cleaved in two, yet after a moment, her body suddenly becomes threaded together for seemingly one last act. Shooting out a hand to choke Hilda, Hildaganger says that one of them will die right now and it's up to Hilda to decide whom. Hildaganger tells Hilda that she needs her because when times are rough, Hilda would need someone strong to rely on to get her through that. Hilda refuses to listen and opts to rely on her friends and wolves instead. So not wanting to change herself, Hilda chooses to kill Hildaganger once and for all. Upon doing so, Hilda wakes up in reality and questions those in the room as to what happened.

In the real world, Tony appears and walks into the hospital room, hoisting up the two unconscious occupants and asking the remaining Kakushi if they needed help dealing with Hilda. As Hilda comes to, Tony is ready to answer her question. Upon seeing the state of the room, he surmises that Hilda was "sleep-fighting" and inadvertently caused all the damage she saw while being asleep during the Hashira exam. The Kakushi confirms this and gives even more detail on how Hilda almost killed them all in the room. It is then revealed by the Kakushi that Hilda failed the exam. This realization reminds the Kakushi of a letter he was supposed to give Hilda after her test, and he hands it to Tony to pass to her instead. The letter is from Hilda's father and invites her back to their residence in Lancaster after the conclusion of her exam. He has assumed she passed the Hashira exam and threw a grand celebration because of it. Inviting extended family and friends, he awaits her arrival to begin the festivities in earnest.

While Samantha waits for the nurses to finish checking on Tony's health, she thinks about whether Hilda was the one who caused all the turmoil with the wolves across the Estate grounds. Remembering her own exam and promising to talk to Hilda about things later, she makes her way back to Tony's room and notices the nurse is done with him. She walks in and talks to him about what she expects from their teacher-student relationship. Looking for him to explore the depths of many different emotions, she ignores a commotion outside. Russel though almost blowing up at the notion of needing to be taught about emotions like love, gives Samantha an ultimatum before storming out of the room. Either she focuses on teaching him how to become a slayer strong enough to kill the demon that took his brother, or they part ways here.

Finally appearing in front of the hospital, Didier catches up with Colt and notices a crowd of nurses in front of the building. They are crowded around a body and as Didier strides up to them, he sees it's the body of Roger. Horrified, the body begins moving and it seemed that Roger was still alive. As Didier knelt close, Roger stated that Colt was indeed the one who killed him and said his last order before dying was for the Demon Slaying Corps to execute Colt. Going lifeless once more, Didier mourns the deceased leader and turns around to face Colt. He prepares to kill Colt when the whole area goes dark. Colt suddenly appears in front of a demonic cat who reveals she was the one who set him up. While Bobby may have lied about Colt Killing Roger, Maraw D was the one who manipulated Roger's dead body and sealed Colt's fate. Explaining that she used her Eastern King ability "Shadow Garden" to separate them from the situation in front of the hospital, she outlines his part in her plan. She plans to isolate Colt and have him depend on her for everything. Afterward, she would train him to become the best, most famous demon slayer in the country. Once he reached that status and all demons besides her were eliminated, Maraw D would kill him and drink his "Marechi" blood. Only after that occurred, would she be satisfied in life and let someone kill her. Giving Colt the option to accept her terms or deal with a Demon Slaying Corps ordered to kill him, she changes her mind. She now gives him the option of following her plan or she'd kill everyone currently residing at the Eastern Estate.

Fandom Demon Slayer: North America (Lore) [Closing]

White Masquerade

QuirkyAngel's Red Oni

White Masquerade

QuirkyAngel's Red Oni

Users who are viewing this thread

Similar threads