Time-limited Crossover Stories (I)

Time-limited Crossover Stories (I)
Name	AttributeAttr	Stamina	Rounds	Exp
Chapter 0 Boge of Elven White Thrush	Story Chapter
Chapter 1　Pagoda of Treasure	Story Chapter
Chapter 2　Swordsmen from the Other World	Story Chapter
Chapter 3　Fight is Louder than Words	Story Chapter
Chapter 4　The Love-searching Umbrella	Story Chapter
Chapter 4　The Love-searching Umbrella - 1		10	1	1000
Chapter 5　Ink Worms of Painting	Story Chapter
Chapter 6　The Fate of A Kind Person	Story Chapter
Chapter 7　Attack of Birdcage	Story Chapter
Chapter 7　Attack of Birdcage - 1		10	1	1000

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Chapter 0 Boge of Elven White Thrush[]

Story

In the eastern forest on Continent Tarones, towering cedars were planted all over this fertile land. The magnificent scenery was even more awe-inspiring when you looked up from the ground. It was also the habitat of Elven White Thrushes.

At late night, crimson moon hung high in the dark sky, adding restlessness to the atmosphere. A shrill cry came from a royal palace in the center of the cedar forest. Boge~Stop! Father!

Boge: Stop! Father!

Father: Humph! What a coincidence...

Boge rushed to press his father’s right hand to stop him from conjuring a fireball. At the same time, he looked at the place where moonlight was casted few steps away—— There was a bed made of a large amount of tulle entangled and stretched tightly. Lying on the bed was a lady with peerless, ethereal beauty.

Boge: Are you trying to burn mother to death!?

Father: Burn her to death? Your mother was already dead! Now I'm just taking care of the rest!

Boge: Dead...No! Impossible! She’s still alive when I left.

Father: Ha, haha, hahahaha! Look at her face. Is that what you called “alive”? Since she was in a coma after serious injuries, she hasn’t opened her eyes for years.

Father: If it wasn’t you who kept feeding her some fine medicine, she would’ve been long gone. Her death is inevitable!

Ignoring his father, Boge rushed past him to his mother. He took a close look at the ethereal beauty with a hint of death. Holding his mother's cold right hand, Boge knelt on the ground blankly as if he was emptied of soul. He could not even shed his tears.

Father: Get out of my way! I need to burn her!

Boge: No...no...why are you being so merciless…

Father: Merciless? Hilarious! If it wasn’t you who told her that I wanted to kill Jiwu, she wouldn’t have been badly injured for saving him! This is all your fault!

Boge: I...I just…

Father: What? Got nothing to say already? Tut! Useless! And look at how poor she is, trapped by me she doesn’t love. And I even killed her loved one. How unfortunate.

Boge: No, she still has me and Jiwu…

Father: Jiwu...right. It’s because he’s the son of her loved one. What are you? Don’t be naive.

Father: You’re the unwanted son to her! She hates me, and you. Every time you called her mother, it was just a pain in her ears. Your existence only reminds her of how tragic her life is——

Father: Ah!

Abrupt pain had cut off his father's wicked words. Boge, who was driven to desperation by his father, finally could not help but pulled out a dagger to stab his father.

Drip-drop...The blood slid down from the blade to the ground and made a faint sound, but it was covered by the heavy breathing of Boge.

Boge: Huff...

Boge: “Mother...doesn’t love me...I shouldn’t have been born in this world…”

Boge loosened his grip of the dagger and looked down at his father who was lying on the ground. Although it was not lethal, the wound was enough to keep his mouth shut. Watching his father creeping, Boge’s handsome face was mixed with emotions—— Hatred, disgust, sadness, anger... and eventually all were expressed with a desperate smile.

Boge: Father, you should be glad right? Your weak, incompetent eldest son is now able to defy you...Hahaha…

Boge laughed, but his hoarse laughter was like crying, containing endless sorrow. He stopped the howling as soon as he noticed that, turned around to kneel before her mother and held her hands like an innocent, fragile kid.

Boge: Mother, I saw Jiwu two days ago. Although he looked different, I could recognize him at one glance.

Boge: He seemed to forget everything in the past. I guess the injury back then made him lose his memories.

Boge: But never mind. As long as he meets you, he’ll remember…

Boge: It doesn't matter how you see me or think about me. I’m going to save you at all costs.

Boge: I heard that there’s a treasure which can bring people back to life in the Pagoda of Treasure in the Heavenly Kingdom.

Boge: I’m able to save you as long as I have it, although conditions are required to activate it…

When Boge thought of the conditions, he could not help but smiled, as if they were all insignificant to him.

Boge: But it’s worth it as long as you can be saved.

Boge: “Then you two can be happy together, mother, Jiwu…”

Chapter 1　Pagoda of Treasure[]

Story

Li Tieguai: Ah...No...NOO!

In the red-bricked courtyard on the west side of the Heavenly Kingdom, Li Tieguai woke up from a haunting nightmare, gasping.

Li Tieguai: “It’s been a long time since I had a nightmare...Although I can’t remember the details, how do I say it...I can somehow feel the sorrow from it, and my chest is heavy——”

???: Meow!

Li Tieguai raised his head as he heard the voice and saw a black kitten curling up on his chest, playing its little paws. Then he held it up with both hands.

Li Tieguai: So it’s you, Blacky. Didn’t I say you can’t enter the bedroom——

Blacky: Meow, meow.

Li Tieguai: “Www, so cute…”

Li Tieguai: This-this time I’ll forgive you, but not next time—

Rumbling! A thunder-like noise sounded suddenly. Worried, Li Tieguai brought Blacky out of the house. An ominous red beam descending from the sky to the east had caught his attention.

Li Tieguai: That side...is the Pagoda of Treasure! Could it be the attack of the demon lord...Anyways, as a righteous man, how can I sit by? Gotta go there and investigate.

Li Tieguai: Ohhhhh!

Li Tieguai’s fighting spirit was ignited to be even hotter than the dawning sun. Putting Blacky into his pocket, he leapt into the air. With several tosses, Li Tieguai soon reached the entrance of the Pagoda of Treasure.

However, he was not the first Xian to come. There were two figures before him, He Xian'gu in golden-lining dress, and white-haired Lü Dongbin who had a drowsy face.

Li Tieguai: Master Lü and He, you came too!

Lü Dongbin: I was woken up by her early in the morning, saying that something is wrong and asking me to come together. It's really annoying...well I mean it’s excellent!

Glared by He Xian'gu, Lü Dongbin immediately changed his mind and stopped complaining.

He Xian'gu: Humph, I thought you had any dissatisfaction with me.

Li Tieguai: Master He, what’s going on?

Li Tieguai pointed to the red beam above the pagoda and asked.

He Xian'gu: Someone broke into the pagoda.

Li Tieguai: Isn’t the pagoda enchanted by the Three Divine Xians?

He Xian'gu: Yes, but the barrier is mainly for preventing the powerful spirits in the tower from escaping, but not entering.

Lü Dongbin: ...This is bad.

He Xian'gu: I’ve pointed this out to Chiyou, but he still thinks it’s not a problem. The tower is full of traps and no one could possibly get out he said...

He Xian'gu: Forget it. It’s not the time for criticism. Our priority is to catch the trespasser.

Li Tieguai: No problem, consider it done!

Lü Dongbin: Good luck then, I’ll be waiting outside——

Lü Dongbin: AH!

He Xian'gu: YOU ARE COMING TOO!

Lü Dongbin: Alright alright. I go. Just don’t pinch my ear!

He Xian'gu let go and took the lead into the pagoda. Lü Dongbin, stroking his red ear, followed with a lifeless face while Li Tieguai was still in high spirits. They pushed open the door and stepped into a spacious hall.

There was a hundred-step mahogany staircase in the center of the hall. A plate of mechanism was set at the end, with a glittering pearl in the middle. At the moment, a young man, who was holding a woman with both hands, came before the plate. The woman in his arms had a beautiful yet pale face, as if she was dead.

When the young man was about to take the pearl——

He Xian'gu: Stop it!

Boge: ...

Li Tieguai: ...

Boge turned his face to look down at the three Xians in front of the steps, and eventually put his gaze on Li Tieguai's face, with complex emotions flowing in his eyes. Li Tieguai was unable to move for some reason. His heart was beating hard like thunder, just like he was awakened by the nightmare this morning.

Lü Dongbin: Who are you? How dare you break into the Pagoda of Treasure!

Boge: I...just want to save her life, please don't stop me.

When Boge took the pearl, an ominous crimson light burst, followed by strong power fluctuations spreading to the entire pagoda. Suddenly, a creepy and ear-piercing voice sounded from all sides, like hundreds of ghosts swarming in the night.

He Xian'gu: Tut! Now it’s a big trouble.

Li Tieguai: Huh? Why? What happened?

Lü Dongbin: Originally, the pearl is used to suppress the Xian power in the tower to prevent the spirits from triggering it, but that young man took the pearl and poured his power into it.

Lü Dongbin: I guess all the spirits in the tower are now forced to be activated.

Lü Dongbin: I’m afraid they will break through the barrier and scatter into the realm of Humans.

Li Tieguai: What! This is a great crisis to the world, but it’s gonna be fine as I’m here——

He Xian'gu: Anyways let’s take back the pearl!

He Xian'gu interrupted Li Tieguai. When she was about to move, she saw a pair of pure-white wings stretched from the back of Boge. He flapped the wings to create strong wind that all of them were unable to move forward but raised their arms to block.

Boge: ...Sorry.

Lü Dongbin: Don’t you dare to run away!

Lü Dongbin triggered his power to conjure dozens of long swords to attack Boge in the air. Aware of the hostility, Boge was charging an attack to fight back. However, when he caught a glimpse of Li Tieguai who was pouncing over to protect Lü Dongbin, he directed the strike down to the ground instead, smashing all the surroundings.

The bricks fell one after another; the three Xians rushed to avoid the objects.

Lü Dongbin: “He was obviously aiming at me. Why did he change the direction of the attack...who is he exactly…”

After a while, the falling rock finally stopped. By that time Boge was nowhere to be seen already. The three Xians were separated by a large number of huge rocks and red bricks. Therefore the three Xians had no choice but to talk loudly.

Li Tieguai: Humph, these rocks are just a piece of cake. Let me kick——

Lü Dongbin: Don’t! The blow just now has damaged the structure of the pagoda. I’m afraid it can’t hold your kick anymore.

He Xian'gu: That young man said he wanted to save her. He probably needs the silver crown at the top of the pagoda.

Lü Dongbin: But that silver crown can't...

He Xian'gu: Well, he must have mistaken the rumors. Anyways, We need to catch him as soon as possible. There are other ways to the top. See you there.

Li Tieguai: Understood! Olaolaolaola——Pagoda breaker, I’m coming for you!

So Li Tieguai, Lü Dongbin and He Xian'gu split up to the top of the pagoda...

Chapter 2　Swordsmen from the Other World[]

Story

On the lower corridor in the west of the pagoda, a dazzling light appeared while someone fell from the air.

Tanjiro Kamado: Whoa! It hurts...Em? Where am I?

Tanjiro Kamado: “Why am I here all of a sudden...Is it because of the Blood Demon Art...No, I can’t smell any demon here…”

Tanjiro Kamado: This place has a different smell from the world I belong to, to be exact...

???: Right! This world and our world are different!

Tanjiro Kamado: Yes, it’s hard to believe, but this is the only conclusion for now...

Tanjiro Kamado: Whoa! Ren-Rengoku! Why are you here?

Kyojuro Rengoku: I want to ask you too! After visiting Oyakata-sama, I was shrouded in a white light suddenly. By that time it vanished, I was here already!

Tanjiro Kamado: So did I. I was having lunch with Zenitsu and Inosuke in the meadow. Then a white light appeared out of nowhere and I fell down to this place somehow...I wonder their whereabouts too.

Kyojuro Rengoku: Hm! Probably they were dragged to this world too! And so were Kocho and Tomioka!

Tanjiro Kamado: Then we need to find them as soon as possible!

Kyojuro Rengoku: You’re right! Young Kamado! But, I have a question!

Tanjiro Kamado: Uh? What’s it?

Kyojuro Rengoku: Is this black cat yours?

Tanjiro Kamado: Huh?

Tanjiro looked at the spot Kamado pointed to. There was a black kitten sitting right beside Tanjiro’s leg.

Black Cat: Meow.

Tanjiro Kamado: Oh! Your leg is injured!

Seeing the bleeding wound on the black cat's forefoot, Tanjiro quickly took out healing medicine to treat it for the cat, and tie it up with a white cloth strip.

Kyojuro Rengoku: Young Kamado! Nicely done! You have a pair of skillful hands!

Tanjiro Kamado: ...I’m the eldest son in my family. Just...Practice makes perfect.

Black Cat: Meow.

As if to thank Tanjiro’s treatment, the black cat stepped forward and licked his hand gently. Then Tanjiro raised a smile and picked up the black cat, but his smile soon froze because of a deadly hostility approaching.

You, bad guy!! Let go of the cat!

Although Tanjiro was aware of the threat, he was unable to draw his sword while holding the cat. The attacker came faster than expected. As the enemy’s kick was about to hit him, a crimson light was emitted to block the attack accurately.

Clash! A clash of metal sounded.

Kyojuro Rengoku: “Hm! That guy’s leg is unusually hard, just like metal!”

Tanjiro Kamado: Ren-Rengoku!

Kyojuro Rengoku: Young Kamado! Are you alright?

Tanjiro Kamado: Yes! All thanks to you!

At this moment, the attacker walked to the light and revealed his face.

Tanjiro Kamado: “Not just the leg, some parts of his body are also made of metal!”

Li Tieguai: Impressive, you can block my metal kick.

Kyojuro Rengoku: So are you! You can block my blade, unarmed!

Tanjiro Kamado: Who, who are you? Why did you attack us?

Li Tieguai: I’m Li Tieguai, the Xian of justice who fights against demons. I attacked because you hurt my mythical beast!

Tanjiro Kamado: Mythical beast?

Puzzled, Tanjiro held the black cat up after figuring out something.

Tanjiro Kamado: Are you talking about this?

Li Tieguai: Yes. It may seem to be a usual cat, but it’s actually the descendant of the mythical beast. 49 days later, it will be evolved into its strongest form!

Kyojuro Rengoku: That’s something! This cat is truly amazing!

Tanjiro Kamado: No, he’s just making up the story! The smell of this cat is just the same as those usual cats’. It’s absolutely not a mythical beast!

Li Tieguai: Cut to the chase. Since you hurt my mythical beast, I’ll show you no mercy!

Tanjiro Kamado: It’s a misunderstanding. We didn’t hurt it!

Li Tieguai: I won’t buy this nonsensical excuse. You can’t deceive me! Die!

Chapter 3　Fight is Louder than Words[]

Story

When Li Tieguai was about to attack again, the black cat in Tanjiro's hand broke loose and jumped down to run forward, arching its body with hostility. Its hair erected against Li Tieguai.

Blacky: Growl!

Li Tieguai: Black-Blacky...why are you growling at me...I’m your owner…

Blacky: Meow!

Li Tieguai: What? He healed your wound...And I’m the one who throws a tantrum....AHHH——!

After knowing the truth, Li Tieguai let out a cry of embarrassment. Then he ran to Tanjiro, knelt down and presented a perfect dogeza.

Li Tieguai: I’m so sorry! I can’t believe I just attacked Blacky’s savior. I’m unforgivable! I’ve let Taishang Laojun down! I don’t deserve to be a Xian!

Tanjiro Kamado: Um...it’s not a big deal actually. You don’t need to blame yourself.

Li Tieguai: No! You’re too kind to me. How can this thing be easily forgiven! I deserve a punishment. Just do whatever you want. I’ll take it all.

Kyojuro Rengoku: Really? How about a slash to make it even?

Tanjiro Kamado: No, you can’t! Rengoku, this is fatal!

Kyojuro Rengoku: Hahaha! I’m just kidding! I really appreciate your bravery to admit your own fault! Now we’re even!

Tanjiro Kamado: “...Rengoku looks serious even when joking.”

Tanjiro reached out towards Li Tieguai who was kneeling on the ground and raised a smile. Then Li Tieguai held his hand to stand up.

Tanjiro Kamado: I’m Tanjiro Kamado. You can call me Tanjiro. This is Rengoku, a very powerful person.

Li Tieguai: Boohoo, you can call me Li if you don’t mind.

Kyojuro Rengoku: Li! Can you tell me where this place is?

Li Tieguai: Eh? This is the Pagoda of Treasure.

Tanjiro Kamado: Pagoda of Treasure...I haven’t heard of it. What do we do now? We need to go back to our own world as soon as possible.

Li Tieguai: Your world...Oh! Are you dragged to this place by the spirit?

Kyojuro Rengoku: Hm! What is spirit?

Li Tieguai explained the spirits out of contron in the pagoda to Tanjiro and Kyojuro, which made Tanjiro ponder.

Tanjiro Kamado: Hmm, I guess it’s one of the out-of-control spirits dragging me and Rengoku to this place. If we find that spirit, maybe we can return to our world.

Kyojuro Rengoku: Li! Do you know what that spirit is?

Li Tieguai: Ah...sorry I don’t know…

Tanjiro Kamado: No worries. It’s not your fault.

Li Tieguai: Although I have no clue about it, my seniors may know. They’re more powerful than me.

Tanjiro Kamado: Great! Can you please lead us to them?

Li Tieguai: Sure. I’m going to meet them on the top of the pagoda. Come with me!

Kyojuro Rengoku: Good to see we have the same target! But it seems it’s not an easy task to reach the top!

High-spirited, Kyojuro drew his blade pointing to the dark corridor ahead. There were countless strange noises coming from that pitch black depth, as well as the killing intent and vicious breath lingering in the air.

Tanjiro Kamado: “What is it...The smell is different from demons, but unsettling…”

Li Tieguai: It’s the spirits which lost control!

Kyojuro Rengoku: Young Kamado! Li! Prepare to fight!

Tanjiro Kamado: Understood!

Li Tieguai: Roarrr! I won’t let them escape from the pagoda! Otherwise many innocent lives will be sacrificed!

Chapter 4　The Love-searching Umbrella[]

Story

???: NOOOOOOO———!

On the lower corridor in the east of the pagoda, an all-out cry of despair broke the silence and dispelled the unsettling atmosphere in the air.

The shriek came from a yellow-haired young man. He was cowardly clinging to another half-naked young man who wore a wild boar mask.

Zenitsu Agatsuma: Inosuke! Something just touched my shoulder! Help me!

Inosuke Hashibira: Em? I see nothing! This is the 10th time you got it wrong! You idiot!

Zenitsu Agatsuma: Boohoo...I have no choice, because I’m weak! I’ll be dying anytime so I’m afraid so I got it wrong.

Inosuke Hashibira: Tut! How annoying!

Zenitsu Agatsuma: Where is this place? Why can't we see a single person all along?

Inosuke Hashibira: Do you think I know the answer!

Earlier, Zenitsu and Inosuke, the members of Demon Slayer Corps, were having lunch with Tanjiro in the wild during the mission. Suddenly, they were shrouded in white light. By the time their eyes opened, they were already inside the Pagoda of Treasure.

In order to find the way back, they began to explore, but no one was seen along the way, which made the coward Zenitsu even more nervous.

Zenitsu Agatsuma: Wait! There’s nobody here...Am I dead already? AHHHHH! I don’t want to! I still haven’t got married and kids how can I die so early——Ouch! It hurts! Why did you hit me!

Inosuke Hashibira: Because you’re too annoying! I’m gonna cut you off!

Zenitsu Agatsuma: Boohoo! HELP ME! Tanjiro...Hm! Hold on!

Umbrella of Bloody Tears: Zenitsu, who was avoiding Inosuke's attack, stopped suddenly and looked forward. There was a girl in a snow-white kimono with a beautifully pure face.

Zenitsu Agatsuma: Someone is over there! Thank goodness! Finally! Let’s go ask her about this place!

Inosuke Hashibira: No! That person is suspicious!

Zenitsu Agatsuma: Shut up! How is such a cute girl suspicious? If you don’t go, I go!

Pushing Inosuke away, Zenitsu strode to the back of the girl with a soft smile.

Zenitsu Agatsuma: Hello, my lady, sorry to bother you. Can you tell me where this place is?

Hearing Zenitsu’s voice, the girl raised her head and grabbed his neck with both hands instantly; her face started to become twisted. The limpid eyes were filled with blood-red color and her mouth cracked an unusual curve.

Umbrella of Bloody Tears: Samuel...my love...where are you?

Zenitsu Agatsuma: AHHHHH!

Inosuke Hashibira: Tut! I already said she’s suspicious!

Inosuke drew his swords trying to save Zenitsu, but caught up in the middle by red umbrellas attacking from all sides.

Umbrella of Bloody Tears: You’re not him...Die!

Zenitsu Agatsuma: No, no——

Zenitsu passed out because of fear. The girl, however, did not show mercy, starting to tighten her grip. The skin of Zenitsu’s neck was wrinkling.

In the nick of time, a sword aura struck against Umbrella of Bloody Tears precisely, which made her let go of Zenitsu. In such a short interval, a shadow rushed over to put him on the floor.

Umbrella of Bloody Tears: Ah! Who’s it? Who took away Samuel from me! Give me back my love!

Lü Dongbin: I’m Lü Dongbin the Xian. Poor spirit, your love has long gone. May you rest in peace in the umbrella. Seal!

Umbrella of Bloody Tears: AHHHH——!

Lü Dongbin took out a fulu with a mudra. Enchanted by the Xian power, the fulu flew towards the girl in no time. A few sparks appeared, and the girl was turned into a red, paper umbrella dropping to the floor.

Inosuke Hashibira: “This guy...is strong!”

Lü Dongbin: Phew, it is clear. Now it’s time to handle this.

When he walked to the fainted Zenitsu and checked out his condition, Zenitsu sat straight all of a sudden but his head just happened to bump into Lü Dongbin’s chin.

Lü Dongbin: Ah!

Zenitsu Agatsuma: Ouch...Where is that spirit? It’s gone...Wait! Why is my forehead so painful...Am I cursed by the spirit!? NOOOOO!

Lü Dongbin: “What’s wrong with this guy? Although I was caught off guard, I’m pretty sure I can avoid it as usual...And that guy too, his action was exceptionally agile…”

Lü Dongbin: Cough! Don’t worry. You’re fine and you’re not cursed.

Zenitsu Agatsuma: ...You saved me! Boohoo——!

Lü Dongbin: Hey! Could-could you stop hugging me!?

Inosuke Hashibira: White-haired guy! Let’s have a fight! I can sense the power within you!

Zenitsu Agatsuma: Kind brother, I’m so useless! I can be dead anytime! Please, you have to protect me! Boohoo!

Zenitsu on the left was hugging Lü Dongbin and squeezing snots and tears on him while Inosuke on the right kept taunting for a fight.

Lack of sleep, Lü Dongbin’s aching head was ever more painful. He could not help but touched his forehead, grumbling in his heart.

Lü Dongbin: “Goodness...why do you do this to me?”

Chapter 4　The Love-searching Umbrella - 1[]

	10		1		1000 (100 / Stm）

All MaxCD: 6

Fire Combo Trojan & Team Damage -100%

9 Cumulative Shield EX ‧ Burn Trail - 800

Chapter 5　Ink Worms of Painting[]

Story

On the middle-level corridor in the north of the pagoda, a lady in golden-lining chinese dress was sprinting with speed. On the way, despite the attacks of many shadows, all were sealed by her Xian power.

He Xian'gu: “Without the suppression of the pearl, the spirits are losing control again. I must hurry.”

Arriving at the northern hexagon hall, He Xian'gu sped up to the ebony staircase. As soon as she stepped on the stair, her body quivered.

Spontaneously, He Xian'gu caught a glimpse of a bizarre painting hanging on the wall at the corner. Dots of purple ink were dense and close just like worms, which sent a chill through her spine.

He Xian'gu: “This is high spirit’s aura…”

The painting resonated with the aura of the spirit. Its purple ink began to shine and distort, eventually breaking loose to attack He Xian'gu. Snorting coldly, she stepped back to concentrate her power on blocking. The purple ink cracked and burst into hundreds of small insects. Seeing this, He Xian'gu's face turned pale immediately. She could only squat down and close her eyes to shout——

He Xian'gu: No! Don’t come over here! AH! Go away!

However, the insects kept on the pressure——

???: Water Breathing Sixth Form——Whirlpool.

He Xian'gu: “Hm?...The insects are gone.”

???: Oh, you’re one step faster, Tomioka…

Shinobu Kocho: Opening her eyes, He Xian'gu found that all the insects were already vanished. At the same time, a young man and lady were standing in front of her.

He Xian'gu: “I’ve never seen this kind of clothing before. And ordinary people can’t enter the pagoda easily. The only possibility must be…”

Shinobu Kocho: Madam, are you alright?

They approached. The young lady maintained her smile while the young man remained silent to turn his face away, exuding an unapproachable aura. Knowing that her embarrassment had been seen, He Xian'gu immediately stood up and greeted the two in a dignified manner.

He Xian'gu: Cough, I’m fine. Those insects were a piece of cake to me. I just had a shock back then. Anyways, thank you for helping me.

Shinobu Kocho: Not at all. If you can tell me where this place is, it’ll be great.

He Xian'gu: This is the Pagoda of Treasure in the Heavenly Kingdom...I bet you two haven’t heard of it right?

Shinobu Kocho: No, have you? Tomioka.

Giyu Tomioka: No.

He Xian'gu: ...Surely, let me guess. You two are from another dimension.

Shinobu Kocho: Another dimension?

He Xian'gu: There were travellers of other worlds in the past, just like you two. My assumption is the spirit who’s able to break the dimension of other worlds is losing control, so that’s why you’re here.

Giyu Tomioka: ...Do you know how to send us back?

He Xian'gu: I do and I will. After all, this mess is on us. I’m sorry to implicate you into this trouble.

He Xian'gu bowed to apologize in all sincerity, which had gained their liking in return. Shinobu then stepped forward to help her up gently.

Shinobu Kocho: Nobody wants this to happen.

He Xian'gu: Thank you...but can you wait for a while? The problem is that I must get the trespasser first.

Shinobu Kocho: Trespasser?

He Xian'gu explained the whole story to the two, which made them reveal a serious look.

Shinobu Kocho: It means if we don’t get the trespasser and take the pearl back to control the spirits in the pagoda, they’ll break out to put the world in danger. That’s truly a serious problem.

He Xian'gu: It’s great to have your understanding. Then pardon me for——Em? Anything else I can do for you?

When He Xian'gu was about to leave, Shinobu patted her shoulder with a deep smile.

Shinobu Kocho: Let us help. I’m sure Tomioka will be glad to do so, right?

Giyu Tomioka: ...Okay.

He Xian'gu: But I don’t want to bother you again.

Shinobu Kocho: Not at all. Instead of just waiting here, we rather make ourselves useful, and also we may find our lost fellows too.

He Xian'gu: Lost fellows? Is anyone else dragged to this world?

Shinobu Kocho: Yes. Other than Tomioka and me, there is a male named Rengoku who was shrouded in the white light. I guess he must be in the pagoda as well.

He Xian'gu: It’s great to have your help, but the spirits are deadly…

Shinobu Kocho: No worries. Tomioka and I are Hashira of Demon Slayer Corps. Em...just we’re someone capable.

He Xian'gu: “Indeed they’re exceptionally strong. The high spirit was killed by only one hit back then…”

He Xian'gu: Then...I’ll be counting on you two.

Shinobu Kocho: Oh right, I haven’t introduced myself yet. I’m Shinobu Kocho and he’s Tomioka.

He Xian'gu: I’m He Xian'gu. Nice to meet you.

Giyu Tomioka: …

Shinobu Kocho: Can you say something at least please? Or do you want to be hated by the people in this world too?

Giyu Tomioka: I’m not——

Shinobu Kocho: You’re not hated right...I know I shouldn’t have said it. Sorry.

Giyu Tomioka: ...

He Xian'gu: I see. He’s difficult to get on with. That’s a waste of his handsome face.

Shinobu Kocho: Exactly, He Xian'gu you understand.

He Xian'gu: Haha, nothing. I’m just experienced in seeing different people. Ms Shinobu is truly remarkable, a young age with this bearing.

Shinobu and He Xian'gu both raised a gorgeous smile at each other. However, the calculations and thoughts hidden in their faces had sent a chill down Giyu’s spine.

Giyu Tomioka: ...Let’s go.

Therefore, the three set out towards the top of the pagoda…

Chapter 6　The Fate of A Kind Person[]

Story

On the high-level corridor in the west of the pagoda, three figures were going forward with incredible speed and agility. In the meantime, a heavy metal ball rolled from the other end of the corridor. When they were about to clash, a green silhouette rushed forward and kicked the ball to pieces. Then he looked back as if nothing had happened, and said in a cheerful voice.

Li Tieguai: Oh, so you’re the members of Demon Slayer Corps, responsible for killing man-hunting demons...It’s such a noble mission. I’m impressed!

Kyojuro swung his blade to cut off the coming arrows from above perfectly and also put on a bright smile to answer.

Kyojuro Rengoku: You’re amazing too! Protect immortals by rooting out demons and spirits! This is the responsibility of the strong!

Tanjiro Kamado: “Li and Rengoku are outstanding! They can still chat with each other while dealing with the traps. But I can hardly catch up with their speed.”

After layers of traps, the three arrived at a circular hall connecting the three forks. The flickering of candles on the wall had added mystery into the atmosphere.

Li Tieguai: We’re close to the top. Let’s take a break.

Tanjiro Kamado: Phew...that’s great.

Scratch! Noises like sharp claw scratching came from Tanjiro’s cedar in the back, which made Li Tieguai nervous to be on his guard.

Li Tieguai: Tanjiro! The cedar in your back is moving! Could-could it be some sort of doom evil?

Tanjiro Kamado: Doom...evil? What’s it?

Li Tieguai: Ah, just, just...a very powerful creature!

Tanjiro Kamado: Sigh...I still can’t get used to the way Li talked.”

Tanjiro Kamado: No, you got it wrong. It’s my young sister. Nezuko, come.

When Tanjiro put down the cedar, a young girl who wore a kimono walked out of the cedar.

Nezuko Kamado: ...

Li Tieguai: ...

Tanjiro Kamado: What’s wrong? Li, any problem?

Li Tieguai: ...Your sister is cute!

Tanjiro Kamado: Isn’t she? It’s not my boast but my sister is a well-recognized beauty in the town!

Li Tieguai: But why is she hiding in the cedar?...Is, is she cursed…?

Tanjiro Kamado: No, she is not...Em, it’s because Nezuko is a demon.

Li Tieguai: WHAAAT——! De-de-demon, isn’t it the target you Demon Slayer Corps want to destroy? How, how could she still——

Kyojuro Rengoku: Of course it’s because she is a demon not feeding on humans! Am I right, Young Kamado!

Tanjiro Kamado: Boohoo...I, I’m touched...You must’ve suffered a lot...Tanjiro you’re a good brother…Li, why are you crying?

Li Tieguai: Boohoo...I, I’m touched...You must’ve suffered a lot...Tanjiro you’re a good brother…

Nezuko Kamado: ...

Li Tieguai's miserable cry seemed to touch Nezuko. She walked over and patted his head as if to comfort him, but the tenderness made Li Tieguai cry even worse.

Li Tieguai: “I can’t believe such a kind person has to get through a cruel fate like this...It’s not fair!”

Kyojuro Rengoku: Hahaha! Li is truly an emotional person!

Tanjiro Kamado: Li, I appreciate your tears.

Tanjiro took out a handkerchief and handed it to Li Tieguai, who began to calm down after blowing his nose. Looking at Tanjiro and Nezuko, he felt sorrow.

Li Tieguai: It’s good to have brothers and sisters.

Tanjiro Kamado: Li, do you have any brother and sister?

Li Tieguai: ...I don’t know.

Tanjiro Kamado: Huh? What do you mean?

Li Tieguai: I lost my memories. I can’t remember things before 4 years old.

Li Tieguai raised his hem to show his metallic left foot. It was not an augmentation but was born and grown to be a part of his body.

Li Tieguai: Not just my left foot, my body part is metalized.

Li Tieguai: Master told me that I suffered life-threatening injuries in my childhood, but my life was saved by these metals at the verge of death, and I lost my memory because of this.

Li Tieguai: Later, when wandering on the streets, I was picked up by master to the Heavenly Kingdom.

Tanjiro Kamado: Is it alright to tell this secret to us?

The metalized truth was also the weak spot of Li Tieguai. Normally it should be kept cautiously.

Li Tieguai: No problem! You all are good people! That’s why I trust you! You didn’t question or hate me even after you saw my strange body. In return, I’ll do whatever I can to pay for it!

Tanjiro Kamado: Nonono, that’s not necessary! I don’t want to put you in danger.

Kyojuro Rengoku: Don’t worry! I won’t let Li get hurt!

Li Tieguai: Rengoku is surely reliable! Hahaha!

Tanjiro Kamado: “It must be tough for Li to get through all these. His kindness and sincerity are admirable.”

Kyojuro Rengoku: Hm! Break time is up! Let’s get moving!

When they stood up, the candle lights in the hall all became spooky red.

???: Come and play...hide and seek...with me...bet on your own life…

Chapter 7　Attack of Birdcage[]

Story

On the middle-level corridor in the north of the pagoda, Inosuke kept holding his swords while bothering Lü Dongbin, whereas Zenitsu followed in the back, looking around cowardly.

Zenitsu Agatsuma: Hey hey! Are you sure you can send us back to our world?

Lü Dongbin: If you can get into this world, I’m sure there’s a way to get out. However, I’m not an expert in this kind of arts. So we need to go to the top to meet my fellows.

Lü Dongbin: Beware, there are many spirits out of control in the pagoda.

Inosuke Hashibira: Hahaha! I’m not scared at all! Bring it on!

Zenitsu Agatsuma: NOOOO! I don’t want to die! Brother, you have to protect me——Squeak! What’s the sound!

Inosuke Hashibira: Must be the spirits! Here I come! Here I come!

Lü Dongbin: You! Stop going forward recklessly!

As Inosuke rushed forward with his swords, Lü Dongbin and Zenitsu immediately caught up. After the chase, he came to a sealed dome-shaped room. The arc wall was covered with iron brackets, and the ground was stained and stinking.

Lü Dongbin: It’s a high spirit. If we get trapped into her bird cage, we could never get out again. Leave!

Zenitsu Agatsuma: Run! I don’t want to stay...AHHHHH! Something just dropped on me! It-it’s faecal dropping! I can’t take it anymore——!

Birdcage of Relentless Resentment: Lü Dongbin hurriedly pulled up the frightened and lethargic Zenitsu to run back on the road, but there was a pair of resentful green eyes at the entrance. A woman came from the darkness, exuding evil aura.

Spirit of Birdcage: You damned ascetic! How dare you take my birds! Give them back!

Inosuke Hashibira: No matter if you’re a small or a big bird, go to hell!

Inosuke stepped on Lü Dongbin’s back to leap over and slashed that woman. Although she was hit, she reappeared in another place in an instant, as if to tease them. That woman figure kept disappearing and reappearing.

Inosuke Hashibira: Huh! What’s going on!

Lü Dongbin: These are just clones of that spirit. You have to find the real one!

Inosuke Hashibira: Then go find it out!!

Lü Dongbin: It’s not that easy! Look up!

Only then did Inosuke raise his head, and he saw that the dome of the room was full of bird cages and dense black shadows, which were not bats but headless giant birds. Each with half an arm in size. They were hanging upside down in groups on the iron branches on the roof, as black as pitch.

Inosuke Hashibira: Humph! This can’t hold me up!

Inosuke thrust his swords into the ground and laid his hands flat.

Inosuke Hashibira: Beast Breathing Seventh Form: Spatial Awareness.

Inosuke Hashibira: Hoho! I got it! Among all these cages, only you have a special aura!

Inosuke pointed to the birdcage hanging on the top and right side. Lü Dongbin took a look and found that it was protected by a layer of spiritual power.

Lü Dongbin: Let me break it——Ah!

When Lü Dongbin was about to attack, the spirit of birdcage appeared suddenly to choke his neck, throwing him to the wall. Zenitsu was also dropped to the floor.

Spirit of Birdcage: I won’t forgive you! Never!

Lü Dongbin: Cough…

Lü Dongbin: “I can’t break loose...The chaos this time must have made the spirits berserk too...Darn it…”

Inosuke Hashibira: White-haired guy!

Spirit of Birdcage: Don’t disturb me!

Much as Inosuke was trying to help, he was surrounded by headless birds summoned by the spirit.

Being choked, Lü Dongbin could feel that he was losing his sight and consciousness. At the verge of death, he saw the fainted Zenitsu get back up, giving off a completely different vibe than usual.

Zenitsu Agatsuma: Hiss…

Zenitsu Agatsuma: “Thunder Breathing First Form——Thunderclap and Flash! Sixfold!”

His yellow haori fluttered. Zenitsu scratched through the air with a golden trail and dashed to the top as fast as lightning. In the blink of an eye, the real bird cage was cut off.

Spirit of Birdcage: My...birds…

Then, the spirit of birdcage and the headless birds were all gone.

Lü Dongbin: Phew...finished…

Inosuke Hashibira: Are you too scared to stand up? Haha! You suck! I’m much stronger than you!

Inosuke ran back to where Lü Dongbin was sitting at and danced energetically. Lü Dongbin, who just walked out of the door of death, was too exhausted to argue.

Lü Dongbin: Yeah yeah! You’re stronger than me. Satisfied?

At this moment, Zenitsu woke up from the sleep, looked around and hugged Lü Dongbin at once.

Zenitsu Agatsuma: Thank you so much!! I’m saved! I’ll never forget your kindness!

Lü Dongbin: Wh-what!

Lü Dongbin: “This guy can’t even remember anything he just did.”

Lü Dongbin: Alright, now that we’re all safe, let’s continue.

With a bitter smile, Lü Dongbin led the two to leave the room. No one was aware that there was a glistening white feather attached to the back of Zenitsu…