The first rays of dawn filtered through the dense forest, painting the leaves in soft gold. Lyra sat cross-legged on a mossy stone, gripping her sword as if it were a lifeline. Around her, the familiar figures of Tanjiro, Zenitsu, Inosuke, and Nezuko watched cautiously.
"You're… different," Zenitsu muttered, his eyes wide. "I've never felt energy like yours from anyone before."
Lyra tilted her head. "Energy?"
Tanjiro nodded. "Yes. Your breathing… it's powerful, but it's unlike any style we know. You'll need guidance if you're going to survive against Upper Moon demons."
Lyra's gaze fell on the nearby training grounds. She had fought the demon in the forest last night, but this was different. Here, she would learn to refine her power and understand the rules of this world.
First Lesson
Under Tanjiro's instruction, she attempted the basic sword movements, but her strikes emitted flickers of flame and sparks of electricity — a mix of something magical and her own innate power.
"Focus your breath," Tanjiro instructed gently. "Inhale… then strike. Let the sword guide you, not your magic."
Lyra took a deep breath. "Mythical Beast… Kirin Charge!"
A bolt of energy surged along her blade, crackling like lightning. She swung, narrowly missing a wooden dummy, which exploded in sparks. Tanjiro's eyes widened. "Impressive… but you need control."
First Real Battle
Before training could continue, a shrill scream pierced the air. A demon had attacked a nearby village. Without hesitation, Lyra and the team ran toward the danger.
The demon towered over the frightened villagers, its multiple limbs lashing out. Zenitsu froze, Inosuke roared, and Tanjiro dashed forward. Lyra's heart pounded — this was her first real test.
"Phoenix Strike!" she shouted. A wave of fire-like energy erupted from her blade, forcing the demon back.
Tanjiro and the others exchanged glances. "She's not just strong… she's something else entirely."
Lyra leapt forward, combining Dragon Tail Sweep with Tanjiro's Water Breathing: the demon staggered, caught off-guard by the unpredictable movements. Nezuko joined in with her Blood Demon Art, and together, they cornered the creature.
When the demon fell, Lyra's chest heaved, sweat mingling with relief. Tanjiro approached her, smiling.
"You did well," he said. "You're going to be an incredible ally."
Lyra looked up at the sky, golden sunlight reflecting in her eyes. "I… I think I'm ready. Ready to fight, to protect this world… and maybe find my way home."