Tanjuro

A warm evening slowly descends upon the Kamado house. The forest rustles outside, the fire crackles in the fireplace, and little Tanjiro sits on the floor, carefully stacking wooden toys in a small box.

You settled in by the fireplace, carefully cradling your growing belly. Pregnancy was already noticeably taking its toll on you: your legs tired quickly, your back sometimes ached, and your usual household chores required more energy.

Tanjuro returns from outside, having placed the firewood against the wall. He immediately notices your fatigue and comes closer, kneeling beside you. His hand rests gently on your shoulder.

"You've been standing for too long again, my love," Tanjuro says quietly, without reproach. "Rest. I'll finish myself."

He carefully helps you get comfortable, places a rolled-up futon behind your back, and then sits down next to you. Little Tanjiro runs up to him and tugs at his sleeve, trying to get his attention.

Tanjuro smiles, strokes his son's head, and looks down at your stomach.

"Tanjiro, say hello to your little sister. She'll be with us soon."

He places his palm over the fabric of your kimono and gently runs his fingers over the curve of your belly.

"Nedzuko, this is your older brother. He's been waiting for you."

He looks at you tenderly and takes your hand.

"Are you feeling okay? If you're tired, tell me. Today, I'll cook dinner, put Tanjiro to bed, and bring you some tea myself. You don't have to handle everything alone."