Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba—The Flower Of Happiness gets its title from one of the stories in the novel. Written by Aya Yajima with original concept by Koyoharu Gotouge and translation by Jocelyne Allen, the original stories in this Viz Media novel cover the search for and meaning of love, courage, and friendship, sometimes in one tale. The stories take place at different times, even other worlds. Any fan of the series will need to get their hands on The Flower Of Happiness thanks to the extra glimpse into the beloved characters the stories deliver.
There are five stories, most of which focus on the wailing yet unknowingly strong and resilient Zenitsu. But Inosuke and Tanjiro are present and active too. The first story focuses on Tanjiro and Zenitsu as they and Inosuke receive an invitation to a wedding. After the wedding, Tanjiro sees two sisters arguing about finding a specific flower that guarantees happiness. Tanjiro decides to sneak off and retrieve this flower for Nezuko. It is an endearing story that shows misfortune does not mean unhappiness; people can find joy despite unfortunate circumstances, especially if you have people you cherish.
The Flower of Happiness Novel Gives Zenitsu Tales Galore
Chapter 2, “For Whom,” shows a sweet moment with Zenitsu hanging out with Nezuko in a field. He plans to pick flowers to make her a crown. As he spies a yellow flower, Zenitsu flashes back to memory during his training with former Hashira Jigoro Kuwajima, or Gramps as Zenitsu calls him. Zenitsu’s hilarious rationalization each time he awakens to find an enemy defeated is also sad. Yet, despite Zenitsu’s terror, he does not shy away from helping others. He meets a girl, Sayuri, who he finds weeping because her stepfather offered her to a demon to save the rest of the family. Zenitsu learns that being brave is not fearlessness but stepping up despite teeth-chattering terror.
The third chapter of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba—The Flower of Happiness centers on Zenitsu, though Tanjiro’s perspective tells the story. They wander through a town when a fortune-teller warns Zenitsu that he will die if he does not avoid all women who like him. Zenitsu feels terror in normal circumstances, but this sends him into a tailspin of horror and delusion. He thinks every girl near him is about to profess undying love and devotion.
Tanjiro has his hands full, keeping Zenitsu from making a scene. It is harder still since Tanjiro starts to believe the fortune might be true. With a clear message that fears dull the senses to where one cannot discern the truth, the story delivers it in a page-turning way. Zenitsu is easily a favorite. Even in the grips of terror, Zenitsu still stops to save a girl while trying to avoid all of them.
Sisters On A Journey
“Aoi and Kanao,” the fourth chapter of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba—The Flower of Happiness, has to be my favorite. My favorite scene in the anime is when Kanao chooses for herself. She stops the Uzui Tengen, from taking Aoi away. This story takes place after Tanjiro, Zenitsu, and Inosuke agree to go in Aoi’s stead but before their return. Aoi feels tremendous guilt because she is a Demon Slayer who does not fight. She wants to thank Kanao for helping her then but struggles to speak with Kanao. When Shinobu sends the pair to town to get medical supplies, the journey teaches both of them. Aoi understands Kanao better and also learns about her own admirable qualities.
Some Other World
The final chapter is another world. Tanjiro and Zenitsu are students in high school. Zenitsu requires Tanjiro’s assistance to quit the discipline committee. Each time he broaches the subject with teacher Mr. Tomioka, Mr. Tomioka punches him in the face before he can get the words out. Poor Zenitsu. Just saying Mr. Tomioka’s name makes him ill. An odd story, but interesting to see characters in such a different setting. It’s adorable and funny because the personalities are the same.
You will have favorite chapters in Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba—The Flower of Happiness, but each delivers more of our faves together. From the hilarious to the sweet, every tale has fun and lessons. I wish the manga did not end so soon, but the joy of revisiting those characters in a new adventure is immeasurable. I hope they continue giving me opportunities to spend time with them while I wait for the next arc of the Demon Slayer anime.
