Set Your Heart Ablaze||Male Reader Edition

||Chapter 1||Apprentice||

       Y/n's pov

       It was a nice, sunny day. The sky a light blue, the trees lightly moving with the wind. It was so peaceful that I could almost forget what lies outside of the estate. How could such a beautiful day be tainted by horrifying creatures? It's upsetting to know that a beautiful day can only turn into a dangerous night thanks to the demons that are thirsty for blood.
        I was too busy enjoying the peace and quiet that I failed to notice a certain man with blonde hair that dawned red at the tips looking down at me laying in the grass. He'd made no effort to warn me of his presence, causing me to almost jump up from being startled by his boisterous voice.

       "Y/n! I notice you're enjoying this fine day."

       I couldn't help but meekly reply with a small 'yes, sir' as I tried to regain my composure. He let out a hearty laugh at the sight of me. I could only bring myself to look down slightly as a light shade of pink grew across my face from embarrassment.

       "I hope you didn't get too comfortable. Today is the day we begin training together. I'm interested in seeing the talent I've heard so much about."

        "I wouldn't call it talent. Maybe..."

       I don't know why, but I found no other words to speak as I tried to lower his expectations. I have worked hard since a young age to reach the rank of a hashira. After hard work and dangerous training with my family, I was able to reach a rank close enough to draw attention to myself. But somehow, I couldn't allow myself to be seen as someone with talent or much to be proud about. No matter how hard I work, I can only humble myself and work harder to reach my goal.
        Like many, my reasoning for becoming a hashira is to prove my strengths when fighting demons. I want to be able to help get rid of the predators that shatter the peace in towns, ruining many lives for men, women, and children. Fortunately, now that Mitsuri Kanroji has become the newest member of the hashira, I can become an apprentice like her.
        Kyojuro Rengoku is the one I'll be striving to impress. After hearing about his success at his age, I couldn't help but convince myself he'll be the key to unlocking what ever skills I haven't developed yet. We happen to be the same age, but he is more skilled than I am. Knowing he comes from a line of noble warriors, I do not doubt his capabilities.
        Regardless of his impressive reputation, he is a very kind person. He seems to notice both strengths and weaknesses in one and can give great encouragement. I would be lying if I told myself I wasn't at least a little nervous about reaching the expectations he'll have for me.

           "No need to be so modest! I've heard plenty and I have a feeling you are an excellent swordsman."

           His words made me smile at the thought that he already had hope for me. After formally introducing ourselves, Kyojuro escorted me to his place, briefly telling me the main tasks that will be a part of training each time I come. It wasn't long before I was to show him my current physical strengths and my sword technique.
           What was a beautiful morning turned to a glowing evening. The sun was beginning to set as a young boy came out of Kyojuro's house, bearing s striking resemblance to him. The boy greeted me with a gentle smile while holding a tray of food.

            "Ah, Senjuro! Is it dinner time already?"

           "Yes, I made your favorite."

           With those words, Kyojuro decided training would finally be over for the day. I was introduced to Senjuro, who turns out to be his younger brother. I couldn't help but find it cute how similar they looked aside from Kyojuro's enthusiastic gaze and Senjuro's gentle and timid appearance.
             After staying to eat with the two, I began to head back home. I jumped and skipped almost the whole way back, unable to contain how happy I was that all of this was actually happening. I was finally going to work with a hashira. No, the flame hashira!

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~Author's Note~

Hi guys! I hope you liked this chapter. I know it might have been a bit boring and I apologize. Chapter 2 will be a little more interesting since I'll be able to work on it more!