The eye of the storm (Sanemi x Reader)

15| In our hearts

I woke up early with the dawn, eager to resume my training in the garden of our estate. My focus was unwavering; I was set on mastering the Eighth Form. It wasn't solely for my own benefit, though. My aim was to impart this knowledge to Zenitsu, enabling him to further bolster his strength. Zenitsu only knew the First Form of Thunder, but it was the most important one, as it served as the foundation for the others. To unlock the potential of the Eighth, mastering the First was imperative.

My attempts to teach Zenitsu other breathing techniques had proven futile in the past. Yet, his mastery of the First Form remained unparalleled, a testament to his innate talent. Grandpa always emphasized its significance, and I witnessed its power firsthand. As for myself, I had honed my skills up to the Seventh Form through relentless dedication. I even tried teaching the Sixth and the seventh form to Kaigaku, but after several failed attempts, he gave up and told me to buzz off.

However, the Eighth Form presented a new challenge. My resolve remained unyielding; I was determined to impart this knowledge to both Zenitsu and Kaigaku. With their potential as future Pillars, combining their unique talents could prove formidable.

I unsheathed my sword in the quiet garden, feeling the weight of it in my hand. My crow watched me from the fence, its eyes betraying a hint of fatigue. Closing my eyes, I focused on my breathing, blocking out all distractions. These early morning moments were perfect to train, filled only with the gentle rustle of leaves, the soft chirping of birds, and the earthy scent of the garden.

With a deep breath, I began practicing the Eighth Form. I knew it wouldn't be easy, but I was determined to master it. Each attempt was met with failure, but I refused to give up. My muscles ached with the effort, but I pushed through, driven by the desire to succeed.

An hour passed, and still I persisted, my determination unyielding. The Eighth Form demanded much of me, draining my energy with each repetition. But I knew its power could be invaluable, capable of turning the tide in battle and saving countless lives.

As my crow let out a small yawn, I couldn't help but find it endearing. I continued my training, focusing on the rhythmic movements of my sword. Meanwhile, my crow decided to fly freely.

Amidst the quiet, I caught a faint sound, barely perceptible to most, but my keen ears picked it up instantly. In an instant, I spun around, instinctively blocking the attack of the intruder who had breached my estate. Our blades clashed, resonating in the stillness of the garden, and I found myself face to face with Kaigaku.

At first, I was taken aback by his presence, but I quickly regained my composure, pushing him back with a defensive strike. Kaigaku stumbled backward, and we stood apart, a tension crackling between us. He gritted his teeth in frustration, and I remained on guard, ready in case he launch another attack.

"What are you doing?" I asked, bewildered by his sudden aggression.

"What about you?" he snapped, his anger palpable. "What you think you're doing?"

I stared at him dumbfounded. My pupils turned into two dots.

"Huh? I'm training, like a demon slayer typically does." I replied.

That seemed to anger Kaigaku even more, who spoke with eyes completely white with fury.

"I didn't mean that, you idiot!" he exclaimed, frustrated. 

"Idiot?" I blinked, bewildered. 

Kaigaku kicked the ground several times, growing increasingly desperate, then pointed at me angrily. "Do you honestly believe that by mastering a new form, Grandpa will hand you the position of the Pillar? Forget it. That position is mine."