The Crystal's Whisper and The Wind's Embrace

Chapter 29: The Final Task

Tsukiyo adjusted the straps of her sword as she stood before the entrance of the Demon Slayer Corps headquarters, her heart pounding with anticipation. 

She stole a glance at Giyu, her stoic partner for this mission, who stood beside her with his usual air of quiet determination.

Despite his reserved nature, Tsukiyo had grown to admire Giyu's unwavering resolve and skill in battle.

As they are preparing to set off for their mission, Tsukiyo found herself lost in thought, reflecting on the journey that had led her to this moment.

Lost in her musings, Tsukiyo nearly jumped when she felt a gentle touch on her shoulder. She turned to find Giyu looking at her with a rare hint of concern in his eyes.

"Are you ready for this, Amano?" Giyu asked quietly, without much expression.

Tsukiyo nodded, grateful for his silent support. "I am," she replied, her voice steady despite the nervous flutter in her stomach. "With you as my partner for the mission, I know we can handle whatever comes our way."

Giyu offered her a small, reassuring nod before turning his attention back to the task at hand.

Tsukiyo couldn't help but feel a surge of gratitude towards him, knowing that she could always rely on his strength and guidance in times of need.

Before they could delve further into their conversation, however, they were interrupted by the approach of a familiar figure. It was Sanemi, the brash and fiercely independent Hashira.

"Amano," Sanemi addressed Tsukiyo, his voice unusually solemn, "I need to speak with you before you depart." He glared at Giyu briefly, who stood quietly at the side.

Tsukiyo exchanged a puzzled glance with Giyu, who nodded in silent permission for her to proceed.

Turning her attention back to Sanemi, she braced herself for whatever he had to say, knowing that his words would carry great weight.

"Amano, I have one last order for you before our bet ends," Sanemi stated, his tone grave. "I order you to-"

Tsukiyo rolled her eyes, expecting another mundane chore. 

"Just cut me some slack, Shinazugawa. The month is almost over, and I am going on a mission. He still wants me to help him with his chores?"  Tsukiyo thought internally as Sanemi began to speak.

"- come back safely." Sanemi finished.

"Huh?" Tsukiyo blinked in surprise. She had braced herself for a menial task, perhaps cleaning his house or attempting to cook, despite her disastrous attempts with ohagi.

"I mean it. Come back without a scratch. That's my final order," Sanemi reiterated, his cheeks tinged with a hint of red as he avoided her gaze.

"You'll be partnering with that Tomioka. He's a weird one. I don't know if he's reliable on a mission like this. Just make sure you take care of yourself," he added, his tone slightly softer than usual.

A warm feeling spread through Tsukiyo. Despite Sanemi's abrasive exterior and gruff manner, she knew he cared deeply for his comrades.

Before she could fully process her feelings, Sanemi was in front of her, flicking her forehead. "Why are you spacing out? Are you even listening?"

Tsukiyo's heart raced as Sanemi's face came close to hers. "Why is my heart beating so fast? Maybe I should get checked at the Butterfly Mansion before the mission. This has been happening to me, not sure if there is something wrong with my body" she thought, flustered.

"Hey! Amano Tsukiyo! Are you listening?" Sanemi interrupted, clearly irritated.

"Huh? Oh- yes, don't worry, I'm the Crystal Hashira after all. I'll be back in one piece," Tsukiyo assured him, pulling herself together.

Sanemi smirked, "Good. Once you're back, as a reward for keeping your end of our deal, I'll prepare a congratulatory meal for you."

Tsukiyo eyed him suspiciously, "A meal from you? Should I be concerned about its safety? I don't want to die after surviving the mission."

Sanemi scoffed, "It'll definitely be better than your cooking. If I can survive your food, you have nothing to worry about."

"I'd eat it even if it was deadly, because it's from you!" Tsukiyo grinned.

Sanemi shook his head, "You're ridiculous. But don't worry, it'll be the best meal you've ever had. I always keep my promises," he said, a hint of pride in his voice.

Tsukiyo smiled, touched by his concern. "I'll hold you to that, Shinazugawa."