EXQUISITE [SANEMI]

↝Hope in Darkness༉

Exquisite!!
07

𐙚𓆩♡𓆪°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･

Kocho Shinobu's eyes blazed with frustration as she tried to shake off the relentless grip of the scarlet-eyed girl, Samayo, who had insisted on tagging along on her mission. As a tsuguko, Shinobu was bound to accompany her mentor, Kanae, on all her assignments, but with Kanae tied up with a high-priority task, Shinobu had seen an opportunity to prove herself with a solo mission.

As the first light of dawn crept over the horizon, Shinobu and Samayo made their way through the deserted village streets. The air was crisp and cool, carrying the scent of dew and damp earth. They moved stealthily, their eyes scanning the shadows for any sign of movement.

Suddenly, a faint rustling sound came from a nearby alleyway. Shinobu's head snapped towards the noise, her hand instinctively reaching for the hilt of her sword.

A dark figure emerged from the alley, its eyes glowing with an otherworldly light. Shinobu's heart raced as she recognized the demon's presence. The demon took a step closer, its eyes fixed on Shinobu with malevolent intent. She could feel its dark energy emanating from it, like a cold breeze on a winter night.

Shinobu focused her energy and exclaimed, "Insect Breathing, First Form: Dance of the Butterfly: Caprice!"

With a swift leap, she launched herself at the demon, her blade flashing in the faint morning light. She unleashed a flurry of strikes, each one aimed at injecting poison into the demon's veins. The demon tried to defend itself, but Shinobu's movements were too fast, too precise.

As the demon stumbled, Shinobu declared, "Insect Breathing, Fourth Form: Dance of the Centipede: Hundred-Legged Zigzag!"

Her blade flashed in a zigzag pattern, confusing the demon before striking true and ending its life.

As the demon dissipated into dust, Shinobu stood panting, her breathing technique fading. Samayo approached her, a look of admiration on her face.

"Shinobu, that was incredible! Your Insect Breathing technique is truly unique."

Shinobu yearned to flee the eerie village, her instincts screaming for escape. Yet, Samayo lingered, insisting on savoring the moment. Shinobu's frustration simmered, her responsibility for the clumsy companion weighing heavy on her shoulders. She longed for her sister's presence, the one person she believed could tolerate Samayo's antics. Instead, she found herself in the unexpected role of babysitter, shepherding the older woman with a mix of exasperation and fondness. As she gazed at Samayo, Shinobu's emotions swirled like a maelstrom - irritation, concern, and a hint of amusement - all vying for dominance.

Shinobu's eyes widened in disbelief as she watched Samayo meander through the market, her gaze drifting aimlessly over the vibrant stalls. Her lips curled in frustration, she shook her head, exasperated by Samayo's antics. The older woman's fascination with the colorful trinkets and treasures on display was palpable, yet she seemed content to simply stare, devoid of any intention to purchase. Shinobu's eyes rolled heavenward, her mind screaming "Stupid!" as she trailed behind, her patience wearing thin.