At the tender age of 29, (Y/N) Rengoku found herself grappling with a reality she never envisioned. The tragic demise of her beloved husband aboard the Mugen Train, plunged her into a profound and shattering sorrow. The very fire that had once kindl...
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Chapter Twenty One:
The midday sun cast a warm glow over the grounds of the Butterfly Mansion as Hinoko strolled leisurely alongside her friend Aoi.
Their conversation buzzed with the aftermath of a recent mission, recounting tales of peril and valor as they navigated the path with a basket of freshly laundered clothes in tow.
"There were a lot of injured men-!" Aoi exclaimed, "It's a miracle that they've survived for this long."
Hinoko nodded along, feeling a little distraught, "Yeah, you're right."
Despite the cheerful banter, Hinoko's thoughts lingered on her younger brother Kijuro, who was diligently preparing himself for the arduous journey of becoming a demon slayer.
A heavy sigh escaped her lips, a mixture of pride and apprehension tugging at her heartstrings.
"Sparred enough for today?" Aoi's voice broke through Hinoko's reverie, drawing her attention to the courtyard ahead.
Hinoko's gaze followed Aoi's gesture, and her eyes widened in surprise as she caught sight of Kijuro engaged in a spirited bout with an unfamiliar figure.
The rhythmic clash of wooden swords echoed in the air, punctuated by the occasional grunt of exertion.
"Kijuro's really going all out," Hinoko remarked, her brows furrowing with concern as she quickened her pace to get a closer look.
As they approached, Hinoko's heart skipped a beat when she recognized the formidable figure facing her brother. It was Giyu, the Water Hashira, renowned for his prowess in battle and unwavering resolve.
"Isn't that Giyu-senpai?" Aoi's voice held a note of disbelief as they drew nearer, confirming Hinoko's observation.
Hinoko's eyes widened in astonishment as she took in the scene before her. Despite his injuries, Giyu moved with a grace and precision that belied his current condition, effortlessly parrying Kijuro's strikes with practiced ease.
"Even on crutches, Giyu-senpai is a force to be reckoned with," Hinoko murmured, her admiration mingled with a tinge of concern for his well-being.
Aoi nodded in agreement, her gaze fixed on the duel unfolding before them. "He's truly remarkable," she remarked, her voice tinged with awe.
As they watched, Kijuro launched into a series of rapid attacks, his movements fueled by determination and youthful vigor. But each strike was expertly countered by Giyu, his skill and experience evident in every fluid motion.
