𝐓𝐀𝐌𝐄 𝐌𝐘 𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐓 | 𝑺.𝑺𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒛𝒖𝒈𝒂𝒘𝒂

𝟒𝟎 | 𝐎𝐛𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

~*~

AT BUTTERFLY MANSION DOJO

"Begin!"

The sound of wooden swords clang together with ferocity, seeing Kaito not relenting to fall and lose from this spar. You can easily tell in his eyes his determination, something I clearly underestimated from the beginning. Kaito takes a wide opening to his advantage, not allowing the other slayer to have a moment to block. However the slayer managed to redirect the attack, but very sloppily. 

Many gasps follow the slayers around, whilst I keep myself focused on their techniques.

I knew very well this isn't Shinobu's way of rehabilitation, but I guess she changes from time to time to find an easier method in faster recovery. It happens every few years I would assume, changing ways in how to heal and recuperate without losing your physical strength to strict bed rest for hours. 

Kaito's fluid movements and motions were derived from his breathing technique, recognising it as Water Breathing. Easy to pick up on those moves, it was still rather stiff and hesitant. I wasn't sure how long they've been slayers, but I'm surprised to see more potential in Kaito than anyone else I've see so far. Maybe I was a bit to harsh before, but I can't let anything happen to anyone else again. It was like death was set for my line of successors, or those who walk that path with me who are fated to death.

A soft and sharp grunts follow with their swings, and their feet padding across the tatami floor with swiftness and stability.

Finally with one miscalculation of the slayers movements, Kaito saw an opening and took it as he jabs the wooden blade knocking the slayers blade from his grip. The young slayer collapses from his previous leg injury, as his chest heaves staring up towards Kaito with admiration and surprise with a little humiliation. "You got me......"

Kaito smirks and lends him a hand, "You keep lasting a minute longer, good job Takashi," hauling him in with a strong monkey grip, dusting himself off.

Both the slayers turn to me waiting for me to say a few words, as I gesture for them to kneel before my knelt position. They follow suit and lower themselves to my level, wanting them to know I see them on an equal level, "You both have potential, especially when your Wind breathing words along with Water......" I spoke up, earning surprised expressions.

"How did she--" Takashi chokes out, but doesn't finish whilst seeing a knowing expression on my face. He suddenly bows with his hands hitting the floor intensely, "Lady Mizutsuki, please forgive me for speaking out of turn!!!!!"

I hold my hand up, "Takashi, right?" earning a small nod, meeting his round brown eyes. "You have no reason to apologise, I understand some of you haven't been taught the full lessons of swordsmanship. However, seeking guidance by a mentor you previously has might help increase your potential........or even be chosen to become a Tsugoku for a hashira. Either that, or just become a student instead........"

Kaito's eyes lighten up in response, his cheeks flare up with excitement, "Wait so does that mean........"

Giving him a nod, "Kaito Igarashi, will you become my Tsukgoku?" I ask him softly, giving him my full focus on him. "Watching you today, has made me realise how much I've underestimated you. With my guidance, I hopefully will raise your potential into a fine swordsman........and will learn and teach Dragon Breathing if I ever retire or die in battle."

His green eyes widen in surprise, before he bows with vigour. 

"Yes, yes I will learn and be taught under you!" He spoke, with such a formal tone.