Whispers of the Wind

Chapter 2: Emerald Awakening

I stood on the brink of a new chapter, my heart racing with anticipation as I awaited my Nichirin sword. Having successfully passed the Final Selection exam, I was now officially a Mizunoto within the Demon Slayer Corps. Thoughts swirled like restless winds—what would my sword look like? Which breathing style would I finally master? Just as I lost myself in these questions, a sharp knock on the door shattered my focus. 

When I opened it, I found a man standing before me—his presence both commanding and humble. "My name is Haganezuka. I have forged your sword, and I am here to deliver it."

Surprised, I watched as he knelt before me, presenting the wrapped blade with reverence. "Here is your Nichirin sword."

I took the sword from his hands, my heart racing with anticipation. Nichirin swords, known as "Color Changing Swords," symbolized a Demon Slayer's potential. Taking a deep breath, I drew the blade and held it up, eager to see its color. A deep shade of emerald green crept up the blade, shimmering in the sunlight.

"What does it mean?" I asked glancing back at Haganezuka.

"When a Demon Slayer's sword turns emerald green, it usually indicates that they will become experts in Wind Breathing," he explained. "The most prominent weirder of this color is Sanemi Shinazugawa, the Wind Hashira."

His words echoed in my mind, igniting a spark of determination within me. If I was to unlock my potential, I needed to find the Wind Hashira himself. I envisioned him standing tall, fierce and unwavering, guiding me through the intricacies of Wind Breathing. 

The thought filled me with both excitement and anxiety. What if I wasn't strong enough? What if I failed to live up to the legacy of those who wielded the emerald blade before me? But deep down, I knew that I had to try. 

I set out on my journey, my sword strapped firmly at my side. Each step was a commitment to my dream, the path ahead shrouded in uncertainty but illuminated by hope. I traveled through dense forests and across rugged mountains, asking villagers along the way about Sanemi's whereabouts. 

Most could only tell tales of his legendary feats, recounting how he single-handedly vanquished powerful demons. I absorbed every word, using it to fuel my determination. I imagined what it would be like to train under such a master, to feel the wind's embrace as I honed my skills. 

Night started to creep through the woods, casting long shadows that danced between the trees. I realized I needed somewhere to stay before darkness fully enveloped me. The forest felt alive, but it was also filled with uncertainty. I could hear the rustle of leaves and the distant hoot of an owl, but each sound heightened my awareness of the lurking dangers. 

As I searched for shelter, I heard rustling in the woods ahead. My heart quickened, and I instinctively reached for my sword, ready to draw it at a moment's notice. Peering through the trees, I strained to assess the situation. Just then, a loud scream pierced the air, and my instincts took over. I dashed toward the commotion, adrenaline fueling my steps. 

When I arrived, I was met with a striking sight. A tall man, muscular and imposing, stood defiantly before a small boy, his spiky white hair illuminated by the fading light. His face and body were marred by scars, a testament to countless battles fought. He had to be a Demon Slayer. 

Before him loomed a demon, grotesque and menacing, its jagged teeth glistening in the dim light. The boy huddled behind the slayer, wide-eyed and trembling, clearly terrified. My heart ached for the child, and I knew I couldn't stand by any longer. I approached the situation, stepping forward despite the danger. 

The tall man turned, his fierce gaze locking onto me. For a moment, I saw a flicker of surprise, but it quickly morphed into irritation. "What the hell are you doing?" His voice was abrasive, laced with a frustration that felt palpable. 

Ignoring him, I stepped closer, my sword at the ready. "That boy needs protection. I won't let this demon hurt him."

"Get back!" the slayer barked, his irritation rising. "This is not a game!" 

I ignored his warning and faced the demon, adrenaline coursing through me. As the demon lunged towards me, I froze, momentarily stunned by its grotesque form. This wasn't like the demons I'd fought before. Its jagged teeth jutted from a wide, gaping maw, glistening with a dark sheen that hinted its gruesome appetite. Its skin was a mottled shade of gray and black, and patches of pulsating veins throbbed beneath the surface. Its menacing presence filled me with a fear I hadn't anticipated. 

In that moment, the slayer pushed me aside, taking my place just as the demon charged. I stumbled, hitting my head against the ground, and everything went dark. The last sensation I registered was the rush of air as the battle raged on around me, the sounds of clashing steel fading into silence.