The Shadow Hashira - Tengen X Reader X Sanemi

42

The next few days passed in a blur, filled with early dawns and late nights as I committed myself to training. The estate grounds were vast, nestled in the tranquil embrace of the surrounding mountains, with quiet glades and hidden clearings perfect for honing my skills. The strength trial had left me with a renewed sense of determination, and the constant presence of the other Hashira only fueled my drive. It was one thing to watch them from afar; it was something else entirely to train in their presence, to share the same grounds.

One morning, as the first light crept over the horizon, casting a pale golden glow over the estate, I headed to the training grounds, spear in hand. The air was crisp, and the cool morning breeze washed over me, bringing a calmness that settled into my bones. I had been practicing for about an hour, working on refining my shadow techniques, when I felt a subtle shift in the air behind me.

Turning, I found myself face-to-face with Giyu Tomioka. He was a silent presence, his expression as calm and composed as ever, yet his gaze held a quiet intensity that was hard to ignore.

"Giyu," I greeted, nodding respectfully.

He inclined his head, his expression unreadable. "Y/N. I saw you training... Your shadow technique is unique." His voice was low, soft, but there was a steady confidence to it that I admired.

"Thank you," I replied, slightly taken aback. Giyu wasn't one to go out of his way to speak with others, let alone offer a compliment. "I've worked a long time on it. Shadows aren't the easiest to master."

He nodded, eyes narrowing as he considered my weapon. "Control is essential. Without it, the shadows will take more than you intend to give. Your strikes are precise, but you should work on grounding yourself. It will make the technique stronger."

I absorbed his advice, letting his words sink in. "You're right," I replied, feeling a spark of gratitude. "I appreciate your insight."

He nodded, then moved to a nearby spot and silently began to train. I watched him for a moment, noting the fluid grace of his movements. Each strike was purposeful, yet restrained—a balance between strength and control that was mesmerizing to observe.

Giyu glanced over, catching my gaze. "Care to spar?" he asked, the challenge subtle but unmistakable in his tone.

I felt a surge of excitement at the unexpected invitation. "I'd be honoured." Maybe I can used to this? having friends? Can I call it that yet?...Ugh so much to learn Y/N

We moved to the centre of the clearing, assuming our stances. His eyes sharpened, his body as still as a lake before the storm. I readied my spear, the shadows at my feet pooling and rippling with anticipation.

He made the first move, lunging forward with a calculated strike that forced me to dodge, pivoting around him as I countered with a quick jab. His movements were smooth and measured, and every block, every shift, was a reminder of the calm he exuded in battle. Sparring with him felt like trying to outmanoeuvre water itself.

"Your form is solid," he remarked between strikes, his voice as even as his stance. "But try to focus on predicting my movement rather than reacting. It's less draining and gives you the advantage."

I adjusted, following his advice as I studied his movements more closely. Giyu's calm demeanour had a way of making the sparring match feel almost meditative. I found myself tuning into each movement, each shift of weight, anticipating rather than reacting, just as he had suggested.

As our spar continued, I noticed a subtle shift in him. His intensity grew, his strikes sharper, and it became clear that he was testing my limits. I pushed myself harder, my movements flowing as I blended my shadow techniques into each attack and defence.