hello everyone. Thanks for waiting a whole month for this update.

Chapter 10

One Sunday morning, the surrounding was fairly limited due to the moderate mist. Although it may bring annoyance to all those traveling, yet for its inhabitants within, provided an extra form of security. The luscious forest of Mount Sagiri offered itself as a sanctuary, away from the noisy cities to distress and clear the mind. The air was at its purist, no trace of smog whatsoever. The bark of the trees and the soil moist from the mist. The animals were by and large awakening, save for the birds whose chirping echoed throughout the area. The only sign of human life were two people, a master and their student.

"Can we take a break? We've been out here for an hour at least." Yuki whined.

"Oh my. My apologies from waking you up from your hibernation. Once we finish our training here, you may go back to sleep for the remainder of winter." The petite woman teased while giggling.

"Easy for you to say, miss Shinobu. You're not the one running up a mountain" the scrawny student complained. He shifted his arms to position Shinobu more comfortably on his back.

"Surely you're used to this being part of your routine, albeit a weekly one." She conveyed with a neutral expression.

"That's not the point." The dull-eyed boy grumbled as he saves his breath and followed the trail.

Ordinarily, he would be able to keep track of the trail but due to the unforeseen fog, he had to tread more carefully than ever. The insect pillar took notice of his anxiety and wrapped her arms around his neck and guided him on which turns to take, preventing him from slipping or going off track.

"Thank you for accompaning me, Kocho-sama. I know I complain a lot, but I'm grateful to share this time with you." He smiled sweetly.

"The pleasure is mine, Tāke-kun. You're far more opinionated than Kanao, but you're my dear student no less." She gently squeezed his shoulder.

He returned the gesture with a weak smile. He treaded the mountain as carefully as he could but was exhausted by the time he saw the outline of the top of the mountain.

"I can't take another step, miss Shinobu." Yuki wheezed as he placed her down gently. He inhaled and exhaled sharply as he collected himself. His instructor went up to him and patted his shoulder.

"It's okay, Subachi-kun. For what it's worth, you set a new personal record. Allow me handle the rest." Shinobu offered a small smile. She the picked up her student in her arms then fluttered the rest of the way upwards.

"I'm sorry for not meeting your expectations, Kocho-sama." He looked away from her as he held her tightly.

"You have nothing to apologize for. It's not an easy transition from being an heir to a demon slayer. But, if it means anything, I'm proud of you. You may not have reached the top by yourself, but you've made tremendous progress each visit. Give yourself credit when you can." The insect pillar explained.

The former heir nodded and held onto her tightly. They arrived to the top of the mountain and took in the morning view. Much of the forest was blanketed by a sea of clouds. Shinobu had released her student and they stood in silence. Gazing at the breathtaking scenery before them. The sun had since emerged from the sky and provided the warmth they needed after starting their day early in the cold damp forest. Yuki pulled out his pocket watch to read the time, which read nine o'clock.

"Progress takes time. I didn't become a demon slayer, let alone a hashira overnight. I can assure you, the end of the journey will be gratifying. You have my word." The lavender eyed woman looked up at her student.

"Thank you. I guess I'll have to take your word." The dull eyed boy conceded

"Until then, conquer this mountain to complete your first trial." Shinobu said with determination.

"Then I can write my name next to yours." He chirped.

"Of course. I'll have a chalk stick in handy." She giggled. Not too far from them was a makeshift pole someone had planted recently. Aside from residents in the immediate area, there was plenty of space for anyone to inscribe their name onto it.

"Let's get going, shall we? The air is thin up here." The Insect hashira stated as she cradled her student in her arms and treaded swiftly down the trail. She chuckled when she heard the skinny teen squeaked and held her tightly.

"I could walk by myself, master!" Yuki whined

"I know." She nods and couldn't keep a smile off her face.

The Insect hashira and her student had arrived down the mountain safely were heading home. Yuki glanced her way for she was sitting inside the wagon instead of the drivers seat alongside him.

"Miss Shinobu, how come you don't like to sit next to me anymore? The slim demon slayer asked.

"I simply trust you handling the horses. Is that so hard to believe?" she replied.

His expression softened and looked ahead. However, he felt there was an underlying reason as to why she didn't like being near animals. Something he would like to address another day. Once they arrived back to the town nearest the butterfly mansion, Yuki returned the horses to their stable and put away the wagon while ensuring that everything was secured. The two walked down a trail inside the woods leading them to the Insect hashira's residence.

Shinobu enters the gates followed by Yuki when they saw a stranger within her doorstep. Both of them had surprised looks on their faces. The person before them was a man with bright yellow hair with red streaks. He had a muscular build, donning a white haori with a yellow and red streak towards the bottom, resembling a flame pattern. The legs revealed a tint of brown for the uniform and leggings with the top half yellow and red on the bottom. Matching the flame pattern on the haori. The Insect pillar composes herself and engage conversation.

"Good afternoon, Rengoku-san. It's a pleasant surprise to see you stop by today."

"Hello, Kocho-chan. It is good to see you today. I wanted to make time to pay a visit to all the hashiras. I just finished visiting Shinazugawa-kun. We may not see eye to eye on everything, but he is my comrade no less and I respect his strength and values." Rengoku said.

"I agree. It's good to find middle ground with those you disagree with. That's a wonderful mindset you have. Once more, congratulations on becoming our newest hashira." Shinobu replied cheerfully. Yuki couldn't help but smile at the overall mellow interaction.

"Thank you. I'm blessed to have the support and encouragement from my comrades. Plus the support of my former tsuguko and younger brother." The flame hashira declared proudly.

"Indeed. I hope you weren't waiting too long since I was up climbing Mount sagiri this morning with my tsuguko." Shinobu stated.

"That makes sense. I'm glad you made it back safely. Speaking of which, I was under the impression your tsuguko is your sister, correct?" the flame hasira announced.

"Yes, my younger sister Kanao is undergoing her training. I was however, referring to my other student." The Insect hashira glanced at Yuki, who was slightly taller than the flame hashira.

"Goodness, he's a big fella. What might your name be? The yellow hair hashira addressed the boy. The dull eye boy stayed close to his teacher.

"Don't be afraid, tell him your name" the violet hair woman looked up. The lean student looked down and nods as he stepped forward.

"M-my name is S-Subachi Yuki. It's very nice to meet you, sir." The former heir pulled out a note card and spoke anxiously.

"For someone so tall, you sure are nervous. How peculiar." The flame pillar chuckled.

"It's n-not just that, your hair reminds me of someone who looked just like you. B-But he was much harsher." Yuki confessed.

"Ah, you must be referring to my father, the former flame hashira. We may look the same, but I'm much more approachable. Be at ease" he announced.

"I see. I-I asked your dad this but, did you visit a town near mount Kumotori by chance?" The dull eye teen asked meekly. The flame pillar shook his head.

"I've traveled to all sorts of places, villages and cities. Could you be more specific? The yellow eyed swordsman asked.

"It was... really late at night and it was snowing. I was huddled around by my servants." The former heir recalled the events.

"Ah, I remember now. I rescued a boy and another man along side my tsuguko at the time. I apologize for not recognizing you sooner. I'm glad you're alive and well." Rengoku replied enthusiastically.

"Yes, and did your student have pink hair?" yuki asked cautiously.

"That she does. You seem to have a fixation on people's hair for some reason" Rengoku said straightforwardly.

"I don't remember too many details of that night, but I remember two people with yellow and pink hair coming to me and my servants way before passing out. I'm so happy to have found my rescuers. Thank you so much, Rengoku-sama. Yuki said.

"Don't mention it. All I ask is for you to hold your head high. Be thankful you are still standing here after what you've gone through. I'm sure my former student would say the same." Rengoku replied passionately.

"I will. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart." The skinny student bowed politely.

"Just know if you ever need someone to talk to, feel free to reach out to me anytime. Rengoku announced.

"It's weird. I'm getting this feeling of a big brother out of you, Mister Rengoku.

"Your perception is spot on. I happen to have a younger brother. I know he'll achieve great things in any path he pursues." Rengoku replied.

"Wow. Wouldn't you know it, I also happen to be a big brother as well. My sister is several years younger than me. She's safe at home, away from the demons." Yuki said.

"That's great. Younger siblings are the best and as the eldest, it's our job to look out for them and become an example." Rengoku agreed.

"Indeed. But um, this may be embarrassing to say, when I'm with you, it feels as if…I can look up to you as my big brother. Which is weird because I've never had older siblings." Yuki admitted.

"You're not alone, I've given off that impression to several others already. But my offers still stands. Should you need someone to reach out to, come see me and I'll invite us to eat." Rengoku concluded.

Yuki smiled for a moment, only for it to disappear when his stomach growled at the mention of food.

"One more thing. Just now, you were hesitant to open up to me. The fact you've grown comfortable around me in such a short shows growth of your character. Keep at it, Subachi-kun." Rengoku said.

"Indeed. You don't open up to people so easily. It's not so bad, isn't it? Now run along and freshen up while Rengoku and I discuss hashira matters." Shinobu chimed in.

"Yes K-Kocho-sama. S-See you soon, Rengoku-sama." Yuki watched the Insect and flame hashiras head inside to her room to discuss business. On his part, he took his master's advice and took some time to relax with a bath.

After the meeting between the pillars had concluded, Yuki and the butterfly girls waved goodbye and ,made their way to the dinning room for lunch. Today's menu was grilled fish and rice, along with steamed vegetables. They thank Aoi for the food and began eating.

"So, how was your hike on Mount Sagiri, Shinobu-sama? Aoi asked.

"It was rather pleasant. I for one had a lovely time relaxing and enjoying the scenery. Don't you agree, Subachi-kun?" Shinobu asked sweetly.

"I did all the jogging but yes, I'm happy you enjoyed yourself today." Yuki replied bluntly. The girls giggled except for Kanao.

"Oh Tāke-kun, you're still ever so direct. Did you at least make it to the top this time?" Aoi looked up at him.

"I saw the tip of the mountain." He responded sheepishly,

"His stamina improved. But I ended up carrying him the rest of the way. He was so obedient, just like a damsel in distress." she teased.

"Honestly, you're too easy on him. What boy wouldn't pass on a chance to be carried by a woman as strong and pretty as you, shinobu-sama?" Aoi sighed

"It's not like that. Aoi-chan. I was exhausted." He was defensive.

"Did you at least offer to carry her down?" Aoi asked. He shook his head.

"A true gentleman would at least offer, Gakusei-kun" Kanao quipped.

"We wanna be carried too, Tāke-kun." The triplets pleaded unanimously.

"All three of you?!" He exclaimed.

"You can do it!" Sumi said

"You've gotten stronger!" Kiyo replied.

"Surely we're lighter than miss Shinobu." Naho said

"Yuki was flustered over the last remark. No one saw it coming but he felt a sense of dread when the women at the table looked at him. He looked around anxiously.

"Do you think Shinobu-sama is heavy? Aoi raised her eyebrow.

Shinobu simply smiled, though he could feel tension within the air as her face darkened ever so slightly. He gulped and looked at the triplets, who were blissfully unaware over what was about to unfold. He conformed inwards and looked around.

"N-no, not at all. I've never had an issue with her weight." He looked away from their stares.

"Don't look away. Are you telling the truth?" Shinobu asked calmly. Her undertone carried a hint of authority and skepticism.

"I-i mean it. Youre as light as a feather" Yuki pleaded.

"I'm just teasing you. Thank you for the compliment." Shinobu widened her smiled and replied sincerely. The rest of the girls giggled.

"It's not funny." The former heir pouted.

"Then don't give in so easily." Kanao stated bluntly.

"She's right. You make it way too easy to poke fun of you." Aoi chimed in.

"Now, now. I think we had our fun teasing the poor boy. Let's finish our meal. Tāke-kun will be learning the first Insect breathing technique as of today." Shinobu declared. Everyone at the table cheered and wished him the best of luck. Yuki finally calmed down and resumed eating in silence.

Once the night sky filled the forest, the dull eye boy searched for the insect pillar. He found her in front of the gates, with her back turned to him. She stopped him once he got close to her.

"Subachi-kun, could you lean over to meet me at eye level?" The insect pillar asked politely yet firmly.

"Sure" he responded as he sat on his knees. He was cautious over what his master had to say.

"How do you feel about me as your teacher. Answer honestly." She asked with a low tone.

"I-i like you a lot. In that…you've been so kind for looking after me and Haruno-san. Even though I've never done anything like this before, I'm thankful you haven't been too harsh on me." Yuki said

"I saw how you were with Rengoku-san. How you two hit it off so easily. I suppose that's just his personality, but it got me thinking. If you'd like, I can put in a good word for you and have him be your sensei instead. Would you like that, Yuki-kun?" Shinobu asked

The lanky student froze right then and there. He reflected his interaction with the flame pillar and realized Shinobu was right. He opened up to Rengoku easier than to anyone in his life. He thought long and hard since this decision shouldn't be done lightly. Once he had cleared his mind, he voiced his opinion.

"I'll always be grateful to mister rengoku for saving me. However, you saved me at my lowest. I ran away from you twice and for what? I still can't believe my own mother gave up on me. I was such a coward I said my goodbyes in a letter!" the former heir raised his voice, choked up on his words.

"You didn't answer the question." Shinobu clarified

"I'm sorry for my outburst but, no. I'm committed to being your student through and through." The lanky student affirms. He was caught off guard when she turned around. Her smiled shined as brightly as the moonlight.

"I must apologize for what may have felt like an interrogation. I have been focused on training kanao and attending my duties simultaneously, it doesn't excuse my error for overlooking you. With that said, I've seen your progress when I can and, I'm proud of you for mastering total concentration breathing. Even though you whine and your face shows it's disproval clear as day, you're making strides to become a competent demon slayer. Which is why I believe I can entrust you with the first Insect breathing technique. Are you ready, Subachi-kun?" she asked calmly as she placed her hands on his shoulders.

"I'm ready." He nodded

"Good, stand back, follow me." The violet haired woman instructed.

He obediently steps back and walks from behind as she lead the walked for some time until they the reached the outskirts of an abandoned village. Shinobu ensures her students safety by keeping him within her reach.

"What happened here? Where is everyone? He asked

"They've been killed or chased away sometime ago. This village has become a hideout for demons." Shinobu answered

"But, why? Yuki asked as she turned to him with a solemn eyes.

Demons are vile creatures that will do anything to devour humans if it means they can live for another day." Shinobu spat her words like venom, causing the lean student to flinch.

"I-i thought you believed in befriending demons, kocho-sama." The former heir tilts his head. Shinobu had silently cursed herself for her slip-up.

I do. Yet, this case is exceptional because the village were at had close ties to the butterfly mansion. Namely the flower hashira had a pact with the leaders here. Since my succession, the demons successfully rampage this village while I was away on a mission.

"G-good thing this place isn't too close to home. Otherwise these demons would raid us too." Yuki chuckled in an effort to lighten the mood.

"I appreciate your optimism. However, I must avenge this village swiftly as possible. For the flower hashira's sake." She tiptoed in order to pat his back better. He giggled in return.

"I just thought you needed to hear that." He flustered.

"Let's focus on the task at hand." Shinobu nodded.

He nodded and looked around. He couldn't believe what he was seeing. What was once a thriving village now reduced to rubble. Homes crumbled at their very feet. Interiors infested with dust and cobwebs. Any signs that remained in one piece had since faded near invisible. He trembled over his fear of encountering a demon along with his condolences with the village and those who may have lost their lives during the incident.

"I just realized I won't be much help without a sword." Yuki said aloud.

"Heh, I guess I must've forgotten." She chuckled. He failed to have noticed a glint on her lavender eyes.

Before he could rebuttal, the loud crash interrupted their banter. What emerged from the destruction was a demon. This demon was average height, wearing a faded green kimono. It's physique was malnourished, even by demon standards. It's skin was ghoulish white along with pure black eyes. What made this demon stood was its hands were replaced with axes.

"Well, well, what do we have here? A wimpy boy all by himself." The demon snickered.

"I-I'm not alone. I'm with-" paused when he turned his head, realizing Shinobu was no longer with him. He began to panic.

"Sucks to be you. Don't worry, I prefer to kill my prey quickly." The axe demon smirked as he readied his strike. The dark hair teen on the hand, felt his legs tremble as he tried to run away. He took a few steps back before losing balance and landed on his butt.

"You're going to regret this!" the slim student snapped.

"All I regret is settling with you to be my meal. Look at you. Nothing but skin and bones. But, beggers can't be choosers." The demon licked his lips as he charged forward.

"MASTER! HELP ME!" Yuki screamed desperately while raising his arms

"Moshi Moshi." A feminine voice spoke aloud. Both the demon and the former heir looked up at a nearby roof.

"Who are you?" the demon asked

"It's such a lovely night isn't it. Why do you ruin the moment with your grotesque existence?" she asked innocently.

"I'm tired. I'm hungry. And I prefer to kill my meals quickly. Unless you want to be my next victim." the demon snarled.

"Then it's clear we aren't able to become friends. A pity, since I understand the necessity of being well fed. A right I'm sure you've depraved from plenty of humans to have gained those hands of yours." The Insect pillar's face darkened despite maintaining her smile.

"I tire of listening to your voice. How about you come down here and back your words against my blades!" the demon turns his body towards her as went straight to the house she stood on. Yuki in the meanwhile, remained in place cowering in fear.

She lept off the roof and looks below as the axe demon commenced chopping down the pillars of the building. She charged forward the second the demon looked up at her. Stung him multiple tine the moment he lowered his guard.

Insect breathing: Dance of the butterfly: Caprice!

The axe demon was in a trance over the spectacle he just felt. He looked down at his hand, spotted a butterfly on the tip of his hand while being surrounded by them .

"Why should I care about some stupid bug? They were lower than me when I was a human." He snarled. It was then he snapped back to reality, spotting the violet eyed hashira.

"Hahaha, was that the best you could do?! A little bit of poking? No wonder you couldn't protect this village. You can't chop my head off, can you? I'll eat good tonight." He continued while crossing his arms in a "X" position. Unfortunately, he felt his arms strain to the point of becoming immobile. His whole body followed suit and his voice kept breaking.

"What…did…you do…to me…woman?!" he contorted into an unnatural shape and collapsed onto the ground.

"Just because butterflies don't have stingers doesn't make them harmless. I might not be able to behead demons, but I can still pull my weight thanks to the wisteria poison I concocted. It's quite original, wouldn't you say? Not that your input will change anything since you're already dead." She giggled.

Yuki was amazed by the showdown and how Shinobu effortlessly slayed the demon. He blushed every so lightly as he looked up at her

"That was amazing, miss Shinobu. You looked so cool and pretty while killing that demon." Yuki was ecstatic while jumping up and down. Her lips creased slightly before displaying a neutral expression.

"How did it feel being defenseless? Without a weapon or me by your side?" She asked with her back turned to him.

"It felt…terrible. I felt…useless" Yuki took deep breathes to weather down his hyperventilating.

"Did it hurt more, being saved by a woman?" The violet eyed woman spoke softly.

"No course not. It shouldn't matter who is the rescuer is, as long as people are safe." His voice filled with certainty.

That's good. Forgive me for digressing with that last question. However, the truth is I intentionally brought you here unequipped. I wanted you to familiarize the feeling of helplessness. The feeling innocents hold when they don't have the proper weapons, let alone trained in the ways of the sword. People look up to us when we come to their aid because demons can come from anywhere. If we don't stop the demons from harming the innocent, who will? I won't lie, since your stature is bigger than the average person. People will expect more from you" She glanced at her student.

"I guess, but it doesn't make it less scary. I thought you abandoned me." Tears began to form in his brown eyes while trembling on the ground.

"Don't cry, my little bee. Nobles shouldn't cry or else they lose the faith of their people." She spoke warmly. The Insect hashira then crouched to meet his eyes as she placed her hands on his shoulder.

"As your teacher, I will never abandon you, Subachi-kun. I promise." She continued, her voice filled with determination.

Once he nodded, the petite woman helped bring her scrawny student back on his feet. He follows her by her side as they began leaving the abandon village.

"I hope you took note on how I pulled off my first breathing technique, because that's exactly how you'll need to perform if you want to advance to the second form." She replied.

"Y-yes, M-miss Shinobu." Yuki stammered, scratching the back of his simultaneously.

"On another note, I didn't want to embarrass in front of the others, but you really need to do better speaking Japanese. It's a bit embarrassing we are picking up English faster when you're the one in need of learning the native language. Do you understand?" she replied firmly yet tenderly.

"Yes Kocho-sama. I'll do better when you put it like that." The former heir conceded and lowered his head. He felt embarrassed over this call out and wanted to hide in his room.

The next day, he got up early for his morning drills. He buttoned up his demon slayer uniform and put on his yellow haori. The sun had barely risen by the time he fixed his bed in order to head out. His movements were still sluggish, resulted in knocking his head on the door as per usual.

"Stupid door." Yuki grumbled, rubbing his forehead and began with push ups. Afterwards, he got up and jogged around the borders of the Insect pillar's territory. He was panting from exhaustion by the time he made it halfway around but decided to take his time walking the remainder of the route. The dull eye boy observed the the wilderness surrounding him and felt at peace. He'd always prefer the sound of crashing waves, smacking the rocks within his family's personal beach. The warm sand under his feet when the Subachi's needed time off from their business. The wind blowing against them wherever they went. Yet, he found the calmness of the forest to have its perks. There were more friendly animals around here than the ones at the ocean. It helped being in the forest since it meant more shade here than at the coast.

His pocket watch read 8 am by the time he had returned safely to the butterfly estate.

"Konichiwa, Subachi-kun. Dō yatte neta no?" Shinobu asked sweetly. He recalled the last time she met him at this very spot and was relieved she wasn't angry this time.

"um, ohayo, Kocho-sama. Yoiichin…ichiwo… o… sugo…shi kudasai." Yuki read aloud from his note card. He didn't noticed Shinobu cringing over him butchering his wording.

"How ever did he manage to get this far without learning basic Japanese?" She screamed internally.

"Hmm?" he leaned over to look at her better.

"It's nothing. The important thing is you're putting in the effort to take my advice to heart." She said cheerfully.

"Yep, I bet my papa and sister will be proud when I show off my Japanese. And how my breathing is on par with a whale." He declared proudly.

Keep up the good work and optimism, Take-kun." The Insect hashira responded happily, despite feelings a sense of concern of how much she needed to teach him. She collected her thoughts and led him inside the dojo.

"Now then, before we start, I need to see your swordsmanship." She said as she offered him a wooden sword.

"This is average size? It seems kind of small." Yuki expressed his concern.

"Maybe so, but until we build you a more suitable sword, we'll make do with what we have. For now, prepare to face me." Her violet eyes darkened as she readied herself.

He was nervous, but got into a stance. He bended his knees, making sure they went over the toes, placed his right foot forward an see turned it while shifting his left foot back. Shinobu shifted her legs slightly and drew her wooden sword. The fight has commenced. He lunged his sword forward with all his strength, yet to no avail. The Insect hashira disappeared in the blink of an eye. In an instant, he felt a sharp pain on his shoulder. He turned around, seeing his teacher leaped to have gotten the first hit. He winced and fought against his tears.

"First point goes to me. Try to keep up." The Insect hashira chuckled and stepped back. Yuki lifted his dominant foot in the air momentarily to slam it firmly, followed by unleashing a second thrust. The attack missed again, giving Shinobu an opportunity to hit his waist.

"You aren't abiding the rules, Kocho-sama!" he yelled.

"Don't loose your temper, we've only just begun." She said calmly and tries to read his next move.

The lanky student lunged once more but this time he doesn't blink. She sidestepped his attack but this time he caught a glimpse of her evasion. He faced her direction and successfully parried her strike.

"Oh, you caught on with my movements? I must say, that's impressive." She applauded and then steps back. Shinobu had not anticipated her student reading her in a short amount of time. She takes light steps as she goes on the offensive. Yuki keeps his eyes on her and blocks her attacks. He steps back and forth accordingly to prevent her from striking him further. He felt his arm grow tired, but refused to give up. Not after he felt he had an advantage against his teacher. The former heir decided to go all out with one more thrust. His decision to blink cost him dearly for he had lost track of Shinobu and felt a multitude of jabs poking his body.

"That's a wrap, Tāke-kun. Thank you for the assessment." She spoke kindly. The brown eye boy wheezed with his hands on his knees.

"That wasn't fair. You didn't play follow the rules for fencing." Yuki huffed.

"I don't recall this being sparring session unique to fencing. I simply wanted to see how you handle a sword." She explained calmly. He looked at her with piercing eyes and then looks away in shame.

Gomenasai, Kocho-sama." He muttered.

"Subachi-kun, you need to realize being a demon slayer is by no means conventional. Our cause is unconventional. The demon we fight are unconventional by normal standards. Perhaps I should've worded myself better. But, it doesn't change that you need to prepare for even the slightest change in any scenario. Demons have supernatural abilities, therefore they'll fight dirty when they can. Do you understand?" Her voice filled with concern. The dull eye teen looked at her, his eyes filled with remorse.

"Yes, Kocho-ssama. I'm sorry." He spoke softly.

She wanted to scold him, but she felt conflicted because she picked up something off about him. She couldn't put her finger on it, yet she couldn't train him the same way she taught kanao. He needed extra support.

"It's okay. Perhaps it's an old habit of yours being used to everything going your way. You won't get far acting spoiled." She chuckles.

"You're... not completely wrong" he looked away.

"Teasing aside, after assessing your swordsmanship, I have to say, you're surprisingly capable. Did you practice fencing by chance?" Shinobu asked.

"Yes actually. My papa taught my sister and I how to fence. I wasn't very good at striking, but my defense and parries were my forte. If only I brought my actual sword instead of the wooden sticks" he made an embarrassed chuckled as he scratched the back of his head.

"I couldn't agree more. Your attacks are sloppy and your form could improve, but when you were stellar on the defense, you kept up with my strikes and nearly knocked out sword away." Shinobu said.

"Wow, that's crazy." Yuki exclaimed.

On top of that, all his attacks displayed such sheer force. With time, he could rival a hashira in no time." She thought to herself

"You have ways to go, however my faith in you hasn't wavered, my little bumblebee. Let's go over some drills for lunges and jabs. Plus the basics of slashing since you have the ability to behead demons. Ready?" she continued.

"Let's do this". Yuki expressed enthusiastically.

Upon Shinobu's request, Aoi brought lunch for Shinobu and Yuki. Once they had finish eating, she demonstrates how to hold a sword, launching several jabs at once, and spacing oneself after delivering the attacks. She noted her student knew how to fight similarly to her style, which she couldn't have asked for more in a field where everyone fought the traditional way.

Despite this, she knew it was only fair to show Yuki how to fight the standard way in case of emergencies. As a doctor and a skilled strategist, she was always prepared for nearly every scenario and wanted the same for him. Their training session went on for three hours, she figured it was time to conclude today's session.

"Subachi-kun, I believe it would do you good to practice with two swords. Allow me to end this session showing you the first breathing technique once more." Shinobu said.

She goes to an unharmed dummy then took a few steps back. She then leap into the air and charged forward striking several jabs at once. The dummy falls down with several slashes on it. She bows politely to the former heir and heads out.

Yuki was amazed with his teachers speed and grace and wondered how a woman as petite and frail looking as her became one of the strongest swordsman around. He attempts to try replicating her first breathing technique. By the end of his attempts, he was only able to slash the dummies one at a time before landing on the floor. He was frustrated he couldn't do it right away, but he acknowledged they were training for a while, so it would do him good to take a break. Once he put away all the equipment, he catches up to Aoi and the butterfly triplets and asked if they needed help bringing down or stock medical supplies.

Two months later, the last Sunday of May, he ran up Mount Nagiri on a rainy day, carrying the Insect hashira on his back.

"Miss Shinobu, what's the point of you coming along if all you do is sleep?" he complained.

"Well, this is your training, not mine. Besides, who wouldn't enjoy the warmth of a big strong boy like yourself, who could effortlessly carry someone on their back" she yawns while teasing him

"I wish I could ride on someone's back." He grumbled as he ascends further up.

"If you ask nicely, maybe the stone hashira can give you just that." Shinobu giggles as her student gives her a disgusted look.

Unlike previous days where the morning fog clouded his vision, there was nothing to stop him and thanks to his overall training, he had no issue carrying the petite woman at this point. In the past, he would've been annoyed of his teacher sleeping on his back. Now, her steady breathing was an affirmation of the trust they have as student and teacher.

At long last, they had finally arrived to the top of the mountain, without Shinobu's assistance. He looked around and saw the forests as clearly as he could. He took in a deep breath of the pure air around them.

"Miss Shinobu, I did it. We're on top of the mountain." Yuki yelled.

"Oh, here I thought I could sleep in longer." She looked at him groggily. He became flustered as he placed her down gently.

"Sorry." He whispers.

"No need. I'm proud of you for reaching here without my help. You know what this means?" Shinobu offered him a chalkstick.

"Yay!" the former heir accepts it and inscribed his name right next to hers on the pole.

"I can't believe it took two months to finally conquer this mountain." Yuki shouted to the world.

"That's great. I hope you've been dedicated to your sword practices too because I want to see you apply the first Insect breathing form against a real demon. Don't fret, I'll find a weak one for you." She spoke soothingly for she knew her student would get riled up easily.

"I see. Well, you'll be happy to know I have been keeping up." Yuki spoke with confidence.

"Then I expect good results. Now, please carry me down, my little bumblebee." She chuckled then waited for Yuki to squat so she could climb on his back. Once she was secured comfortably, the dull eyed boy began his descending down from Mount Sagiri.

By sunset, Shinobu and Yuki finished checking up on several patients within the butterfly mansion. Once everyone had been accounted and looked after, they were ready to venture out for demon hunting. He ran on the ground while she traveled by tree. They arrive at the same abandon village a couple months back and spotted a demon eating a squirrel. She tugged Yuki's sleeve and led him to a roof. She tells him to wait for to strike first to follow up. He grips his hand on the spare katana she gave him and nodded.

"Moshi moshi. I know you're a demon and all, but surely you could do better than eat innocent animals. Honestly, it's kinda pathetic and you have my pity." Shinobu gave a soft smile. The demon snarled at her. She lunged down and jabs him several times.

"What was the point of that? I didn't feel a thing." The demon demanded.

"I'm not the one dealing the final blow." Shinobu stated.

"Huh?" It replied in confusion

"Insect breathing: First form. Butterfly Dance: Caprice!" Yuki shouted as he leaps off the roof and drew out his swords. He plunges forward as swiftly as he could, striking the demon once with each blade.

The demon then found himself in a trance, whereas the last demon felt surrounded by butterflies, this one was swarmed with blue bees. Interestingly, they weren't trying to sting him but rather crawl all over him.

"Oh I get it. You're student and teacher. That explains you're both so weak!" the demon growls but felt his body freeze then burn with agony. He noticed his skin turning purple. Due to his fragile body, the demon fell immediately.

"Congratulations. You've mastered the first form of Insect breathing. I'm proud of you." She lips formed a smile as she went up to hug him. Yuki was caught off guard.

"Is it that big of a deal?" Yuki asked.

To become a great demon slayer, mastering the first form is the foundation for any breathing technique. There are still three more forms for you to learn, but this is a moment worth celebrating." She gave him a kiss on the forehead.

"Miss Shinobu, what was that for?" the dull-eyed boys face turned bright red.

"I told you, this is a monumental moment for us. This is the least I can do for you. Would you mind carrying on your back?" she giggles. He rolls his eyes but placed her behind and and waited for violet eyed woman to wrap her arms around his neck before taking off.

"You're lucky you're not heavy" Yuki sighed

"You shouldn't bring up a woman's weight into a conversation for no reason." Shinobu scolded lightly.

"Sorry." He conceded and hurried back to the butterfly mansion.

"Hi everyone. Welcome back to the newest segment of Taisho era. With me today I have the man who needs no introductions...please welcome Mister Rengoku Kyojuro." Yuki clapped.

"Thanks for inviting me. Allow me to share my thoughts: Subachi-kun is filled with insecurities, despite his stature and strength. Even so, if Kocho-chan and Oyakata-sama have faith in the boy, then I will trust their judgment. He's got heart and potential within him. He just needs to believe in himself. Now that that's over, how about we head out for some good tempura. My treat." The flame hashira replied.

Of course, but first, next time on chapter 11: I'll be learning the second insect breathing and... we're getting another hashira?! That's so soon. I hope to get along with them too. Wait up, Rengoku-sama." The lanky child pleaded as he caught up with him.

WanderingTree here,

So, I don't know what happened this month but I litterally had no clue how to write this chapter. In fact, it was really only this week that I was able to come up with all this. Even so, I'm quite satisfied with the overall content this update offers. This chapter and the past few will recieve some edits. Yay

Moving on, I enjoyed much of this season of demon slayer since its enjoyable and gives me ideas for this fanfic. This was also the one week i didn't draw since I frantically wanted to post something before the end of the month. June went by fast.

In terms of content. I hope people are accepting of shinobu and yuki being together. At least as student and mentor for now. I hope this chapter showcases that my OC isn't a mary sue. He's got his struggles in both demon slaying and as a person, but he'll grow in time. Speaking of time, I want to end the 2 year time skip by the end of this fanfic's one year anniversary, which is october. I already have an idea how to get these next few chapters done. For now, the center of attention will be focused on Muichiro. It was kind of a challenge writing about Rengoku and how he'd interact with Yuki, but I think I did a decent job keeping him in character. The goal for the next chapter is to focus a bit more on the more slice of life stuff AND not wait last minute to work on said chapter.

Thanks for reading my rant. Hope you all have a good day.

Edit 7/25/24: Phew, I finally went back to edit this chapter. The only reason it took this long is because I convinced myself the next chapter would be shorter than this. Boy was I wrong. Regardless, I'll end this by sharing this neat little fact: This was the first and only chapter where I wrote the entire thing on a tablet. I bought a keyboard adn typed away. Unfortunately it gave me issues towards the end, so i ended up returning it. I have more to say on the next chapter.

Edited: 11/19/24