Chapter 45: DSWS: Chapter 45
"Companions"
Wiping away his tears, Tanjiro threw the bells at Aoki's feet. "We're leaving together. We'll retake the Final Selection next year."
"We're leaving together!" Zenitsu and Inosuke declared.
Aoki picked up the bells, his gaze turning cold. "Are you sure?"
"Yes!" the three replied resolutely.
Aoki's expression shifted to a bright smile. "Then, all three of you stay."
The trio, Shinobu Kocho, and the others were stunned.
"Senior Aoki, what did you say?" Tanjiro asked, unsure if he'd misheard.
Aoki confirmed, "You heard correctly. All three of you stay."
"Why?" Tanjiro asked. "One of us had to leave. Why can we all stay?"
Aoki found Tanjiro's naiveté amusing. "Tanjiro, don't you see? This was a test. I wanted to see if you valued your companions. While not perfect, your dedication to your comrades allows you to pass."
Tanjiro stood dumbfounded.
Aoki sighed. "This was a test of your loyalty to your companions. You passed. I said failure meant expulsion, but I have no authority to expel anyone. Failing only means losing an excellent captain."
Tanjiro understood, exclaiming, "Really? We can all stay?"
Aoki placed a hand on Tanjiro's head. "Tanjiro, remember, companions are precious, even more so than lovers or family. Those who risk their lives for their comrades might be called fools, but those who don't even try are far worse. Never forget your bonds as companions."
"Like you love Nezuko. Don't just love Nezuko as Nezuko. Love all your companions and family as you love Nezuko. Like me, I may beat you up, but I care for you. I was worried sick when I heard about Natagumo Mountain."
Tanjiro nodded firmly. "Yes! Senior Aoki, I'll remember your words! Even if I die, I will uphold them!"
Aoki, remembering something, produced the Flying Thunder God kunai Tanjiro had dropped.
Handing it to Tanjiro, he said, "Let this represent our bond. No matter the distance, I can instantly reach you. Don't lose it again."
"I understand!" Tanjiro vowed never to lose it again.
"Tanjiro and Inosuke, rest. Your injuries prevent missions. Wait until tomorrow." Aoki pulled Zenitsu aside.
Aoki took a deep breath, his voice heavy. "Zenitsu, I need your advice. You seem to be the only one who can help."
Zenitsu, sweating profusely, asked nervously, "What… what is it?"
Aoki grabbed Zenitsu's shoulders, his tone pleading. "I like a girl, but I lack the courage to confess. You're a supposed expert. Tell me what to do."
Zenitsu was stunned, then smirked. "Even a Hashira has this problem? But why should I help you?"
"See Nezuko's bamboo mouthpiece? I'll remove it for you."
"Deal!"
They shook hands. Then, a soft yet chilling voice echoed.
"What are you two whispering about?"
Shinobu Kocho stood behind them.
"Kocho-san, haha, what a coincidence," Aoki stammered internally, Did she hear? No! Did she hear? I don't know!
Shinobu Kocho pointed at the scattered leaves. "Aoki-kun, those are the results of your swordsmanship. I had the mansion cleaned just two days ago. I'm not asking for a complete cleaning, but at least pick up the leaves."
"I will! Absolutely!" Aoki sprinted off, picking up leaves, ignoring Zenitsu's dumbfounded stare.
Zenitsu's thoughts: Why her? She's a Hashira, so it's fine, but… why her? Don't ask how I know. He's too obvious. A straight man through and through.
Aoki, oblivious to Zenitsu's thoughts, enthusiastically continued cleaning, even recruiting Zenitsu.
Zenitsu: "Oh, what to do…"
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