Flower Capital.
The spring breeze was as warm as ever, and cherry blossoms filled the sky.
Sesshomaru walked through the bustling streets, ignoring the gazes of admiration and infatuation from both sides.
He slowly approached the golden gates beneath Shogun Castle at the far end of his sight.
Yes.
He had not gone to Higurashi Manor with Inuyasha, Kagome, and the others.
Nor did he wish to take part in the upcoming banquet.
Sesshomaru had always been this way. He disliked lively environments.
Compared to those things, he would rather enter Swordmaster Hall as soon as possible and study Sea Star's Swordsmanship.
Before long, he returned to the banquet hall of Shogun Castle and found Mihawk dressed in a kimono.
But this time, Gion was not by his side. He had clearly been waiting specifically for Sesshomaru.
"You're back?"
"Yes."
"Sit down for a drink, or shall we head to Swordmaster Hall now?"
Sesshomaru replied, "Compared to wine, blades are more interesting."
"Very good."
Mihawk set down his wine cup and rose to his feet, preparing to lead him to Swordmaster Hall.
But Sesshomaru looked at the Black Blade, Yoru. "Why aren't you bringing it?"
Mihawk glanced at him. "Won't need it." With that, he strode out of the hall.
Sesshomaru was somewhat puzzled, but he followed closely behind.
Swordmaster Hall was separated from Shogun Castle by only one street. It was close, though they still had to cross a bridge.
"I heard you want to become the chief of the Demon Race?"
Walking ahead without turning back, Mihawk asked the question. Sesshomaru answered just as calmly, "Yes."
"But didn't you say before that you wanted to participate in the next Top 100 Tournament?"
"Is there a conflict?" Sesshomaru paused, surprise in his eyes.
"Of course."
Mihawk stopped as well