Enma returned in high spirits.
But not to the Underworld—to Wano Island on Sea Star. She was going to see Mihawk.
Enma was serious about popularizing the "Demon swordsman."
It felt like she had found a new calling.
After all, she was the first Demon God in history and the progenitor of the Crying Demon Swordsmen.
As for the Sea Star Underworld, she considered it Father's domain. She merely guarded and managed it on his behalf.
Though she had already handed most affairs over to Abe no Seimei, Hagoromo Ōtsutsuki, Ymir, and the others.
Meanwhile.
Night fell, and moonlight spilled in clear radiance.
The countless lights of the Flower Capital gradually came alive.
Mihawk, dressed in a black-and-red kimono, was in the banquet hall of Shogun Castle.
He was hosting Kamikaze, Amane, and Zanbai, who had just arrived on Wano Island.
As well as Iaian, Bushidrill, Kamikaze's Disciple, Uta, and Okamaitachi.
Their disciples and children.
Yami Tsukahara, Yami-hime, Roronoa Arashi, and Muichiro Tokito accompanied them from the side.
In one corner, four highly skilled geisha played shamisen, zithers, biwas, and other instruments.
Their melodious Japanese-style music filled every corner of the hall.
Yet it did not interfere with the guests' conversations.
After several rounds of wine and dishes.
Mihawk finished the customary pleasantries, set down his cup, and brought up the real matter.
"Mr. Kamikaze, I have decided to grant you the position of Elder."
"While your sword techniques have reached the ninth rank in terms of finesse, your overall strength should only be at the eighth-rank level."
"Of course, it would be another matter if you used that Sun Holy Blade."
"But I would prefer for you to reach the ninth rank entirely through your own strength."
The Martial Artist Association's rank structure was modeled entirely after Swordmaster Hall.