Musashi had clearly fallen into a state of excitement.
She had undoubtedly heard of Hozoin Inshun's illustrious name.
A peerless master spearman said to rival gods and Buddhas in spear technique, yet utterly indifferent to the world's opinion of him or to his own reputation; an unparalleled powerhouse who had spent his life living in the mountains, nearly without equal in his era—how could she not be excited upon meeting such a formidable opponent?
But—
She turned back to look at O-Nui, who seemed worried after sensing that something was off in the atmosphere, and Tasuke, who was biting his own finger.
Fujimaru Ritsuka, meanwhile, seemed long accustomed to such situations. With practiced ease, he led the two children back a short distance.
Musashi looked at Hozoin Inshun again.
Throughout all her previous travels, she had never encountered the living, breathing Hozoin Inshun. And now she had truly met him.
If O-Nui and Tasuke were not here—
No, that was not right. The situation was still unclear, so no matter what—
She stopped her instinctive attempt at provocation.
No matter what, they could not fight now.
More important than enjoying a battle against a powerful opponent was getting the two children safely home.
"Come to think of it, isn't Lord Inshun's age somewhat off for the current era of Lord Iemitsu's reign?"
Forcibly suppressing her desire to challenge a powerful foe, Musashi noticed something strange.
"Hmm? Ah, this monk is not presently alive. I am a Heroic Spirit inscribed upon the Throne, and what stands here is merely a Servant body used as a projection."
Hozoin Inshun also glanced at Tasuke and O-Nui before finally lowering his guard.
"Ah, I see. So Lord Inshun is in that sort of state."
Musashi nodded in understanding, also glancing at Fujimaru Ritsuka.
"Though