Kyoraku's challenge

Shunsui Kyoraku shook the empty sake flask, his face relaxed with the pleasant glow of a light buzz.

"Good sake, good conversation." Smiling, Shunsui Kyoraku set the empty flask aside and casually clapped his hands. "But just drinking and chatting feels like something's missing. Starrk, since the weather's so nice today and we're both in good spirits—"

He paused, a playful, probing gleam flashing in his eyes. His tone remained light, but an unmistakable seriousness entered it. "Interested in—stretching your legs a little? Let me see how a legendary Vasto Lorde actually fights.

"Just a spar, of course. We'll stop short of hurting each other. Nothing more."

His challenge was no spur-of-the-moment whim.

Observation meant watching not only everyday behavior, but also critical moments—especially in battle.

His opponent's reactions, how he used his power, his fighting style, even his hidden instincts—those would provide the most reliable evidence.

Old Man Yamamoto's assignment involved more than chatting over drinks.

There was neither surprise nor reluctance in Starrk's eyes, as though being asked to "sunbathe together" or "have a little

"spar" made little difference to him.

Finally, he slowly set down the empty sake cup he had been toying with and answered, "...Sure."

The smile in Shunsui Kyoraku's eyes deepened. He was about to settle the location and rules when a familiar voice suddenly came from the courtyard entrance. "A spar? Not a bad idea."

Liu Chuan had appeared there at some point, his hands tucked casually into his pockets and a look of interest on his face.

He walked over, his gaze passing between Shunsui Kyoraku and Starrk before settling on the former. "Feeling lively today, Captain Kyōraku? You've only just dropped by, and you're already challenging my 'bodyguard'?"

"Oh, dear, Captain Liu Chuan. Eavesdropping is a bad habit." Shunsui Kyoraku remained