"Lord Shimizu, we're almost there. Any Onmyoji in Kyoto Prefecture who has fulfilled their mission may choose to recuperate at Kiyotaki Sanatorium."
"There are currently forty-two Onmyoji at Kiyotaki Sanatorium. During my ten years in office, we have admitted ninety-eight in total. Those who passed away of old age were all buried on Chrysanthemum Mountain..."
Satake Shō humbly explained his accomplishments to Shimizu Shinichi, feeling a little stirred.
His excitement was understandable. He had never seen a smile like the one on Lord Shimizu's face on any other Chrysanthemum Guardian.
He knew whom that smile was for, and it gave him even greater confidence in his future.
"Oh, and when Ueda heard you were coming, Lord Shimizu, he specifically asked me to prepare a feast."
At that, Shimizu Shinichi finally spoke.
"After we parted all those years ago, I never expected to see Ueda again. Is he in good health?"
"Rest assured, Lord Shimizu. Everyone here receives regular physical examinations to ensure they remain healthy and can enjoy their twilight years in peace."
"Well done."
Shimizu Shinichi's praise broadened the smile on Satake Shō's face.
Sakamoto Taku, the Corpse Hounds' master who was leading the way, wanted to join the conversation but had no idea what to say. He could only keep his head down and guide them.
In truth, Satake Shō was not the only one who wanted to leave this place. Sakamoto Taku did too. In fact, every senior member of the Nine Chrysanthemum School in the valley wanted out.
The Nursing Home kept those old men trapped, but it trapped them as well.
Before, they had no opportunity and could only obey the organization's arrangements. Now that a chance was right before them, everyone wanted to try.
Sakamoto Taku had already decided that he would make sure