Every Swordsman from the Northern Region who had trained at Kūmachiza knew what the characters in his eyes meant.
"Lower Rank..."
Tomioka's voice trembled slightly.
They were always hearing Xia Xi boast about how formidable the Twelve Kizuki were.
Now, seeing one for the first time, they felt an unprecedentedly heavy pressure bearing down on them.
Even the normally forceful Dingqi fell silent.
"Good thing he's only a Lower Rank."
Only Kozō could still manage a smile.
"If we lose, those guys at the dojo will be attending our funeral feast. If we win, we're sure to shoot up several ranks.
"Besides, Yukisō Vice-Captain is here too."
Persimmon's breathing grew a little heavier as well.
"Kozō is right. If he's only Lower Five... we might have a chance."
In truth, she was not confident either.
But as vice captain, she could hardly say anything discouraging at a time like this.
A Lower Rank...
When she had first arrived at Kūmachiza, Xia Xi had demonstrated the strength of a [standard] Lower Rank for her.
She had not really understood what he meant by an Energy Level of 300.
But that time, Xia Xi had defeated her decisively through physical fitness alone, without using any techniques or Breathing Styles.
Back then, she had been able to exchange a few blows with him.
But even giving it everything she had, she could not defeat him.
What about now...
"Lower Rank Five, Men Shou."
The demon-or rather, Lower Five-gave a slight nod.
He even showed a measure of courtesy. "You can take pride in forcing me to open my eyes."
"Cut the crap."
Dingqi gritted her teeth and tightened her grip on her sword hilt.
"You're just a Lower Rank. What's so great about that!"
"Dingqi." Seiko interrupted her, her voice surprisingly calm. "Our