The next day.
Before beginning the preliminary treatment, as a gesture of thanks to Xia Xi.
Tanjuro intended to first demonstrate the [Hinokami Kagura] that interested Xia Xi most.
After all, as the charcoal seller saw it.
The biggest reason Xia Xi was willing to help him so much was this art the Kamado family had inherited from ancient times.
He owned nothing of value, and as for what he could offer in return right now.
It seemed he could only start by demonstrating this unusual [Hinokami Breathing Style].
They went near the flat clearing where Tanjuro usually performed his New Year rites.
The winter snow had not completely melted.
And since it was early morning, the cold chilled their throats with every breath.
Yet Tanjuro, despite his frail body.
Showed none of his usual weakness on his face at that moment.
Without anyone noticing, his breathing rhythm had already begun to change.
Just as it did when he worshipped the fire god in winters past.
Whenever Kagura's breathing began flowing and circulating within him.
Tanjuro's demeanor would turn serious and solemn.
Even if today was only a demonstration for Xia Xi.
Xia Xi reminded him from the side, "Kamado, you don't need to push yourself too hard."
Tanjuro nodded.
Then he drew a deep breath.
White mist slowly escaped between his teeth.
It was a method of breathing.
From hundreds of years ago.
The unique breathing method of the strongest man of the Sengoku Period.
Through the changing years and the shifting sands of time.
It had quietly passed down, generation after generation, through this family of charcoal sellers in a remote mountain village.
His heart, his blood, every inch of muscle...
All gradually began to awaken under Tanjuro's focused will.
The immense lung capacity evident in his inhalations