Xia Xi did not quite process it at first.
Old Geezer, who always cared so much about his dignity as a senior and kept up appearances.
Had actually come to him for private tutoring, shamelessly enough.
"This isn't like you, Shinjuro."
The Flame Hashira's expression turned rather peculiar.
He had clearly agonized over it for a long time before muttering what sounded like a complaint.
"Why did you only teach that brat Uzui... and not me?"
"I was the one who learned the [Bright Red Nichirin Blade] first, too!"
Xia Xi: ?
He felt that Old Geezer was starting to get hung up on some rather bizarre things.
Only after Xia Xi questioned him repeatedly.
Did he finally understand why Shinjuro cared so much about this.
The reason was the last Nine Hashira Meeting, which Xia Xi had not attended.
Although Xia Xi, the meddler, had not been there afterward to urge everyone to hold the [Third Nine Hashira Ladder Tournament].
The Hashira had already grown accustomed to camping near Oyakata-sama's home after meetings.
And sparring a little while they were at it.
Several of the more energetic Hashira, such as Tengen, Shinjuro, and Gyomei.
Had privately sparred a few more times.
Well... these were quick casual matches, not any formal ranked competition.
Except this time...
Uzui had really distinguished himself.
He had successively defeated Kazetoriin, who was not particularly eager to fight, Kanae, who ranked at the bottom in strength, and the newly appointed Sabito.
He had even come within a hair of taking down Old Geezer Shinjuro.
"That brat."
"His Breathing Style and raw strength are both far below mine."
"But he nearly beat me anyway with that [Transparent World] thing."
If his opponent had merely beaten him by using this so-called Supreme Territory while he himself had