"The Master has arrived-"
At the gentle announcement of the Master Kagaya Ubuyashiki's two daughters, the sliding door slowly opened.
Supported by his daughter, Kagaya Ubuyashiki walked beneath the eaves, his steps slow yet exceptionally steady. The purplish-red scars spreading across his face because of the curse looked somewhat hideous in the sunlight, but his smile remained as warm and accepting as a spring breeze.
"My dear children, thank you for coming on such short notice." Kagaya's voice was soft, yet it reached everyone's ears clearly, carrying a strange, soothing power.
"May you enjoy good health and a long life, Master! It is our honor to serve you!" Kyojuro Rengoku was the first to raise his head and return the greeting in a booming voice. The other Hashira bowed their heads in respect as well.
Kagaya smiled and nodded. Then his gaze turned toward the boy standing to one side beneath the eaves, who had not knelt like the Hashira but wore a deep blue haori and carried Shura on his back.
Takanashi Rokuno.
He stood there quietly, his posture straight, his short hair gleaming faintly in the sunlight. He deliberately released no aura, yet simply standing there, he seemed like an insurmountable mountain. His gaze was as sharp as a blade, but occasionally, when he looked at the Kocho sisters, a barely perceptible gentleness showed through.
"Rokuya," Kagaya called softly, "you should explain this matter to everyone yourself."
"Yes."
Rokuya nodded slightly and took a step forward out of the shadows. As he moved, even the air currents in the courtyard seemed to shift subtly. The Hashira's gazes instantly converged on him, some filled with awe, others curiosity or confusion.
"I'll skip the needless talk and get straight to the point." Rokuya swept his gaze over every Hashira present,