When she got a clear look at the black-haired boy standing at the end of the herb rows and the distinctive dark blue haori he wore, the smile on Chizuru's face instantly vanished, replaced by utter shock and unconcealed reverence.
"K-Kai Hashira, sir!"
"Chizuru, leader of Logistics Group Two of the Kakushi Corps, reporting to the Kai Hashira!" Chizuru's voice grew somewhat shrill with excitement, even trembling slightly, and then she jumped up to strike the Praise the Sun pose. Seeing this, the Kakushi Corps newcomers around her followed suit.
He took a deep breath, making his voice sound as steady and cold as possible as he resumed the awe-inspiring bearing of the Kai Hashira. "Stop, Chizuru. I'm not here for an inspection. There's no need for such a grand salute."
"Yes! Thank you, Kai Hashira, sir!" Chizuru carefully straightened up, but kept her head lowered.
Tanjiro walked over as well. Looking at Chizuru, he said gently, "Hello, Chizuru. I'm Tanjiro Kamado. Mr. Goto told us you once mentioned something about the cherry tree in the Butterfly Mansion's courtyard, so we came specifically to ask you about it."
"The ch-cherry tree?" Chizuru froze for a moment. She clearly hadn't expected the illustrious Kai Hashira to come in person just to ask about a tree. She raised her head and stole a glance at Rokuya, only to find him staring at her with an extremely complicated, deep gaze. It made her nervous again.
"Y-yes, Kai Hashira, sir. I do know who planted that cherry tree." Chizuru swallowed and stammered, "Wh-why have you suddenly taken an interest in that tree?"
"That isn't for you to ask." Rokuya cut her off, his tone carrying a hint of unquestionable firmness. "You only need to tell me who planted it and why she planted it."