"I quite agree with your thinking, Rokuya," Kagaya said softly. "Every child who joins the Demon Slayer Corps is a swordsman I cherish. Originally, I had arranged for Shinobu Kocho to serve as the chief examiner for this selection."
"Shinobu?" Rokuya paused, then understood. It was probably because Kanao would be participating. That girl couldn't rest easy, so she had volunteered.
"However, since you've brought it up yourself, and your considerations reach further..." Kagaya smiled and set down his teacup. "Then I'll leave the role of chief examiner to you this time. I, too, would very much like to know just how far that boy who inherited Sun Breathing can go after a year under your instruction."
"Thank you, Oyakata-sama." Rokuya nodded.
"As for Shinobu..." Kagaya's smile turned a little mischievous. "That child is stubborn. Since you're taking her place, you'll have to work out how to placate her yourself. I have no wish to interfere in your private affairs."
The corner of Rokuya's mouth twitched at the teasing implications in Oyakata-sama's words. Shinobu Kocho's face, wearing that dangerously friendly smile, instantly surfaced in his mind, along with the sight of her jabbing him hard in the waist. He couldn't help feeling a headache coming on.
You really don't mind making things worse just for the entertainment... Rokuya grumbled inwardly, but still rose and bowed slightly to Kagaya. "Then I'll take my leave."
After leaving headquarters, Rokuya raced all the way back to the Butterfly Mansion.
The Butterfly Mansion was as busy as ever. In the courtyard, Aoi Kanzaki was directing three little nurses as they hung freshly washed sheets out to dry. On the veranda not far away, Kanao Tsuyuri sat quietly to one side, repeatedly tossing a copper coin, her expression blank yet focused.
Beneath the enormous