"Going to the Swordsmith Village for maintenance?" A cool voice tinged with impatience rang out. The Smoke Hashira, Yuichiro Tokito, folded his arms across his chest and glanced at Rokuya. "Good timing. Muichiro's sword hasn't been handling quite right lately either. It needs sharpening again. Muichiro and I will go with you."
Beside him, the long-haired Mist Hashira, Muichiro Tokito, turned his somewhat vacant eyes toward Yuichiro and nodded blankly. "Mm, I'll listen to you, big brother. My sword really does need maintenance, or I'll forget how to swing it."
"Stop spacing out all the time, you!" Yuichiro gave Muichiro a smack on the head in exasperation, but his eyes were full of protectiveness.
"Huh? The Swordsmith Village?" The Love Hashira, Mitsuri Kanroji, cupped her slightly flushed cheeks in both hands. "My flexible sword has been feeling a little less resilient lately too. If everyone's going, could I come along?"
Kanae smiled gently then, her eyes shimmering. "In that case, I'll go too. My Nichirin Blade suffered quite a bit of wear in the last battle and needs repairs. Besides..." She glanced at Rokuya, seemingly casually, and her lips curved into a lovely smile. "With Rokuya there, we'll feel very safe on the road."
Meeting Kanae's gaze, Rokuya couldn't help straightening his back, secretly delighted. A trip away with Kanae was a rare chance to relax.
"Since you all have a need to go, I'll arrange for members of the Kakushi Corps to escort you to and from the Swordsmith Village," Kagaya Ubuyashiki agreed with a smile. "The Swordsmith Village is the Demon Slayer Corps' most important logistical site. Its location is strictly confidential, and there are many rules for the journey. Please cooperate."
"No problem, Oyakata-sama. I know all the rules." Rokuya waved a hand, indicating that he was