The courtyard was utterly silent, save for the rustle of wind through the leaves.
Tengen Uzui grinned soundlessly; the prayer beads in Gyomei Himejima's hands moved faster. Shinjuro Rengoku merely paused in his drinking and lifted his eyelids slightly. An exceedingly complicated emotion seemed to flash through his eyes-surprise, scorn, and, more than anything, profound exhaustion. Then he lowered his head and took another swig.
Rokuya remained on one knee, with no particular look of pride on his face.
"Therefore, on behalf of the Ubuyashiki Clan and all the lives you have saved, I offer you my deepest gratitude, Rokuya." Kagaya dipped his head slightly in acknowledgment.
"You are too kind, Oyakata-sama. I was only doing my duty. My blade cuts only what deserves to be cut," Rokuya answered calmly.
Kagaya smiled with relief, then turned to Kanae.
"The second matter. During this operation to eliminate Lower Rank Two, Kanae Kocho demonstrated exceptional tenacity and swordsmanship. Not only did she protect the villagers in desperate circumstances, but she also underwent a transformation of spirit at the brink of death. Her mastery of Flower Breathing has reached perfection. Together with her previously accumulated achievements..."
Kagaya raised his voice a little, lending it a solemn, ceremonial air. "I hereby formally announce that Kanae Kocho will fill the vacant position and be promoted to the Demon Slayer Corps' Flower Hashira!"
"I humbly obey your decree, Oyakata-sama! I will not disgrace the name of the Flower Hashira!" Kanae took a deep breath, her voice clear and firm. Pressing her forehead to the backs of her hands, she performed an impeccably proper deep bow.
A fifteen-year-old Flower Hashira.
At that moment, the Demon Slayer Corps welcomed the youngest and most dazzling pair of twin stars in its history.
The rest of the meeting primarily concerned