Making it clear
night.
Demon Slayer Corps Headquarters.
The large room was dimly lit by only a few oil lamps.
In this era, electric lights are no longer an unattainable technology; they have become widespread in some bustling cities, especially in urban areas, where the light illuminates every corner of the night.
However, the location of the Demon Slayer Corps Headquarters is somewhat removed from this modern civilization. Although the Ubuyashiki Family is wealthy, they value the secrecy of the team even more.
Therefore, the headquarters was located deep in the mountains and forests, far away from the hustle and bustle. While this ensured safety and seclusion, it also kept it away from the conveniences of modern civilization.
At this moment, all six Hashira Rank members had arrived, and they were arranged in the predetermined order on both sides of the room.
Near the door, the Stone Hashira, Gyomei Himejima, sat at the very front, his figure appearing exceptionally tall and resolute in the lamplight; following closely behind was the Flower Hashira Kanae Kocho; and behind that was Teiichi, who had only become a Pillar more than half a year ago.
On the other side, the Sound Hashira Tengen Uzui, sat at the very front, his presence the strongest among all the Hashira in the room, his magnificent attire not wasted; closely following him was the expressionless Water Hashira Giyu Tomioka; and Kyojuro Rengoku, because he was not yet a Hashira, was last, facing Teiichi. Of course, even if he became a Hashira, due to the time he was a Hashira, he could only stay Teiichi.
At this moment, Tengen Uzui's handsome yet slightly unruly face clearly showed dissatisfaction. He glanced sideways at Teiichi, his tone carrying a hint of mockery and provocation:
"Hey, you little rascal, do you have a rebellious streak in your bones? It's one thing to greet the Oyakata-sama differently from us, but even your most basic sitting posture is unconventional. The tradition of kneeling seems to be just for show for you."
As Tengen Uzui finished speaking, everyone's gaze turned to Teiichi. Teiichi sat there with his legs crossed, forming a comfortable circle, which contrasted sharply with the uniform kneeling posture of the people around him, making him particularly eye-catching.
Feeling the focus of everyone's attention, Teiichi sighed softly and explained helplessly:
"Actually, I'm just not used to kneeling. When I was a child, my family had limited resources, so I didn't have many opportunities to learn this formal sitting posture. Over time, kneeling became a burden for me, and it made me feel uncomfortable all over. So, I naturally chose to sit cross-legged, which is more comfortable for me."
Just then, Kanae's gentle voice rang out, like a spring breeze and soothing rain, rescuing Teiichi from Teiichi predicament:
"Speaking of which, I don't recall ever seeing Teiichi kneeling. Whenever there's a situation where sitting is required, Teiichi always sits cross-legged." Her words were full of understanding and tolerance for Teiichi, which eased the atmosphere a little.
"Tch!" Tengen Uzui scoffed upon hearing this, seemingly unconvinced by Teiichi's answer, "So, you've been influenced by that so-called 'new culture' too?"
Upon hearing Tengen Uzui's words, Teiichi moment before slowly replying, "I suppose so."
"I've heard that the new culture emphasizes gender equality and advocates monogamy, is that right?"
Teiichi and said, "That's right! The government's current laws also stipulate monogamy."
Upon hearing this, Tengen Uzui scoffed disdainfully. "Monogamy? How laughable. For truly powerful people, how can the number of lovers and partners be limited by these worldly rules?"
Fortunately, I, Tengen Uzui, have never acted under any constraints, including those imposed by the government." As he said this, a hint of pride and confidence appeared on his face.
Seeing this, Kanae interjected at the opportune moment, providing Teiichi with additional background information about Tengen Uzui.
"Mr. Uzui has three wives."
Teiichi nodded and looked at Tengen Uzui, asking, "How old are you this year, Mr. Uzui?"
Upon hearing Teiichi's words, Tengen Uzui replied, "17 years old."
"Hiss~"
Upon Teiichi, Ding Yi gasped in shock.
"What's wrong?" Kanae asked after hearing Teiichi gasp.
"Three wives at 17?!" Teiichi couldn't help but exclaim in disbelief. It was truly terrifying.
Tengen Uzui raised his head and ran his right hand through his hair.
"No, not 17. I already had three wives two years ago!"
"..."
"For powerful people, having multiple wives is not a strange thing. Of course, I truly love all three of my wives."
Tengen Uzui explained to Teiichi, then looked at Teiichi and asked, "You were able to withstand the Upper Rank's attacks until dawn, so your strength must be quite impressive. How many wives are you planning to get in the future?"
Teiichi hearing Tengen Uzui's question, Teiichi instinctively glanced at Kanae beside him. Seeing that Kanae seemed curious but was actually staring intently at him, Teiichi timidly replied:
"I'll just find someone else later!"
Seeing the interaction between Teiichi and Kanae, Tengen Uzui couldn't help but smile and silently commented.
"Interesting!"
They didn't expose their intentions.
But Kyojuro Rengoku, the straightforward guy sitting Teiichi, didn't have that concern and asked directly.
Teiichi and Kanae- sama dating?
This sudden problem, like a pebble thrown into a calm lake, created ripples.
The room fell silent, and everyone turned their attention to the two of them.
Even Gyomei Himejima couldn't help but listen intently.
Teiichi and Kanae both paused for a moment, the ambiguous atmosphere that had been lingering between them for days was suddenly exposed, and their cheeks flushed slightly.
Teiichi originally intended to deny it lightly, but as the words were about to come out, he seemed to be drawn by some force and decided to be honest.
"Not yet, but I do have feelings for Kanae and will pursue Kanae in the future."
Upon hearing Kanae lowered her head slightly, her long eyelashes trembling like butterflies about to take flight, and her cheeks flushed as radiantly as the morning sun.
Seeing Kanae's expression, everyone present could easily understand the situation between the two.
As the first person to initiate the group, Kyojuro Rengoku laughed heartily and was the first to stand up and offer his blessings.
"Then I'll take this opportunity to wish Teiichi speedy success!"
Tengen Uzui clapped his hands and shouted, "Hahaha... Magnificent! Truly magnificent!"
"Amitabha..."
With his Gyomei Himejima together, tears streamed from his eyes. He too was moved by the pure emotions of the young boy and girl.
"Squeak--"
The atmosphere in the room hadn't lasted long before it was interrupted by the sound of a door being pushed open.