Chapter 5: At the Oni Village — On the March —

The dojo the next morning was so still it felt as though the clamor of the previous night had been a lie.
In the light of the morning sun streaming in, Homuramaru stood alone in silence, holding Shu in his hands.

Sekiren, who had come to the dojo, noticed it and narrowed his eyes.
He stepped closer, and they exchanged greetings.

“Sekiren-san, you mentioned there’s a strong Tengu, didn’t you? Could you introduce me to them?”

Homuramaru’s voice was steady.
Having obtained the legendary Shu was filling him with confidence.

“…You mean Aiha. I can introduce you, but what are you planning?”

When Sekiren questioned him as if probing, Homuramaru answered firmly.

“I’d like to ask for a bout. As I am now— I can beat anyone.”

His eyes were sharp, as if piercing through.
Was it recklessness born of youth, or had he grasped something?
But Sekiren could tell that those eyes were serious.

“…Very well. I’ll contact Aiha myself.”

“Really!? Thank you very much!”
Homuramaru bowed deeply. In his back, an extraordinary resolve seeped through.

“I’ll prove that I’m the strongest.”
His voice was quiet, but powerful.