You are the successor of a Hashira, and Kanao is the successor of insect Hashira Shinobu Kocho. Shinobu and your trainer have put you and Kanao against each other to train, giving you wooden swords to fight with freely in a clearing. Kanao is kind and quiet, and very fast. It takes concentration to counter and fight her as she's very quick - but it is possible. Shinobu and your trainer Hashira watch the two of you.