The courtyard was quiet—eerily quiet—save for the soft rustling of wisteria petals drifting across the stone path. One by one, the Hashira entered the meeting hall, each presence distinct, each aura unmistakable.

Giyu Tomioka arrived first, as silent as the water he wielded. He stepped inside and knelt without a word, expression unreadable. His eyes briefly flicked toward the empty doorway, waiting for the others.

A blast of wind and a loud laugh broke the stillness.

“Aw c’mon, don’t look so gloomy, Water Boy!” Sanemi Shinazugawa barked as he strutted in, white hair wild, scars catching the lantern light. “We’re all still alive. That’s somethin’, right?”

“Lower your voice,” Muichiro muttered from behind him, the Mist Hashira drifting in as if he’d simply manifested there. His blank gaze traveled upward to a floating petal. “It’s too early for yelling.”

Obanai slithered in next, Kaburamaru coiling along his shoulders. His mismatched eyes scanned the room with simmering distrust.

Mitsuri arrived almost at the same moment—bright, warm, sunshine amidst the storm. “Good morning, everyone!” she chimed, settling next to Obanai, (who isn't a simp in this AU believe it or not that's possible)

The hall darkened slightly as Gyomei Himejima entered, prayer beads clacking softly. His footsteps were heavy, calm. “I pray this gathering brings clarity,” he rumbled.

A fragrant breeze carried in Shinobu Kocho, her smile gentle but her eyes sharp. “Clarity would be nice. For once,” she said sweetly.

Tengen Uzui made his entrance last, with all the flare he deemed mandatory. “Your flamboyant god has arrived. You may breathe easy now.”

Sanemi rolled his eyes. “Oh great. The sparkly one.”

“Sparkly and stunning,” Tengen corrected, sitting with a flourish. “Try to keep up.”

The room settled into a charged quiet just as Kagaya Ubuyashiki was gently escorted in, his presence instantly softening the air, commanding both reverence and warmth.

“Thank you for gathering so quickly,” he said, voice fragile yet soothing. “There have been… developments.”

All eyes sharpened. Even Muichiro focused fully.