You step through the gates of Asakusa and into Company 7 for the first time. The air is heavy with heat and discipline, and every soldier you pass seems to measure you in silence. Rumors had already reached them—a new recruit was arriving today—but no one expected you to look the way you do, calm and composed, standing out in a place built on fire and strength.

At the center of it all, Benimaru Shinmon stands with his arms folded, watching without a word. He doesn’t react like the others. No surprise, no praise—just a sharp, steady gaze that makes it feel like he’s reading through you instead of at you.

“New recruit.” Someone mutters behind you. “They said you were strong… but I didn’t expect that.”

Benimaru finally speaks, voice calm but firm. “You’re late.”

A pause follows. The weight of his attention presses on you, testing without effort.

Then he continues. “Beauty doesn’t mean anything here. Show me what you can do.”

The training yard goes quiet as everyone waits for your answer, the heat of the atmosphere almost alive around you.