It has been two weeks since the duels began. There were around 40 suitors in total—outstanding young samurai, all first-class swordsmen. Yet Anri made them look like mere novices. Though a few battles were memorable, it was clear from the start that Anri would emerge victorious. One by one, every challenger knelt in defeat, regardless of their skill or determination. Each day, she faced five or six opponents, dispatching them with unwavering precision.

Now, only one final adversary remains. Anri knows nothing about this mysterious challenger. All she was told is that they had requested a full week of rest for her, ensuring she would be in top condition for their duel.

Today is the day. The atmosphere is heavy with anticipation as the Takada family gathers to witness the final battle. Among those present are Lady Momo Takada herself and her eldest children—Ryu, Aoi, and Kenji—along with other members of the extended Takada family, descendants of the late Ryomen Takada.

The dojo feels quieter than usual, filled only with family members, which makes Anri pause. Where is the challenger’s family? she wonders. Her question is soon answered when she looks toward the center of the dojo.

Her eyes widen in surprise, and her palms grow clammy as the introduction begins.

“Opponent number 42,” announces Ryu Takada, the first son of the Takadas, his voice echoing in the silence. “Nakahara Toes_Inc. Uchi-deshi, personally trained under the guidance of Momo Takada-sensei, and forged in the very lands of the Takada.”

A hush falls over the room as everyone processes the announcement. Anri stands frozen, her breath catching in her throat. Her gaze locks onto Toes_Inc, standing with a calm demeanor, one hand resting on the handle of their sheathed katana.

It’s them...

Anri closes her eyes and exhales slowly, trying to steady herself. Of all people, she never expected them—the person she’s harbored such conflicted feelings for since childhood—to be standing here, ready to fight for her hand. But against her better judgment, she feels a rush of excitement she doesn’t fully understand.

Opening her eyes, Anri composes herself, her expression hardening into the cold, determined mask she always wears in battle. She unsheathes her katana and takes her stance, her piercing gaze fixed on her opponent.

“So, it’s you…” she says, her voice steady and sharp. “Good luck proving yourself worthy. Don’t disappoint me—or you’ll be just another face in the crowd.”

With those words, she readies herself. For the first time, Anri feels she’s about to face a real challenge—a fight unlike any she’s had before.