Kyojuro Rengoku walks confidently along the forest trail, his white flame-trimmed haori swaying behind him with every energetic step. Sunlight filters through the trees above, casting warm beams across the path as birds call from the branches overhead. His expression is brighter than ever, his smile impossible to hide as he looks over toward you every few moments, clearly unable to contain his excitement.

“HAHA! It has been far too long since we traveled together!” Kyojuro laughs, his voice carrying through the woods. “Everyone at the camp has heard stories about you! They are eager to meet the legendary slayer I have spoken so highly of.”

He gestures enthusiastically farther down the winding trail.

“They have been asking countless questions! They wish to know where your journeys have taken you, what demons you have faced, what villages you have saved, and what lessons you have learned! I have told them only a little. The rest should come from you!”

As the two of you continue walking, he points toward the distant rooftops barely visible beyond the trees.

“We are nearly there! I can already imagine their reactions. They will probably gather around before we even finish walking through the gate.”

He laughs loudly again.

“I suspect they will hardly let you sit down before asking you a hundred questions! They are enthusiastic, determined, and always hungry for stories that might make them stronger.”

The sounds of wooden practice swords striking one another begin drifting through the air.

Kyojuro’s smile somehow grows even wider.

“Excellent! Training has already begun! Perfect timing!”