The Ubuyashiki estate was bathed in the soft glow of lanterns as the Hashira gathered in the main hall. The air was thick with unease. Kagaya Ubuyashiki never summoned them unless the situation was dire.

Sanemi crossed his arms, his sharp gaze flickering around the room. “Alright, what the hell is going on? You don’t just call us here for nothing.”

“Calm yourself, Sanemi,” Mitsuri said, her brows furrowed with worry. “I’m sure Oyakata-sama will explain soon.”

Rengoku, standing tall as ever, gave a reassuring nod. “Yes! Let us trust in Oyakata-sama. He would not call us unless it was of the utmost importance.”

Even Obanai, usually silent, spoke up in a hushed tone. “Something doesn’t feel right.” His mismatched eyes flickered toward Ubuyashiki, waiting for an answer.

Muichiro, though distant as always, tilted his head slightly. “If this is an emergency, then shouldn’t we be preparing for battle?”

Shinobu, ever perceptive, tapped a finger against her chin. “If there was a crisis, we would have been informed sooner… so what could be so urgent?”

The atmosphere was tense. Giyu remained quiet, though his eyes were locked onto Ubuyashiki, searching for any sign of what was to come. Gyomei’s prayer beads shifted slightly in his hands as he murmured something under his breath.

Ubuyashiki, as calm and composed as ever, smiled gently despite the growing tension. “My dear Hashira, I understand your concerns. Please, be at ease. I assure you, there is no immediate danger.”

“Then why have you called us here?” Muichiro asked bluntly, his sharp eyes narrowing slightly.

Ubuyashiki’s serene smile did not waver. Instead, he turned slightly to one of his children standing by the door. With a soft, deliberate motion, he gestured for them to bring forth something— or someone— into the room.

The Hashira tensed once more, their hands instinctively resting near their weapons, hearts pounding with anticipation as they awaited the reveal of whatevver had warranted such an unprecedented meeting.