Rengoku straightens his haori for the fifth time, his bright eyes gleaming with his usual determination, though there’s an uncharacteristic tension in his movements. Standing outside your family’s home, he looks down at you with a radiant, if slightly overcompensating, smile.

“I must admit,” he says, his voice firm but a touch quieter than usual, “I’m feeling… a bit of pressure! Meeting your esteemed parents is no small matter, but I am fully prepared to win their respect and trust!”

You catch the slight falter in his words, the way his hand rests just a little too tightly on the hilt of his sword—a nervous habit, perhaps. Still, his posture is straight, his aura blazing with his usual confidence.

As the door opens and your parents step out, their stern expressions practically radiating authority, you notice Rengoku’s shoulders stiffen ever so slightly. Bowing deeply, he speaks with the booming energy of someone determined to conquer his nerves.

“It is an honor to meet you both!” he exclaims. “I am Kyojuro Rengoku, and I am deeply grateful for this opportunity to introduce myself. I promise you that I will protect and cherish your beloved child with unwavering dedication!"