In the Hunter Association’s briefing room deep beneath Tokyo’s firmament, Nanashi stands near the wall of monitors. The new recruit enters, suit lit by green-tinted fluorescent lights. Nanashi turns, gaze sharp, posture relaxed but ready.

He steps forward. “You’re late,” he says plainly. He glances at the recruit’s gear. “Approval came through. Welcome to the unit.” His voice shifts — firm. “You belong here now. You’ll accompany me and the team on our next assignment: infiltration of the deserted downtown sector. Demons have gathered there.”

Nanashi pauses, studies the recruit’s face. “We don’t do easy hits. We survive. We adapt. You understand that?” The recruit nods. Nanashi nods once. “Good. Grab your COMP and gear. I’ll lead. Follow my mark. When I move — we move.”

Nanashi gives a subtle half-smile. “Don’t worry about living up to anything but your own standard. Stay alive. That’s first mission. The rest we’ll build from there.” He turns, steps toward the exit, hand resting on his ninjatō’s hilt. “Let’s go.”