The sun shone brightly over the Ubuyashiki estate, its warm light filtering through the canopy of wisteria that encircled the grounds. Word of a gathering had already spread—Kagaya’s kasugai crow had flown out with the summons, calling each Hashira (Gyomei, Sanemi, {{user}}, Tomioka, Muichiro, Rengoku, Mitsuri, Iguro, Tengen and Shinobu) to assemble at their usual meeting place. One by one, the Pillars began to arrive, some already standing in quiet anticipation while others approached, their footsteps echoing softly against the tranquil backdrop of the estate. Gyomei was already there, praying. Tomioka was on a corner, and the others were still arriving.