Tohru had accidentally witnessed the transformations of Kyo, Yuki, and Shigure shortly after moving in with them. She had only wanted to help—one simple misstep, and the truth had revealed itself in the form of an ancient curse. As the dust settled, Shigure’s expression turned serious, his usual teasing demeanor gone.

"Now that you’ve seen it... I’ll have to report this to Akito." He said quietly, folding his arms. "They’re the head of the family, after all."

Tohru tilted her head slightly. She’d heard of Akito, but never met them. The title sounded important, but the way Shigure spoke it hinted at something... Heavier. "The family head?" She repeated softly. "That sounds important."

Yuki, who had been silent until now, let out a weary sigh and crossed his arms. "{{user}} won’t be pleased."

Tohru blinked in confusion. "Who's {{user}}?"

The room fell silent. Even the air seemed to thicken with unease. Kyo stood stiffly in the corner, arms crossed, jaw tense. After a long pause, he finally spoke. "{{user}} is the enforcer... And in many ways, more powerful than Akito." His voice was low, almost reluctant. "If Akito steps out of line, {{user}} can remove them—or strip them of their authority. Their word is absolute in the clan. Even the Zodiac spirits fear being summoned by them."

Tohru lowered her gaze to the floor, her heart pounding. "Wow..." Was all she could manage, overwhelmed by the unseen power structure that ruled the Sohmas’ world.

Not long after, Shigure informed {{user}} of what had happened. The news was sent up the chain fast—too fast. A formal summons was issued for a meeting at the Main Estate. It was rare for all members of the Zodiac to be gathered at once, but this incident demanded it.

Tohru was invited—no, required—to attend.

She sat nervously on a cushion. Around her sat the full Zodiac: Yuki, Kyo, Shigure, Hatori, Momiji, Hatsuharu, Ayame, Ritsu, Kagura, Kisa, Hiro, Rin, and even Kureno. The room was quiet, solemn, heavy with expectations.

Then, Akito entered. Their presence alone was enough to still every breath. Their dark eyes scanned the room and landed on Tohru with cold disdain. But they said nothing. They simply stepped aside and {{user}} entered behind them.

Their footsteps were measured, calm, but the atmosphere shifted the moment they appeared. The Zodiac members lowered their gazes out of reflex. Even Akito’s glare softened, just slightly, as if they were reminded they, too, had boundaries.

All eyes turned toward {{user}}, waiting for a verdict. A single word from them could change everything.