"What...?"
Ubuyashiki suddenly faced forward, his gray, sightless eyes widening as he turned toward the source of the voice coming from the high seat. His face, hidden beneath bandages, was a mask of astonishment.
Amanai Riko's tone, which was starkly different from before, echoed through the hall as if she had become a completely different person.
It wasn't just him; his wife and daughters, as well as the members of the Demon Slayer Corps behind him, also noticed the change in the person above.
Rengoku Kyojuro's wide, spirited eyes reflected Amanai Riko's stern expression.
"Lady Riko's entire atmosphere has changed..."
"She isn't the same person at all!"
Iguro Obanai reflexively grasped the hand of the person beside him. Kanroji Mitsuri squeezed back, their fingers interlocking as she covered her half-open mouth with her other hand.
"What is going on?"
"Namu..."
Himejima Gyomei held his prayer beads with his hands clasped, his lips moving rapidly as he silently chanted sutras, tears streaming from the corners of his eyes.
Tokito Muichiro remained expressionless, seemingly oblivious to the dramatic shift in the atmosphere. His eyes remained vacant, his mind still adrift in the clouds.
Kochou Shinobu's brow furrowed. A glimmer of understanding flashed across her face as she formed a suspicion.
'Could it be that Lady Riko is now...'
At the very front, Ubuyashiki raised his hand, signaling the group to silence their hushed whispers.
Everyone's eyes were fixed on him.
As Ubuyashiki Kagaya faced Amanai Riko, whose temperament had shifted so suddenly, he recalled her earlier mention of 'going offline.'
Riko had said that the Great One wanted to meet them, yet no one else had appeared. Instead, she herself had taken on this unfamiliar persona.
With his sharp intuition, Ubuyashiki quickly deduced the nature of this change.
'Whether it be the Soul Reapers or the Uchiha, they all possess strength and mysterious powers far beyond human comprehension.'
'This change in Lady Riko... is most likely the work of Lord Ren!'
'Possession... or perhaps a descent of consciousness?'
At that thought, Ubuyashiki Kagaya did not hesitate. He prostrated himself toward the person on the high seat, lowering himself as much as possible.
"Greetings, My Lord."
Before entering, those behind him had been strictly cautioned by Ubuyashiki.
Seeing him bow, the others followed his lead.
As his forehead touched the floor, a pang of pain radiated from his scarred skin, but Ubuyashiki endured it, showing no outward sign of discomfort.
"Forgive my forwardness, but may I ask... is the person before us Lord Ren?"
"There is no need for such formality."
A deep voice descended from above. Ubuyashiki breathed a quiet sigh of relief and straightened his back.
Though the other had not explicitly confirmed it, this acknowledgement was as good as an admission.
He had not expected to meet such a high-ranking and powerful figure of the Soul Society so soon.
Although he had heard from others that Lord Ren was strict but generous, meeting him in person was a different matter.
Since he couldn't be sure of the man's true nature—and since this man could decide their fates with a single word—he couldn't afford any carelessness.
For now, he could only maintain the utmost respect, hoping not to offend.
"I met Michikatsu Tsugikuni earlier—the one you call Kokushibo. Since Riko brought you all here, I decided to show myself and take a look."
Ren, controlling Amanai Riko's body, swept his gaze across each person present.
Having read the story of the Demon Slayers in his previous life, he recognized their identities immediately and felt a sense of wonder.
He hadn't expected Riko to bring them all at once, effectively rounding up both the slayers and the demons in one fell swoop.
Glancing around, his gaze settled on the blind Ubuyashiki Kagaya.
The members of the Demon Slayer Corps followed his every command, which actually made things easier for Ren.
He only needed to secure Ubuyashiki's loyalty, and the others would naturally follow.
Furthermore, Ubuyashiki was a clever man who knew how to judge a situation and cared deeply for his people.
Even if he didn't care for his own life, he would make the right choice for the sake of the Corps.
Ubuyashiki Kagaya lowered his eyes, not daring to look directly up. "May I ask, My Lord, if there is a specific reason you have summoned us?"
"Though our strength is meager, we are willing to serve you with our lives."
See? A smart man.
He understood his position from the start and immediately offered his life, placing himself as low as possible.
"It is not that serious, and there is no need for you to throw your lives away."
Ren was satisfied with the answer, though the question itself gave him pause.
He had only come to take a look at them.
"Since Riko brought you here, you have naturally signed the contract. I have no other business with you for now."
Ren paused as various thoughts surfaced.
He respected these Hashira—their willpower and convictions were truly praiseworthy.
However, it was an undeniable fact that they were too weak. Even with his power, their bodies could at most handle Spiritual Pressure equivalent to a third or fourth seat officer.
While that was a significant boost for them, it was almost negligible for Ren.
They were somewhat redundant.
He looked at Ubuyashiki Kagaya and an idea sparked. "However, Kagaya, I do have some plans for you."
"Please, enlighten me."
"How does the Central 46 sound?"
Ren's voice was low, but it caused Ubuyashiki to snap his head up in shock. He almost cried out in surprise before quickly stifling the urge.
During his time in the Soul Society, he had gained a general understanding of this realm of the dead.
The heart of the Soul Society was the Seireitei, and the governing body that issued orders within its walls was the Central 46.
They were responsible for judicial rulings and administration, standing high above others with absolute authority.
To put it in familiar terms, they were like the government cabinet of his past life.
And from the sounds of it, the man wanted him to enter the Central 46?
Once he processed the staggering news, Ubuyashiki regained an unprecedented level of calm.
"Your Lordship means... for me to enter the center of the Soul Society's power?"
"Indeed."
Ren nodded.
He controlled the center through the various nobles aligned with the Shihoin family, but those nobles were loyal to the house, not to him personally.
Since he had the opportunity, he wanted to mix in his own influence and add more people who were truly his own.
Ubuyashiki was bound to him by contract, with his life in Ren's hands. He was also a smart man who understood political maneuvering, making him a perfect candidate.
Ubuyashiki's brow furrowed, appearing troubled.
"I am grateful for your high regard... but I fear my meager talents may hinder your grand designs. That would be a grave sin."
"Do you know what my grand designs are?"
"Of course not."
Ubuyashiki didn't dare let himself know too much.
From this display, the man was even capable of inserting people into the administrative heart of the Soul Society; clearly, he was no saint!
Ren reassured him, "I'm not putting you in there to do evil or cover anything up for me. I simply want to add my own people so I can rest easier."
"For you, sitting in a high position and issuing orders shouldn't be dangerous..."
His voice trailed off as he remembered Kōga Kuchiki slaughtering the Central 46, and Aizen doing the same in the original story.
Hmm, actually, it was a bit dangerous.
"Kagaya, if you are concerned, you can take these people behind you as your personal guards."
"They are all skilled and have signed the contract, so they can apply for my power. With them by your side, you should feel more secure."
Ubuyashiki prostrated himself again, his tone becoming solemn.
"I am honored by your trust, My Lord. I shall serve you with all I have."
"However, before we proceed, I have one question I hope you can answer."
"What is it?" Ren asked.
Ubuyashiki gritted his teeth, his nose pressed against the floor, his expression grave.
He possessed a basic ability to read people. Through this brief conversation, he could see that this powerful Lord Ren was indeed, as the Uchiha had said, a generous and informal person.
Even if one were to occasionally offend him, as long as no lines were crossed, there shouldn't be any major issues.
He spoke boldly. "Lady Riko brought the Demon King Muzan and others here as well. And from what you said earlier, you seem to appreciate Kokushibo..."
"May I ask, My Lord, how you intend to deal with these demons?"
Ren looked at the group, who all bowed their heads in unison. His gaze fell back on Ubuyashiki, whose long black hair draped over his hunched back in a posture of extreme humility.
He raised an eyebrow and asked, "Kagaya, if my decision doesn't meet your expectations, what will you do?"
"I wouldn't dare presume," Ubuyashiki said softly, sounding somewhat fearful. "You have your own reasons, and we only exist to follow your orders."
Even if Ren decided to spare Muzan or even promote the demons, could he really object?
In his darkest thoughts, he knew that if he openly opposed him or tried to use it as leverage, he, his family, and the children behind him would be wiped from existence.
The man held a high position and could afford to be pleasant and show a generous, easy-going side.
But they were currently nothing more than fish on a chopping block, unable to control their own lives. He wouldn't be so foolish.
Ren sensed the connection with Ubuyashiki and knew he wasn't lying. After a moment of thought, he spoke.
"I have always treated people with sincerity, believing that honesty begets honesty."
"So, I will tell you the truth. Kokushibo has excellent martial skills and I value him. As for the Demon King Muzan and Upper Moon Two, they aren't that important."
"I've handed them over to my subordinates for research."
Truthfully, Ren really didn't think much of Muzan. He was weak and cowardly compared to other major villains.
Even Upper Moon Two was just a nuisance.
Hearing the mention of the demons, Muichiro Tokito, who had been in a daze, gradually came back to reality. A frown appeared on his expressionless face, showing he was very concerned.
Himejima Gyomei gripped his prayer beads tightly, his tears stopping abruptly.
The others also grew tense.
"Researching demons?"
Ubuyashiki was stunned.
Why research them? Did he want to create more demons?
But what would be the point?
The Soul Reapers here had such immense power and long lifespans; they were far superior to demons who feared the sun!
He quickly regained his composure and didn't ask further. Instead, he said solemnly, "I understand."
Regardless of how Ren handled the Demon King—whether he killed or released him—Ubuyashiki wouldn't voice any disagreement.
If Ren truly intended to keep the Demon King, he would find a way.
Given Ren's current favor, his path forward was to gradually increase his importance in the man's eyes. Once he gained enough trust, he would find an opportunity to give advice or frame him—there would always be a way to ensure Muzan's total annihilation!
Seeing how tactful Ubuyashiki was, Ren nodded slightly.
"Over the coming days, learn more about the rules of the Soul Society and the Seireitei. If you have questions, ask the Uchiha; I will tell them to assist you."
"Once you're familiar with everything, I will install you in the Central 46."
"By your command!"
Ubuyashiki answered decisively. After a few seconds of silence, the girl's voice shifted, returning to its previous innocent and lively tone.
"The Lord has left. You can all stand up now."
Hearing this, Ubuyashiki slowly rose with his wife's support.
The group behind him looked at the cheerful Amanai Riko and collectively breathed a sigh of relief.
The atmosphere in the hall instantly became brighter.
"It seems he is gone."
"Yeah, even without him being physically here, the pressure was enormous..."
"Namu..."
"Master, are you all right?"
Sensing the concerned gazes from behind, Ubuyashiki shook his head, his voice turning cheerful.
"Rest easy, children. I am fine."
"In fact, I feel much lighter after this meeting."
After reassuring the group, Ubuyashiki led them in taking their leave of Amanai Riko.
Meanwhile, at the Onmitsukidō Headquarters...
In the Commander's office, Ren slowly opened his eyes. He looked up, a trace of relief visible in his expression.
The harvest this time was quite good. He had met several Hashira of the Demon Slayer Corps and successfully recruited their Master, Ubuyashiki!
It fulfilled a lingering wish from his previous life.
Seeing Ren wake up, Shimazu Toyohisa couldn't contain his curiosity and asked immediately, "Ren, what was it you wanted to tell us?"
Nobunaga added, "Being so mysterious... You called us here specifically only to leave us hanging for so long. The suspense is killing us."
"Nobunaga's right. We've been waiting for ages. If it's not something good, you're in for it," Yoichi added.
Seeing the three of them so impatient, Ren didn't keep them waiting. "Grandpa, Nobunaga, Yoichi... don't go spreading this around."
"The truth is, I'm going to be a father!"
"Oh."
Shimazu Toyohisa froze for a moment before the realization hit him. He opened his mouth to speak, but a grin had already stretched from ear to ear.
He repeatedly slapped Nobunaga's shoulder, wanting him to say something.
Nobunaga blinked and asked again, "Ren, what did you say? Do you mean it in that way?"
Ren nodded firmly. "Exactly what you think. I'm having a child!"
"For real?"
"It is the absolute truth!"
With Ren's confirmation, Nobunaga's excitement became uncontrollable.
"You're having a kid! Heh... *cough*!"
Nobunaga tried to laugh loudly but ended up choking on his own spit.
Shimazu Toyohisa was also lost in a dazed, silly grin.
Yoichi ran to Ren's side like a gust of wind and gripped his hand, shaking it up and down.
Her pretty face was beaming with joy, her eyes sparkling. Even the black hair on her forehead couldn't hide her radiance.
"Ren, congratulations!"
"I can't believe little Ren has reached the age of becoming a father!"
"When the child is born, I want to be their teacher! I'll teach them all my archery skills!"
Shimazu Toyohisa shoved Yoichi aside, sending her stumbling.
Stepping up to Ren, Toyohisa slapped him hard on the shoulder, a foolish grin plastered on his face.
"Well done, Ren!"
"Then I'll be the one to teach the child swordsmanship! They'll inherit my Jigen-ryu!"
No sooner had he finished speaking than he was pushed aside by Nobunaga.
Nobunaga laughed, "Jajaja! Then I, the great Unifier, shall teach them the strategies of leading armies and winning wars!"
"Hey, idiot Nobunaga, talk all you want, but why are you pushing me!"
"Toyohisa, you're the idiot here! How can you talk about others!"
The three began their usual bickering.
Ren watched the familiar scene in silence, rubbing his forehead in exasperation.
When it came to the child's education, Ren didn't dare let these three get involved.
His thoughts drifted back to Ubuyashiki's bandaged face.
Specifically, the way the Ubuyashiki family educated their children.
The Ubuyashiki family had led the Demon Slayer Corps for centuries, fighting demons generation after generation without ever losing sight of their goal.
The children Kagaya Ubuyashiki raised—both boys and girls—were intelligent, strong-willed, and exceptional. It was impossible not to be impressed.
Ren was about to become a father himself and was worried about future education.
Now that he had met such a family, he would learn as much as he could from Ubuyashiki Kagaya once they grew closer.
Ren didn't have high expectations; his child didn't need to be as perfect as Kagaya's children—just above average would do.
At the very least, they couldn't be as unreliable as Yoruichi!
And they definitely couldn't be as hot-headed as these three, losing their tempers and fighting at the slightest provocation.
[Reviews - Power St0nes - Comments are highly appreciated to keep me going.....(+50 chapters) patre0n.c0m/talecrafter]