"First of all, to start with, I have heard everything from the Water Hashira, Giyu Tomioka, about you," Kagaya continued in response to Muichiro's question.
Ishida looked a bit towards Giyu, who was standing beside him, thinking, so he knew everything all along, as he again refocused on Kagaya.
"And I also heard about your family. I know what you might have gone through after such a huge loss. But still, your decision to fight back to avenge your family and to train to become such an exceptional swordsman with such a unique breathing style is commendable."
As he said those words, the Hashiras gave him an appreciative look, well, some of them.
Kyojuro Rengoku, the Flame Hashira, glanced at Ishida with fiery admiration. "What a spirited young man! Such determination is the heart of our Corps."
Giyu Tomioka, the Water Hashira, remained silent but nodded subtly, feeling a quiet sense of approval and responsibility for having recognized Ishida's potential.
Sanemi Shinazugawa, the Wind Hashira, crossed his arms and kept a stoic expression. "Let's see if he can truly stand with us when the time comes."
Gyomei Himejima, the Stone Hashira, clasped his hands together, his eyes closed in contemplation. "May his strength be as enduring as the mountains, and his spirit as unyielding as the earth."
Obanai Iguro, the Serpent Hashira, observed Ishida with a critical gaze, his thoughts guarded. "He has potential, but time will reveal his true worth."
Muichiro Tokito, the Mist Hashira, was lost in thought, his mind wandering as usual, only vaguely registering the conversation. "I wonder if I'll remember this moment later…"
Shinobu Kocho, the Insect Hashira, smiled gently, pleased with Ishida's resolve. "I hope he finds success and peace in his journey."
Mitsuri Kanroji, the Love Hashira, glanced at Ishida with gentle admiration. "His courage is truly inspiring. I feel a connection with him already and would love to learn more about his journey."
Tengen Uzui, the Sound Hashira, tilted his head with a flamboyant grin. "I hope this kid's journey will be as flashy and exciting as mine. It'll be interesting to see how his unique style adds to our ranks."
Kagaya Ubuyashiki continued, "First of all, the first thing I wanted to tell you, Ishida, was about your rank promotion. You have been promoted to Tsuchinoto rank, directly from Mizunoe rank," he announced.
Ishida nodded, as he finally understood the reason for the system changing his rank. But it also intrigued and surprised him at the same time that the system knew what was going to be announced beforehand somehow. Who is this system!?
Kagaya Ubuyashiki, maintaining his gentle demeanor, continued, "The second reason for summoning you here, Ishida, is to formally introduce you to the Hashiras. As you stand before us, understand that each of these esteemed warriors has faced their own trials and emerged stronger."
He gestured around the room, acknowledging the Hashiras with a nod. "These formidable individuals are not just your comrades but your mentors as well. They embody the values and skills we hold dear in our Corps. By meeting them today, you become part of a legacy of strength and unity."
Kagaya's tone was both welcoming and solemn. "Learn from them, Ishida. Share your experiences and draw wisdom from theirs. The path ahead is challenging, but with the guidance of the Hashiras and your own resolve, I am confident you will rise to meet any challenge."
Ishida nodded with a smile, "Thanks!"
After this introduction, he had to leave the place as the Hashiras and Kagaya had to continue the yearly Hashira meeting, and although Ishida had ranked up tremendously, he was far from being a Hashira.
After leaving the meeting place, he quickly returned to his given headquarters room, from where he went to the Butterfly Mansion to check on Sakura. Although he was not interested in doing missions with her, because she got injured during a mission with him, he felt it was necessary to visit her.
As he reached the Butterfly Mansion, Ishida stood at the doorway, greeted by the lively voices of Sumi Nakahara, Kiyo Terauchi, and Naho Takada. Their cheerful welcome brought a warm smile to his face.
"I'm doing well," Ishida replied, his voice friendly and appreciative. "By the way, is Sakura inside?"
Sumi, eager to assist, was the first to respond. "Oh, Sakura just left for a mission a little while ago!"
Kiyo added with enthusiasm, "Yes, she was teamed up with someone else this time. She seemed quite excited."
Naho, with her gentle smile, reassured him, "Don't worry, Ishida. Sakura's been recovering well, and she was in good spirits when she left."
"Oh, I see. I will return later then. Thanks," Ishida said as he left the mansion after bidding farewell.
"Left for a mission!? I guess that's good, that she is doing fine now," he thought as he walked through the Demon Slayer headquarters.
"Caw... caw..."
The crow arrived again as Ishida stopped walking and looked up towards the crow, which came down and landed on his shoulder.
"Ishida, move towards the forest in the north. There have been reports of missing people from the nearby village... Caw... caw..."
Ishida listened to the crow. "I guess I also have a mission now. No time to rest," he thought as he followed the direction given by the crow to the north, leaving the Demon Slayer Corps headquarters.
After reaching there... [Evening Time]
"Moon Breathing First Form: Dark Moon, Evening Palace"
With the crescent slice of the first form of Moon Breathing, Ishida's sword sliced through the neck of the last standing demon as he completed the given mission and even rescued three people taken by the demons that he had just killed, finishing his mission.
"I have gained only 1500 EXP from this mission, but these demons were weak, so I guess that makes sense," Ishida thought as he walked out of the forest and the village, taking the rescued people to their homes.
"But I want to face demons at a higher level, like the demon I faced," he thought.
And as soon as this thought came to his mind, the crow came again, this time with another mission...
What's this mission going to be!? Let's find out in the next chapter.