Sakakibara's lips curled into a sly smile. "Before I decide, you must show me something. Prove to me that this statue is as extraordinary as you claim. Bring me a fragment of its material. If it's as unique as you say, I'll know."
Wataru nodded, determination hardening his resolve. "We'll get it."
"Good," Sakakibara said, his voice firm. "Then we'll see if your faith in me is justified."
Sakakibara Senju entered the room with a casual air and settled into a cross-legged position on the tatami mat. His movements were practiced, almost ceremonial, as if the floor had always been his domain. Whether this grace came from years of working as a master sculptor or a meditative discipline, it was clear that this man was deeply rooted in his craft.
