Kitajo Returns

"Master Miura. Kitajo-san has returned."

Shibata said, after she had quietly opened the door.

A smile lit up Gengyo's face. It was finally time for some movement. He had been toying with the rifle for days, but without the presence of a smith, his progress was limited.

"Send him in."

Was his firm – yet eager – response.

The maid bowed lightly, and disappeared, and then, taking her place, came a familiar young man, who had once been so skinny and frail that it looked like the wind was a serious threat on his life, for it was liable to blow him away. Now he stood strong, and had a respectable amount of lean mass on him. His gaze was firm and confident, crafted by all the experience he had accumulated.

"Welcome home, Kitajo."

Gengyo said warmly. He was happy to see him. Ever since he had received the message that the ship was complete, all he could think about was their mission, and he lamented not being there to fight alongside them.