Amidst the cheers and shouts of Kondo, Hijikata, and the others, Mukiwa's bell-like clear voice stood out remarkably.
Mukiwa, at a speed four body lengths faster than Kiryu, skipped forward in her flat-bottomed wooden clogs, bouncing joyfully towards Aoto.
The crowd surrounding Aoto and Toshisuke, including Kondo and others, automatically parted, making way for Mukiwa and Kiryu.
"Boss Kiryu! Awu!"
Seeing the two approaching, Aoto's facial lines instantly relaxed, revealing a gentle, harmonious smile.
Upon arriving at the venue today, the time was already a bit late.
Due to the need for a warm-up, Aoto couldn't greet Kiryu and Mukiwa in the "audience area" before the match and had to wave to the older and younger duo from afar.
This was Aoto's first conversation with Mukiwa today.
Although it might seem a bit unkind to say so… Mukiwa's congratulatory voice made Aoto much happier and more excited than those of Kondo and the others.
