"That was indeed an impressive strike," Kaizen said with an exaggerated thumbs-up.
"Did you see it clearly?" Fujitora asked in a low voice, the momentum of the sword swing lingering.
"Not clearly at all," Kaizen admitted, shaking his head.
"Draw the sword and then swing it. It's simple, like this." Fujitora suddenly demonstrated a sword draw.
The slash approached Kaizen instantly. His reflexes kicked in, and he raised his hand to block it.
"Can you see it clearly now?" Fujitora asked with satisfaction.
"Of course, if I couldn't, I'd be done for," Kaizen said, moving his wrist. He was better prepared this time.
"Now that you can see it, give it a try," Fujitora suggested.
"I'll use this as a sword for now," Kaizen said, picking up a wooden stick.
He imitated Fujitora's stance, but it was much clumsier.
"Watch out, here comes the Kaizen version of the sword draw!" he shouted, pulling the stick out. However, it broke into two pieces with the swing.
"Ah, using a stick won't work. It breaks too easily," Kaizen complained.
"The problem isn't the stick, it's you," Fujitora said, analyzing Kaizen's swing calmly.
"What can be broken is the stick," Kaizen said, puzzled.
"To wield a sword, you need more than brute force. You need the spirit of the sword. Only then will your cuts have a soul."
Fujitora's words struck a chord in Kaizen, though he still looked unconvinced.
"Why didn't you say this earlier?"
"If I told you at the start, you wouldn't understand or care. Only after failure can you truly learn," Fujitora explained wisely.
"Ha! You underestimate me," Kaizen said confidently. "Let me show you my true strength!"
With great determination, he picked up another branch.
This time, Kaizen's eyes were sharp, and his stance more confident. He was serious now, resembling the man who faced top opponents alone.
"Watch this, draw and strike!" Kaizen shouted, determined.
Snap!
An embarrassing sound.
The branch broke again, this time into three pieces.
It was embarrassing, but at least it was an improvement.
Kaizen walked aside, squatted down, and drew circles on the ground with the broken stick. It was a pitiful sight, like a child whose stubborn heart had been crushed.
"Hahahaha!" Fujitora laughed heartily, filling the surroundings with his amusement.
"It seems my dream of becoming a swordsman is over," Kaizen said, shaking his head.
"Being a swordsman is tiring with all the fighting. It's a blessing not to have it," Fujitora said kindly.
"Thanks for the comforting words. I feel better," Kaizen replied sincerely.
The night grew darker, with only the moonlight illuminating them, making their bond stronger.
"Let's rest on this island tonight."
They found an empty room to stay in.
Lighting an oil lamp, its glow revealed the simple interior filled with the essence of a peaceful life.
The previous residents seemed to have left in a hurry, even forgetting family photos on the table.
In the photo, a father, mother, and laughing son—a warm, harmonious scene.
"So happy," Kaizen remarked, looking at the photo.
"It's a pity no one maintains this happiness now," Fujitora's words were sharp and startling.
"In this messed-up era, even peaceful lives get disrupted!" Kaizen sneered, recalling how his own peaceful life was shattered.
They sat on the floor, leaning against the table. The alcohol took over, and their will weakened, drifting into sleep...
Morning came with bird calls.
The sun peeked cautiously over the horizon.
Kaizen and Fujitora woke up, feeling the effects of the hangover. Their bodies felt drained.
They looked at each other, slowly remembering who they were.
"Good morning," Fujitora greeted hoarsely.
"Forget this morning! I just want to sleep," Kaizen said, eyes squinting.
"It's already dawn," Fujitora said regretfully, standing up.
"This stupid morning, I'll remember it forever!" Kaizen said as he stood up.
After a night on the floor, their bodies felt sore.
"My bones feel like they're breaking," Kaizen complained.
"Get some fresh air. Drinking was fun last night. It's been a while since I felt like that," Fujitora said, walking steadily out of the house.
Kaizen followed.
The early morning on the island was pleasant. The sea breeze and fresh air complemented each other. The town, bathed in sunlight, seemed lively despite being empty.
"It's really nice," Kaizen said, moved by the scene. His hangover and aches seemed to ease.
"What's that sound? It seems like a pirate ship is coming," Fujitora noted, listening to the coast intently.