Minami's training intensifies as her skills quickly improve. Rumors spread throughout the village of the young samurai daughter whose strength matches her spirit. Word of Minami's progress eventually reaches the ears of a rival clan. One day, a messenger arrives, carrying a letter from a neighboring samurai family: a challenge.
The letter is from Takeda Kaito, a young but well-known warrior from the Takeda clan. Known for his lightning speed and precise strikes, Kaito has defeated warriors twice his age. He invites Minami to meet him in a nearby clearing for a formal duel, hoping to test her skill and reputation.
Minami's father warns her that the Takeda clan's style is unique and brutal. Though she is still new to the way of the sword, he trusts her instincts and agrees to let her face Kaito. With her heart pounding, Minami sets out to the appointed spot, accompanied by her younger brother and a few of her clan members.
As she faces Kaito, she feels a rush of adrenaline. This is her first real fight, her first test beyond practice drills. She can sense Kaito's strength as he watches her with focused eyes, and the two warriors bow in respect before drawing their swords.
The duel begins with a whirlwind of strikes and parries. Kaito's movements are sharp and almost impossible to read, but Minami finds herself adapting quickly, countering each strike with her own fluid style. They are both evenly matched, each testing the other's limits.
In the final moments, Minami makes a risky move, lunging forward with a bold attack that catches Kaito off guard. The duel ends in her favor, leaving both warriors out of breath and impressed by each other's skill. Rather than resentment, Kaito admires Minami's strength and determination, and the two leave the battlefield with newfound respect.
After the duel, Minami realizes that her desire to grow as a warrior won't be satisfied within her village. She yearns to seek out stronger opponents beyond Japan. As she returns home, she begins planning her journey—a quest that will take her to the farthest corners of the world.
---