Kurogami Estate – Morning
The early morning air was crisp, carrying the scent of dew-kissed grass. The training grounds were serene, the silence only broken by the rhythmic thwack of a wooden sword meeting its target. Ryuujin, lost in his practice, moved with a grace that defied his age. Each strike and maneuver was deliberate, his body attuned to the flow of each motion.
His mind, however, was sharp as ever, analyzing every swing, every shift in balance.
Ryuujin (thinking): Too stiff in the upper body. My footing needs more control.
He adjusted, slicing through the air with renewed precision. The morning sun bathed him in a warm glow, illuminating the sheen of sweat on his brow.
A Whisper of Challenge
The murmurs started softly, growing louder as a figure approached the grounds. Clan members turned, their conversations halting. The whispers reached Ryuujin, but he didn't falter.
Clansman 1: "Is that him?"
Clansman 2: "Yes. The rising star... but from a branch family. Illegitimate."
The figure stepped forward—a young man with striking features, his gaze steady and respectful. His hair was tied back, his attire simple yet pristine. He carried a sword at his hip, its hilt worn but well-maintained.
Challenger (bowing slightly): "Young Master Ryuujin, I am Akihiro. I've heard of your recent victories. May I request the honor of a spar?"
Ryuujin paused, lowering his wooden sword. He studied Akihiro for a moment, noting the calm confidence in his stance.
Ryuujin (nodding): "Akihiro, is it? Very well. I accept."
Preparation for the Duel
A buzz rippled through the crowd as Ryuujin approached a nearby trainee.
Ryuujin: "May I borrow your sword?"
The trainee, wide-eyed, handed over the weapon without hesitation. Ryuujin inspected it briefly before stepping into the sparring circle.
Akihiro unsheathed his own blade, the metallic shing echoing in the silence. The two young men faced each other, the crowd holding its breath.
Ryuujin (calmly): "Ready when you are."
Akihiro (smiling faintly): "Likewise."
The Duel Begins
Akihiro moved first, a swift thrust aimed at Ryuujin's midsection. Ryuujin sidestepped, deflecting the attack with a fluid parry. Their swords clashed, ringing out in a series of rapid exchanges.
Akihiro's technique was refined, his strikes precise and relentless. Ryuujin, however, matched him step for step, relying on instinct and calculation.
Ryuujin (thinking): He's good. His form is nearly flawless. But there's a slight delay in his recovery after each strike.
Capitalizing on the observation, Ryuujin shifted his stance, launching a counterattack. Akihiro responded with equal vigor, their blades dancing in a blur of steel.
The Awakening
As their duel intensified, something clicked within Ryuujin. His vision sharpened, every movement slowing to a near crawl.
Ryuujin (thinking): This... is the Omni Eye.
The world around him seemed to pulse with energy. He could see Akihiro's movements before they happened, predicting each strike and parry.
Their final clash came in a whirlwind of motion. Ryuujin brought his blade down in a powerful overhead strike, meeting Akihiro's upward thrust. The impact sent a shockwave through the air, and then—
SNAP!
Ryuujin's borrowed sword shattered, fragments scattering across the ground. Both combatants froze, breathing heavily.
Ryuujin stepped back, lowering the hilt of the broken blade.
Ryuujin (calmly): "It's my loss."
Akihiro, however, sheathed his sword and shook his head.
Akihiro: "No, Young Master. Your sword was inferior. It would be dishonorable to claim victory under such circumstances."
The crowd murmured in awe at Akihiro's honesty. Ryuujin smiled, a rare expression of genuine respect crossing his face.
Ryuujin: "You're a man of principle, Akihiro. Join me for dinner tonight. I'd like to know more about you."
Akihiro bowed deeply but declined.
Akihiro: "I appreciate the offer, Young Master, but I must return. Another time, perhaps."
Ryuujin nodded, watching as Akihiro walked away, the crowd parting for him.
Reflection
As the training grounds emptied, Ryuujin sat beneath the familiar tree, deep in thought. His hand traced the hilt of the broken sword.
Ryuujin (thinking): He'll be a formidable rival. But today, I gained more than a victory—I gained insight.
His gaze drifted to the horizon, determination hardening in his eyes.
Ryuujin: "This is just the beginning."
--END--