輝丸
My life has always been filled with tranquility. My grandfather, a master among masters, has ensured that everything in this city — and perhaps the entire country — remained peaceful… or at least, from my point of view.
Since I was born, I've been treated as someone destined to inherit his legacy. My father, although undoubtedly powerful — more than anyone I've ever seen — never wanted to take his place. Even so, he always stood by his side. They say that when my grandfather was young, he and my father looked exactly alike. It's as if my grandfather had been born twice.
My family carries a tradition over 900 years old. We are part of a lineage of warriors that dates back to ancient times, and we've always stood out because of it. But my talent for combat is… lacking.
I've tried everything: Lysae cultivation and training, special diets, demanding routines… but nothing has been enough to meet the standards of my prestigious family.
Though I had my doubts at times, I set aside my complaints and decided to search for alternatives. If I couldn't stand out through strength, I would through intelligence.
I studied numerous combat styles from my country and managed to master four of them. Then, I fused them into a single technique — one that allowed me to use weapons, hand-to-hand combat, and the terrain as part of the fight.
It may not be a sophisticated style… but it lets me fight smart, even against those with greater power.
All of this led me to this moment, after a day of training with my father, when he pointed out many flaws in my style and use of Lysae. Even though I know all the theory, applying it in the heat of the moment is hard for me.
My grandfather has always been very kind to me. He constantly helped me refine my techniques. In fact, when he found out I was developing a new style, he offered to help reinforce and shape it.
According to him, my style made me shine more than when I tried to imitate others. I'm proud to be his grandson. He wasn't just powerful — he was kind and a great teacher. He gave clear instructions without hesitation.
But one day, some foreigners arrived in our country. Apparently, they had been summoned by my grandfather. They all looked filthy, with worn-out clothes… like beggars. And then, one of them did something outrageous:
"Hmm… He doesn't even look like he could beat a worm, old man," said the boy, staring defiantly.
It was unbelievably insulting — to say something like that to my grandfather, the Shisouken. A title reserved only for the highest-ranking masters in this country. People who not only teach but also govern entire regions under the direct command of the Emperor himself.
After that, I was ordered to escort them, and I couldn't hold back the urge to tell that ignorant fool to watch his back. I had to settle the insult made to my honorable grandfather.
So I went to him and asked him to arrange a duel between us at the upcoming banquet.
"Please, Grandfather! That idiot insulted you and treated you with no respect. He deserves to be punished!" I shouted, furious.
"Terimaru, didn't you see that I already punished him earlier? Just tell me you want to fight him to prove yourself as a warrior. That's what you've been seeking for some time now, isn't it?" my grandfather said, with his usual calm.
And deep down… I knew he was right. Maybe I just wanted to face him to test my own strength.
I wasn't able to attend the friendly matches held between nations, so I haven't had the chance to show what I'm capable of.
Here, everyone treats me like the heir of the Takeuchi clan. No one fights seriously against me. They don't even try to land a scratch…
"Seems like I struck a nerve, didn't I? Alright, I'll let you face him — but let me warn you about something. That boy already has experience in death matches. He's been through truly terrifying things, Terimaru.
If you don't want to get seriously hurt, give it your all. And if you can't… withdraw with pride," my grandfather said.
"But… he looks like he's at least a year younger than me, Grandpa… maybe more. How much of a difference can there really be between us in just that short amount of time?"
"You'll come to understand that age doesn't always dictate someone's strength. Don't underestimate your opponent. He won't hesitate to kill you if he sees the opportunity," he responded firmly."Now go prepare yourself. Since they're travelers, I know they won't be wearing formal clothes. They'll be ready to fight at any moment."
"I understand, Grandfather. Thank you."
With those words, I left to get ready. I was determined to teach that long-haired fool a lesson.
But… my grandfather's words left a bad feeling in my chest.