35. Forged in Memory: The Sword's Resonance

Kouske's POV:

In the ethereal embrace of the Demiplane, the intoxicating surge of newfound power liberated me from the shackles that once confined my existence in the mundane world. Emerging from that otherworldly sanctuary, however, a pervasive force now entangles me, casting an oppressive shadow upon my once unbridled strength. The profound sensations I experienced in the Demiplane linger, an unwelcome burden that I strive to bury beneath the surface of my consciousness.

In the present, I stand before the recently erected smithy, a deceptive marvel that echoes the medieval era in its meticulous design. The two-story structure, despite its recent construction, wears the façade of antiquity with timeworn stone walls, carefully adorned with faux weathering to evoke the essence of bygone craftsmanship. The exterior, a deliberate illusion, showcases iron-grated windows through which the flickering glow of carefully tended flames adds an air of mystique to the scene.

As I push open the heavy wooden door, it reveals a dimly lit interior where the heady fragrance of heated metal intertwines with the rhythmic echoes of hammer strikes. The workshop within harbors a deliberate arrangement of traditional tools – aged anvils, sturdy tongs, and a central furnace that pays homage to a timeless craft. Despite its modern origins, this newly fashioned smithy breathes life into the spirit of medieval craftsmanship, embodying a deliberate blend of the old and the new.

Venturing into the realm of blacksmithing, I anticipate the growth of my bloodline skill with an expanding knowledge of weapons. The prospect of crafting legendary weapons excites me, and I've acquired insightful books on blacksmithing, potionmaking, and magical engineering from the Shop, offering a vast field with promising returns. Despite the challenges that lie ahead, my determination fuels this endeavor. This morning's routine training with the Azusawas took an unexpected turn.

Flashback:

In the heart of a forest clearing, Lavinia and I joined Uncle and Aunt, already engrossed in training Asagi on Youjutsu, Senjutsu, and Sword techniques.

Among Youkais, mastery of Senjutsu is a rarity, with most excelling only in Youjutsu—a magic exclusive to Youkai. Even the East Youkai leader relies solely on Youjutsu. However, Asagi-chan displays a unique affinity for Senjutsu, a rare ability that grants powers like Ki Manipulation, Aura Detection, and Healing. These capabilities are typically reserved for the esteemed Senins and high-ranking Youkais, making Asagi-chan's prowess truly exceptional in the mystical arts.

In this world, only a few stand out with the rare ability to wield Senjutsu—names like Kuroka, Koneko, Akeno, Yasaka, Sun Wukong, Bikou, Magari, Fujimai, and a chosen handful readily come to mind.

As my eyes fell upon Aunt's sword, an inexplicable resonance surged within me, my bloodline ability beckoning. Approaching Aunty, I greeted, "Hello. How are you all?"

"Oh, Miyamura-kun, it seems both of you are here," Aunt acknowledged, her tone warm.

"You should have come earlier. We've been training Asagi for half an hour already," Uncle chimed in, a note of jest in his voice.

"Sorry. I woke up late today. Had some work until late last night," I explained. Meanwhile, Lavinia engaged in lively conversation with Asagi-chan.

"Alright, now get ready. We should start," Uncle directed.

"Sure, but Aunty, let me see your sword for a moment," I requested.

Aunt, puzzled by the sudden interest, handed over her sword. As I held it, a cascade of magical, yellow lines unfolded, reminiscent of Emiya's Projection magic but with a distinct hue. Knowledge flooded my mind—snippets of Aunt's experiences, enhancing my own swordsmanship. Details about the sword's composition, materials, and techniques used surfaced, though not all experiences were within my grasp. It appeared that further development of my bloodline ability was necessary for complete understanding. The sudden magical phenomena left everyone astonished.

"What was that?" Uncle inquired, but an intense pain seized my head, a side effect of wielding the ability. Clutching my head, I winced, eliciting concern from Lavinia and Asagi, while Aunt and Uncle observed with worry.

"Ko-kun/Kouske, are you okay?" they both asked, rushing to my side.

"I'm perfectly fine now," I reassured them, Clarice's concern resonating in my thoughts, and Vritra, embodying wisdom as she advised resilience in my role as a dragon king's host, accompanied by a subtle, low snort.

"Are you sure?" Lavinia asked, her worry palpable.

"Yeah. It was just my first time using that ability. That's why," I explained.

"What was that light and those sudden marks on the sword?" Uncle pressed, earning a small glare from Asagi.

"He's a boy. He should have a strong mentality. Besides, I don't sense anything wrong with him," Uncle hurriedly defended himself, awkward laughter escaping him.

"Uncle's right. It was just a slight headache from using my bloodline ability. I used it on the sword, revealing memories and experiences. My understanding of the sword has deepened, and my swordsmanship has improved," I disclosed, leaving Uncle and Aunt visibly shocked.

"I never heard of the Sabnock's ability to see memories from weapons," Uncle admitted, dumbfounded.

"Neither did I. Perhaps not all of their abilities were public knowledge or it could be due to a mutation," Aunt speculated.

"Hmm. So you feel your swordsmanship has increased?" Uncle inquired.

"Nn," I replied affirmatively, prompting Aunty to assume a mock battle stance, her sword poised for a duel.

"Nn," I affirmed again, ready for the challenge.

I seized the initiative, employing Flash Steps to materialize right behind her. With a swift forward slash, I launched an attack she adeptly deflected, countering with a jab using the back of her hand. I skillfully distanced myself to evade the strike. Undeterred, she unleashed a flurry of sword slashes, each met with precise parries on my part. Realizing the need to escalate, a smirk played on her lips as she intensified her assault.

Her movements became a seamless dance of speed and agility, targeting my weaknesses with precision. Swords clashed, and punches and kicks were expertly woven into her repertoire. Despite my best efforts, I couldn't evade all her attacks. Multiple slashes left my body marked with bleeding wounds. While my own swordsmanship had improved, hers still held a superior edge.

In a strategic move, I utilized Cloud Steps, defying gravity to navigate the air in a serpentine dance, attempting to disorient her. The clash continued, sparks flying as our blades met. Eventually, we both paused, bodies marked with cuts and bruises—a testament to the intensity of our exchange. Though victory eluded me, there was a notable improvement from our previous spars.

If I were to unleash the full extent of my powers, victory might be attainable. However, this encounter is designed as a crucible to refine my swordsmanship, not a contest to ascertain superiority.

"Miyamura-kun, your strength has ascended once more. I sensed it the moment I parried your initial strike. Your swordsmanship has undergone a remarkable transformation, markedly smoother than our previous engagement," Aunty praised with a radiant smile.

"Thanks for the fight," I responded, catching my breath.

"You're welcome," replied Aunty. "Get some rest. You will be continuing with me next," Uncle said as he cracked his knuckles. He could get really enthusiastic when he fights, unleashing his inner beast with a distinctive fighting style. I just smiled nervously.

"That was great, Ko-kun. You both were like whoosh and whish," Lavinia chimed in, playfully mimicking sword swings with cute sounds. Laughter echoed, lightening the mood as her cheerfulness filled the air.

The scene shifted, with Lavinia and Asagi taking their turns in sparring. Eventually, the three of us headed to school together, the echoes of the intense clash lingering in the air.

Flashback end.

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