WebNovels

Chapter 34 - Chapter 8.2: Jin's Backstory Part 3

"Hajime!" the sensei announced, marking the match's start.

Feeling confident, Jimin charged at Jin. He threw strikes with a mix of power and accuracy that showed years of practice, his sword slicing through the air in a way that clearly aimed to break through Jin's defenses without much effort. His movements were aggressive, telegraphing his intentions as he committed fully to each attack.

But Jin was already ahead. He didn't retreat or block directly. Instead, he flowed to the side like water around a stone, his movements so smooth and economical it appeared as if he were barely moving at all. His shinai moved in perfect sync with his body, creating a slight arc that not only deflected Jimin's aggressive approach but also redirected the force harmlessly away.

The sound of bamboo hitting protective gear rang through the quiet dojo, leaving everyone momentarily speechless. The sharp crack of impact echoed off the walls, speaking of perfect timing and technique.

That was a point for Jin.

In response, Jin gently tapped Jimin's wrist with minimal contact. But it was enough. Jimin's grip weakened, his fingers going momentarily numb from the precise strike to a pressure point. His shinai hit the floor with a clatter, the sound unnaturally loud in the sudden silence. Shock washed over Jimin's face as he looked down at his hand, then back at Jin, who had already reset himself into a ready stance, as if nothing remarkable had happened.

"Yame," Sensei Makoto called, though it was clear the match had already concluded.

The students surrounding the dojo exchanged whispers of awe for what they had just witnessed. Several leaned forward, eyes wide with disbelief at the effortless display of skill. Jimin stepped back, his once unshakeable confidence beginning to waver after tasting defeat. His face flushed with embarrassment as he retrieved his shinai from the floor, unable to meet Jin's calm gaze.

The silence that followed was thick with unspoken questions and newfound respect. Jin remained standing calmly in the dojo's center, his breathing steady and controlled, as if the intense exchange had been nothing more than a simple exercise rather than a demonstration of martial mastery.

"Yame," Sensei Makoto reiterated, his voice now imbued with greater authority and resolve.

Jin stepped back and nodded slightly, following the customary protocol.

"Impossible!" Park Jimin exclaimed, his words laced with frustration and determination, teeth clenched tightly. "I'm stronger! I'm faster! I've trained longer than you! Why can't I beat you?!"

Jin met Jimin's furious gaze without flinching. "Strength and speed aren't everything, Park-senpai. Your technique is excellent. I simply responded to what you showed me." His voice was calm, matter-of-fact, neither boastful nor apologetic.

Jin remained quiet for a moment, considering his response as he loosened his grip on the bokken, letting it rest at his side. The dojo's atmosphere was tense; students exchanged looks—some found the match entertaining, while others appeared confused about what had just happened.

After a moment, Jin stepped back and gave a deep bow, showing genuine respect for his opponent's courage, even in defeat.

Jin's gaze fell on Park Jimin, who was visibly agitated, a tick forming in his eye as frustration mounted.

"Tch." Park Jimin scoffed, a dismissive sound escaping his lips as he jerkily retrieved his fallen bokken. "I don't need your pity… And don't act superior to me, you freak."

Jimin casually shoved Jin's hand aside, leaning in to help without looking back.

"I'll remember this," Jimin muttered under his breath, just loud enough for Jin to catch the menace in his tone. "Next time, you'll be the one eating dirt."

His footsteps echoed sharply on the wooden floor as he strode away, leaving a trail of whispers and murmurs among the onlooking students, who buzzed with varying reactions to what had unfolded.

Jin remained where he stood, bokken resting at his side, caught in uncertainty. Had this moment earned him respect from his peers, or had he inadvertently forged a lasting rivalry?

Suddenly, a commanding voice sliced through the lingering tension.

Sensei Makoto stepped forward with a steady stance, arms folded neatly behind his back. His presence exuded both authority and calmness, naturally drawing every student's attention.

"Everyone," he began, his voice steady yet tinged with something deeper, "did you witness what just occurred?"

The students straightened, focused sharpening, pivoting completely to the instructor.

"Pay attention to the specifics of what transpired today," he continued. "Notice how Jin modified his stance slightly; observe how he adjusted his balance. It was his mastery of timing that became the decisive factor in the match."

Without averting his gaze from the students, he gestured subtly in Jin's direction.

"Before the bout commenced, Tsurugi Jin made a notable shift in his position. Rather than countering Park's aggressive strikes bluntly, he adapted, flowing with the rhythm of his opponent's attacks and seizing the moment."

He began pacing deliberately in front of the students, a steady rhythm echoing on the dojo's floor.

"Many of you focus solely on honing strength, speed, or memorizing techniques like a script. However, the essence of true swordsmanship lies in mastering your breath, your instincts, and controlling yourself."

His gaze scanned the students before pausing momentarily at Jin, a flicker of acknowledgment in his expression.

"Jin wasn't trying to dominate; therefore, his movements appeared fluid and unforced. He centered his awareness on timing and distance—concepts known as maai. Furthermore, the method he employed to disrupt his opponent's rhythm is referred to as kuzushi, an approach that unbalances someone not just physically, but mentally as well."

With deliberate intent, Sensei Makoto turned to Jin fully.

"Tsurugi Jin, you did well," he instructed firmly. "Continue your training."

Jin nodded, his expression calm and focused. "Yes, Sensei. I understand."

The venerable master offered the faintest of nods before shifting his attention back to the class.

More Chapters