Tangled Threads of Tradition and Love

C̶h̶a̶p̶t̶e̶r̶-18 🅟🅐🅡🅣2

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Akira leaned back against the wall again, letting out a slow breath, just as Huan approached. He hadn't even noticed Huan finishing up with the girls, but suddenly there he was, towel draped around his neck, a relaxed smile on his face.

"Akira," Huan said, his voice warm as always, "I've been meaning to ask you something."

Akira blinked, surprised. "About what?"

Huan scratched the back of his head, looking a little sheepish. "Swordplay, actually. I saw you training the other day and... well, you looked really good out there."

Akira felt his cheeks heat up slightly. Huan had been watching him? His stomach fluttered at the thought, but he quickly pushed it aside, trying to maintain his usual stoic expression. "You... want tips from me?"

Huan nodded. "Yeah, I figure you'd know a lot more about it than me."

Akira hesitated. Huan was asking him for advice? It felt strange—almost backward, since Akira always admired how naturally skilled Huan seemed to be in almost everything. But the sincerity in Huan's request made it clear he genuinely wanted help.

"Well," Akira began, his voice a little uncertain, "there are a few things I could tell you. For one, it depends on the kind of sword you're using. A katana, like what I train with, is a one-sided blade. It's designed for cutting more than thrusting, and the technique is a little different compared to a double-edged sword."

Huan's lips curved into a small grin, clearly appreciating the insight. "Yeah, I figured as much. I was hoping you'd give me some tips on the basics."

Before Akira could respond, Huan reached over to the rack of practice weapons and grabbed one of the double-edged swords. It was much broader than the slim, curved katana Akira was used to, but Huan handled it with ease. With a playful glint in his eyes, Huan turned and pointed the sword at Akira.

"Care to show me a few things firsthand?" Huan's voice had that playful edge. "We could duel."

Akira couldn't help but smile. Huan always had a way of making things seem less intimidating than they were. "Do you even know how to use a sword?" Akira tilted his head, teasing back. "I mean, you were asking for the basics a moment ago."

"Well, teach me then," Huan stepped closer, his tone sincere but still lighthearted. "I'm sure a brilliant swordsman like you must know how to handle a double-edged sword too."

It was true. Akira had been trained in multiple weapons since childhood, including double-edged swords. He hesitated for just a moment, then placed his practice katana back on the rack and grabbed a double-edged sword similar to the one Huan had picked up. The weight of the blade felt familiar in his hand, though it wasn't his preferred weapon.

"Alright," Akira relented, "let's begin."

Huan's face lit up with excitement, and Akira could feel a surge of warmth in his heart. He cleared his throat, trying to focus. "First, your stance. You want to stay grounded but flexible. Like this." He positioned himself, showing Huan how to plant his feet firmly but maintain enough movement for fluid motion. Huan mimicked his stance, and Akira stepped closer, adjusting his position by lightly tapping his knee and elbow. The proximity made Akira's heart race, especially when their hands nearly brushed against one another.

"Good, now," Akira said, forcing himself to focus, "with a double-edged sword, you'll want to be mindful of both edges. Unlike a katana, it can cut from either side, so your movements need to take that into account." He demonstrated a basic slash, and Huan followed his lead, his movements a little stiff but improving quickly.