First Step on the Path (Open)

[Kin Hachirobei]

"High praise indeed from someone as skilled as you. Thank you."

Kin would say just before he darted for Katsu's right side, spinning last minute to strike the flat of his blade to Katsu's left arm.

[Katsu]

Katsu smiles, and just as Kin heads in, he suddenly swipes to the side, looking to block the blade with his own.

Immediately after, he kicks out with his right leg, looking to catch Kin in the stomach to wind him!

[Kin Hachirobei]

Kin's blade would clang against Katsu's as his attack was blocked. Before he could respond the air would be knocked out of him as he doubled over. Gasping, he would swipe his sword back and forth as he attempted to find air.

[Katsu]

Katsu backsteps, looking to stay just out of reach before swiping down at Kin's swiping hand, aiming to strike his wrist with the flat of his blade to disarm him!

[Kin Hachirobei]

Kin would be disarmed! But not helpless. He would dart forward and attempt to grab Katsu's wrist as he shifted into Katsu and he would attempt to Judo throw Katsu over his shoulder!

[Katsu]

Katsu is thrown!

He flips with the throw, aiming to land on his feet and elbow Kin in the side afterwards.

[Kin Hachirobei]

Katsu successfully connects his elbow to Kin's ribs, which would send Kin stumbling off to the side holding his side. Taking a knee Kin would hold up a hand.

"I concede. You are too strong for me at this time."

Standing back up he would retrieve his sword and return it to it's sheathe.

"Thank you, for the match. It was good practice and even a better reminder to get stronger."

[Katsu]

Katsu sheathes his own sword, giving a small bow.

"It was my pleasure. You've already given me much to consider while developing my own style."

[Kin Hachirobei]

Kin would bow.

"Same, I will practice hard and maybe next time we spar I'll be the winner."

He would begin to chuckle, but then his aching ribs reminded him of the growing bruise.

"Oof. Ya definitely got some good hits in."

[Katsu]

"I would enjoy it regardless of the outcome."

Katsu laughs. He enjoys competition, after all.

"I try not to go overboard with spars. After all, if I were to seriously injure you, you wouldn't be able to improve and face me again. Then I won't learn from you."

[Kin Hachirobei]

Kin would checkle, gritting his teeth and bearing with the pain.

"And I thank you for that. Wouldn't be much of a learning experience if I got chopped to bits before I knew what was happening."

Looking around he would ask.

"So, where are you off to now?"

[Katsu]

"I was hoping you could tell me, somewhat."

He admits sheepishly.

"While I remember most of my way around, I'm not sure how much has changed in my absence. Do you know of a good swordsmith?"

One track mind.

[Kin Hachirobei]

Kin scratched his chin in thought.

"Well, that depends on what you're needing. If all you need is general upkeep or another blade, I can take care of that. Both of my blades here I forged myself. Though if you're looking for something a bit more over the top then I'd recommend you head into town and see if you can find a Smith there."

Kin would explain.

[Katsu]

"No... I can maintain the blade."

He shakes his head.

"I'm looking for something special."

[Kin Hachirobei]

Kin would nod.

"I understand. Well, I currently have someone working on a sword for me as well. A special sword. So, maybe he can help you too."

Kin would pull out a pen and some paper and jot down quick easy directions to get to the mans forge from where the two currently were. Then handed the paper to Katsu.

"Hes an old man that has been practicing his art for many years, there is no dispute that his is the best. But he only helps the people he likes. I'm sure he'll like you though. You've got a true warriors spirit, he will respect that."