CHAPTER 3: THE FIRST DUEL

Kazuki awoke the next morning to the sound of roosters crowing and the village stirring to life. His muscles ached from the previous day's training, but the pain was a reminder of the progress he was making. He pushed himself up, shaking off the remnants of sleep as he recalled Jiro's promise of sparring.

As he stepped outside, the sun hung low on the horizon, casting a warm golden light across the village. Jiro was already waiting for him in the courtyard, his wooden practice sword in hand and a focused expression on his face. Kazuki felt a mix of excitement and apprehension; today would be a test of everything he had learned.

"Today, you will face me in a duel," Jiro announced, his voice steady. "Remember everything we practiced. Focus on your form, your movements, and your breathing. This is not just a fight; it's a lesson in discipline."

Kazuki nodded, determination rising within him. He could feel the weight of the katana at his side, a reminder of his ancestral legacy and the duty he had to fulfill. Jiro stepped back, raising his sword in a defensive stance.

"Ready yourself," he instructed. "We begin on my mark."

Kazuki took a deep breath, centering himself. He adopted the stance he had practiced tirelessly—the feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and sword held firmly before him. Time seemed to stretch as he waited, every nerve in his body taut with anticipation.

"Begin!" Jiro shouted, lunging forward with surprising speed.

Kazuki reacted instinctively, raising his wooden sword to block Jiro's attack. The force of the impact sent vibrations up his arms, but he quickly regained his balance. He pivoted to the side, swinging his sword at Jiro, who deftly sidestepped, countering with a swift thrust aimed at Kazuki's midsection.

Kazuki ducked just in time, the tip of Jiro's practice sword grazing his hair as he narrowly avoided the blow. He rolled to his feet, breathing heavily, and prepared to strike again. This was nothing like the practice drills—this was real, and the stakes felt higher than ever.

"Good reflexes!" Jiro called out, a hint of approval in his tone. "But don't just react; think ahead!"

Kazuki took a moment to observe his opponent. Jiro was a master at reading movements, predicting Kazuki's actions before they happened. With newfound clarity, Kazuki shifted his approach, anticipating Jiro's next move.

As Jiro advanced again, Kazuki feigned a leftward swing before quickly redirecting to the right. He caught Jiro off guard for a split second, landing a light blow against his shoulder. Kazuki's heart raced at the small victory.

"Good! Now follow through!" Jiro shouted, his eyes gleaming with enthusiasm. He recovered swiftly, launching a counterattack. Kazuki barely managed to block the incoming strike, the impact rattling his bones.

The duel continued, each strike and parry becoming a dance of determination and skill. Kazuki was pushed to his limits, sweat dripping from his brow as they exchanged blows. Jiro's speed and experience were overwhelming, but Kazuki's resolve only grew stronger.

With a sudden surge of adrenaline, Kazuki stepped forward, swinging his sword in a wide arc aimed at Jiro's head. But Jiro was ready; he ducked and rolled to the side, coming up behind Kazuki. In an instant, he pressed the tip of his practice sword against Kazuki's back.

"Too predictable," Jiro said, a mixture of amusement and encouragement in his voice. "You must vary your attacks, keep your opponent guessing."

Kazuki sighed, the frustration evident on his face. "I can't help it! You move too fast!"

"Speed comes with practice," Jiro replied, lowering his sword. "You're making progress, but you need to learn to think strategically."

They took a break, both panting heavily. Kazuki leaned against the wooden post in the courtyard, trying to catch his breath. "What's next?" he asked, eager to continue his training.

Jiro considered him for a moment before answering. "Tomorrow, we'll focus on footwork and evasion. But today, I want you to learn about the code of the samurai."

Kazuki raised an eyebrow. "The code?"

"Bushido," Jiro said, his voice solemn. "The way of the warrior. It governs a samurai's actions, guiding them in life and death. Understanding this code is as important as mastering the sword."

Kazuki nodded, intrigued. The philosophy behind the samurai was something he had always admired, but now it felt crucial to his survival in this world. "What does it entail?" he asked.

"Loyalty, honor, courage, and compassion," Jiro replied, his gaze distant as if recalling memories from a life long past. "A samurai fights not just for themselves but for their lord, their family, and their people. You must learn to uphold these values."

As they spoke, the sun began to dip lower in the sky, painting the horizon in hues of orange and purple. Kazuki felt a stirring of purpose deep within him. If he was to truly embody the spirit of the samurai, he would need to embrace not just the sword but also the principles that came with it.

Later that evening, as they gathered around the fire, Jiro shared tales of his own battles—of comrades lost and the honor gained through loyalty and sacrifice. Kazuki listened intently, absorbing the weight of Jiro's experiences, feeling the gravity of the path he had chosen.

"Remember, Kazuki," Jiro said, his voice firm yet warm. "The sword is an extension of your spirit. Wield it with honor, and it will serve you well. Wield it without thought, and it will bring you only grief."

As night fell, Kazuki reflected on Jiro's words. The journey ahead would be difficult, filled with trials that would test not just his skills but his very character. But for the first time since his arrival, he felt a sense of belonging in this world—a purpose greater than himself.

Tomorrow, he would continue his training, honing his abilities and forging his destiny as a warrior. And perhaps, in time, he would uncover the secrets of his family's past, the mysteries that had brought him here, and his ultimate fate in this ancient land.