The Python Was Injured

In front of her was a low square table made of sandalwood, and on it was a long, wrapped object. Unwrapping the package layer by layer, revealing the thing inside, it was a simple long katana.

Nakagawa Emi held the katana, making it stand up slowly, and with the long katana sheath crossed at the waist, her right hand held the handle, as she suddenly shouted melodiously. Then, with her hand holding the long katana, she managed an absolutely superb skill of knife extraction, one which was impossible to do without years of practice.

Also, it was a trick that could be directly awarded Menkyo Kaiten (initiation into the secrets) by the chief examiner of the new swordplay. Being awarded Menkyo Kaiden means that you have reached the realm of the master and can go to the ministry of teaching.

"Whew!" Nakagawa Emi gave a long sigh, grabbed a towel, and wiped the fine beads of sweat from her forehead. She then went outside.

"How are things going?"