“Each of the Sword Circle’s secret arts carries its own meaning…. The ‘Path of the Heavenly Sword’ is also a road that follows those roots back to their origin.”
“Why didn’t you tell me sooner?”
“Was there any need? Outsiders who would leave without even properly learning the secret arts.”
Her answer to my deflated question was firm.
At first glance, it was difficult to find any contradiction in those words.
Even so, I couldn’t shake the uncomfortable feeling in my chest.
Wasn’t I the Sword Duke’s disciple?
The Sword Duke had once been a practitioner of Heavenly Sword Mountain.
It was difficult to classify me completely as an outsider.
Wasn’t that precisely why the Grand Instructor had granted me the special privilege of meeting with her separately?
Even as my thoughts deepened, Instructor Mu continued speaking.
“It is an ancient story…. In primordial times, humanity was created in solitude.”
As she recited those words, the woman gradually adjusted her stance.
Her posture was both graceful and sharp, reminiscent of a dagger concealed within one’s robes.
“Because humanity belonged nowhere. Humans have always been incomplete beings, standing somewhere between heaven and earth.”
There was nothing in particular for me to add.
Following Instructor Mu’s lead, I likewise adjusted my grip and stance.
“That is why humans have always yearned for heaven. How could they not? They stand upon earth that turns to mud whenever…