Mataja’s charge resembled a protagonist rushing at their lifelong nemesis in an ancient tale. It was as if he were saying, Our battle begins now!

However, his stance with the sword was clumsy, full of weak points; only his spirit was commendable. Of course, if victory could be won by sheer spirit alone, then there would be no need to train so diligently in martial arts. In that case, one could simply engage in self-hypnosis, become a “determined man or woman,” and win through grit alone.

Ting, ting, ting—their swords met, producing small, almost adorable clinks. It was clear Namgung …