Chapter 88
"My illness can still be treated, but is there something wrong with my swordsmanship?" Zixu sheathed Yubashiri, its trembling blade finally settling, and asked humbly.
"It's not a major issue. In fact, it's a unique skill. You can harness the properties of vibration and impact in the future. There's potential in that..."
Ryuma had indeed seen much of the world. Unlike Tenzo and Gekko Hayate, who previously taught Zixu and constantly advised him to give up the sword, Ryuma was different. He thought, Look, even seasoned swordsmen say I have potential. That means there's no problem—I just need to keep practicing.
"So, what are you going to teach me next?" Zixu looked at Ryuma with anticipation, but the latter was sweating for some reason.
"......"
Ryuma was momentarily speechless. His own swordsmanship was entirely different from Zixu's, and he had no idea what kind of techniques the young swordsman was even practicing. It seemed like he had nothing to teach.
"In that case, I'll teach you about mentality," Ryuma decided. Since there was nothing to impart in terms of technique, guiding him on the right mindset was a good alternative. That was much easier.
"A swordsman must first have a heart as firm as a rock, unaffected by external temptations..." Ryuma began his lesson, explaining the importance of cultivating a strong mental state. Zixu listened intently.
Learning is a process. Only by remaining humble and eager to learn can one become a great teacher in the future. Everything learned today becomes a resource for future students.
---
Meanwhile, in Konoha, Zixu's clone had nearly completed his observation of the village's situation. There was no point in staying much longer.