Contents
Chapter 10: The Reason
Overview
Misaki reveals her combat prowess to Mamoru and corrects his technical flaws while guiding him to reclaim conviction: protect family. This bond deepens their trust and reframes Mamoru’s purpose beyond imperial propaganda. Closing domestic scenes highlight the younger sons, Hiroshi’s promise, and the simmering legacy of Takeru and Takashi’s rivalry.
Summary
Misaki surprises Mamoru by dueling him with a bokken, revealing refined technique that redirects his power. As they spar, Misaki exploits Mamoru’s predictability and overcommitment, teaches him to relax and cut decisively, and demonstrates feints and close-quarters counters despite her diminished speed and aching joints.
Shaken yet proud, Mamoru accepts his mother’s hidden skill. Misaki presses him to identify his reason for fighting beyond imperial narratives. She shares that, in her youth, she fought to protect those she loved and would have killed if necessary. Guided by this, Mamoru declares he would kill to defend his family, regaining conviction.
As fatigue ends training, Mamoru analyzes Misaki’s non-Tsusano techniques; Misaki refuses to discuss their origins. She explains setting aside fighting to protect her family by other means. A child’s cry interrupts, and Misaki refocuses Mamoru on what lies ahead.
Later, Misaki tends Nagasa and Izumo, then collects Hiroshi from school. Ameno Samusa praises Hiroshi’s exceptional control for his age, perhaps surpassing Mamoru someday. Walking home, Misaki cautions Hiroshi not to mention the past duel where Takeru defeated Takashi. Inspired, Hiroshi vows to grow strong.
Who Appears
- Misaki MatsudaReveals her fighting ability, instructs Mamoru’s technique and mindset, and frames purpose as protecting family.
- Mamoru MatsudaShocked but proud of Misaki; learns to relax, stop overforcing cuts, and anchors conviction in defending family.
- Hiroshi MatsudaCollected from training; praised for exceptional control; contemplates surpassing Mamoru and vows to grow.
- Nagasa MatsudaChatty toddler; struggles through snow with rudimentary jiya, providing comic relief and family texture.
- Izumo MatsudaInfant whose crying ends training; carried by Misaki during errands.
- Ameno SamusaElementary instructor who praises Hiroshi’s rare control and potential.