Chapter 31 (1/2)

Something Desired

Author’s note:

A rather short one.

「This, is it okay if I touch it?」

「Be careful.」

When I tried holding it, it gave off a heavy and weighty feeling. I take a stance while it’s still in its sheath.

Although it’s my first time, I have a sense of familiarity.

「Can I try pulling it out?」

Garum-san confirms with a nod, not being made to stop, I pull it a little out from the sheath.1

「Tsu」

A beautiful hamon on single edged blade appeared from within. Master had only once shown me a genuine one, this has an identical feeling to that.

At once, I returned it to the sheath and let out a huge breath after holding it in all this time.

「Excuse me, is it okay if I swing it for a moment?」

While being a little excited, Garam-san confirms.

「Mm, this place is narrow don’t ya think. There’s a place at the back if ya want to swing it. Follow me.」

Being guided by Garam-san, we reached a courtyard-like area behind the shop.

「It’ll be fine if it’s here.」

With a nod from Garam-san, I began from an iai stance and drew. Following a kesa swing, next I put down the sheath and sw.a.n.g it several times with both hands.

It’s my second time swinging a real sword, however, at the time when Master previously let me hold one, I’m sure the best I could do was swing it. To say nothing of handling a katana, I only have memory of swinging one.2

Although the length of this blade is shorter, is the difference only in the appearance?

I considered this at the time when I fought the wolf but, has my physical strength been increased since coming to this world? From the fact it’s been difficult for me to feel tired, it may be possible my own physical strength has risen.

Briefly finis.h.i.+ng my swings, I sheath the katana and return to the store.

「This, how much is it?」

I asked Garam-san as soon as I returned to the store.