"Miss Sakura, what do you think a sword represents?"
In a world scattered with cherry blossoms, Raiden Mei, who had been polishing the spiritual blade, suddenly posed the question to Sakura, absorbed in quietly appreciating the flowers.
Taken aback, Sakura turned, offering a gentle smile.
"Why do you ask?"
"I feel somewhat lost. My family's swordsmanship style, Hokushin Ittō-ryū, is akin to Shenzhou martial arts—it utilizes Honkai Energy. Over time, I've refined it further through countless improvements. However, its power still falls short compared to that of a Herrscher. Should I continue with my sword or abandon everything I've learned and focus solely on developing abilities? This question continues to trouble me."
"In other words, you want to give up your swordsmanship?"
Sakura's smile faded as she watched Raiden Mei gently place the spiritual blade Yukiyasha onto the table, her brow furrowing.
It had been quite some time since Sakura first entrusted the blade to Raiden Mei. The concept of time was hazy within the World of Elysium, making it difficult to gauge exactly how much had passed. Nevertheless, Sakura knew that Raiden Mei had engaged Kalpas well over a hundred times by now, along with numerous sparring sessions with herself.
When she initially presented her former sword, Sakura intended for Raiden Mei to be its successor. Throughout their interactions, she never doubted Mei's aptitude or determination. But if someone wishes to forsake the sword altogether, perhaps they are not suited to wield such an extraordinary weapon after all.
Could it be that she had misjudged her pupil's potential after all?
Raiden Mei gently caressed the cool metal of her spiritual blade with tender movements, her eyes reflecting a softness like flowing water. With a sigh, she said,
"A master of martial arts once told me, with skills so divine they seemed almost supernatural, that I must choose between prioritizing swordsmanship or my Herrscher abilities. Despite pondering this for quite some time, I've yet to find an answer. Studying under Mr. Kalpa and you, Miss Sakura, has only reinforced my stagnation—did you ever face a similar dilemma?"
As Sakura listened, her delicate features softened, exuding warmth akin to a painting.
"So, this is your predicament? Yes, indeed. When one's swordsmanship fails to keep pace with their growing power, it becomes inadequate in combat. I too have encountered such a challenge. After all, we were among the first successful Fusion soldiers; how could there exist any sword techniques specifically designed for warriors at our level before us?"
"Then, how did you resolve it?"
"You should have seen the solution during our sparring sessions."
"...It's precisely because I admire Miss Sakura's fluid and graceful swordsmanship that I venture to ask this question. What is a sword? Sometimes, it feels like more of a burden, limiting my options during intense battles. Could abandoning rigid sword techniques and wielding abilities with greater freedom make me stronger?" Raiden Mei hesitantly posed her query, a hint of urgency creeping into her voice.
As she fought more battles, she increasingly felt hindered by indecision between using her sword or summoning lightning, affecting both speed and power at critical moments. Against Honkai Beasts or average opponents, she had ample time to choose, but facing adversaries like Kalpas and Sakura—just a momentary hesitation could spell defeat.
Continuing down this path would prevent her from ever truly transcending her limits and gaining greater strength.
Sakura picked up her sword, gently caressing its blade. With a sudden smile, she replied,
"Then simply let go."
"Huh?"
"I developed my own unique swordsmanship because Little Sister said she liked how I wielded a blade. Plus, with this custom-made weapon crafted by a brilliant scientist, it truly allows me to unleash my full potential. What is a sword? There's no need to ponder such philosophical questions too deeply—it's simply a weapon. If you want to get sentimental about it, this is the power that protects myself and my sister—so for you, just follow your instincts. The ultimate goal is gaining the strength to defeat Honkai, so whether or not you use a sword isn't crucial. Take Kevin, for example; he knows nothing of traditional sword techniques, yet who can withstand his Might of An-Utu?"
The exquisite longsword vanished from her hand as Sakura smiled warmly at Raiden Mei.
For a moment, Raiden Mei was speechless before managing a polite, slightly awkward smile. "You're right."
Indeed, she had a point. Why get tangled up in all those melodramatic thoughts? Kiana relies on brute force to overpower foes, Wendy amplifies her martial prowess exponentially, and Bronya uses intelligence and data for precise control... Each person has their distinct style. If unsure, one should experiment first; if unsuccessful, seek advice later. And as a last resort, there's always Zeke, capable of tailoring a combat style to anyone's needs.
"A sword is just a weapon! Miss Sakura, can I try wielding the spiritual blade again?"
"Oh? You're not giving up on it now?"
"Nope, I've grown accustomed to using swords. There's no need for me to switch weapons suddenly."
"That's the spirit. Struggle is expected—it's only natural! As a Herrscher, every step forward from here will be fraught with challenges. Embrace hardship; it hones your skills and resilience."
Sakura placed the spiritual blade gently into Raiden Mei's outstretched hands, imparting wisdom as a mentor to her successor.
With renewed determination, Raiden Mei ventured back into Kalpas' domain.
Some time later, she staggered back, legs trembling. A few steps short of reaching Sakura, she collapsed face-first onto the ground, extending one finger weakly before going completely still.
"Sip..."
Sakura took another sip of tea, gazing at the cherry blossoms. Feeling somewhat weary, she had no inclination to move.
I told you to endure more hardships, not go all-out against Kalpas! He gets more fired up with each blow—what a lunatic!
So what if you're a Herrscher? It's not like he hasn't dispatched them before!
"Ah!"
Sighing deeply, Sakura found herself momentarily lost in thought instead of rushing to care for Raiden Mei.
Meanwhile, Kiana squatted atop an iceberg, her face and body covered with frost and bloodstains. She continuously stuffed food into her mouth—these were various provisions Zeke had prepared beforehand.
"It's alright; it was just one brutal beating, no big deal! I'll keep trying next time; eventually, I'll manage to beat him!" Kiana reassured herself, sniffled, but resisted the urge to run out and seek comfort in Zeke's embrace.
"Mr. Su, I think I'm starting to feel... a sense of tranquility and emptiness. My Etheral Core is progressing!"
"Well done, you're indeed a bright child."
"Oh no, it's all thanks to Mr. Su's excellent teaching. Seele will keep working hard!"
"I believe in you."
In this world filled with birdsong, blossoms, azure skies, and fluffy clouds, both Su and Seele wore serene smiles on their faces.
"Whoosh!"
"Boom!"
In another world dominated by towering mountains, an invisible thread sliced through the landscape, effortlessly halving countless peaks. One after another, the severed summits tumbled down from their midsections.
"It worked! The stability and control of energy output have significantly improved, Fu Hua-sensei! Your suggestion was spot-on! Thank you so much!" Wendy joyfully embraced the composed Fu Hua, her face beaming with delight.
Initially stiff, Fu Hua gradually relaxed and returned the embrace, gently smiling at Wendy's petite frame.
In the elegant and classical opera hall, Bronya placed a small white sphere into Eden's hands.
Eden weighed it briefly before pressing a button on its surface. A bustling stage scene instantly appeared as a holographic projection, immersing her so vividly that she felt like being right there amidst the crowd.
"What is this?"
"A token of appreciation from Bronya. It's a Honkai Energy-powered projection device. Stored within are nearly all highly acclaimed live performances since the new century, including music, drama, and various cultural events. I hope you enjoy them."
"Ha ha, this is truly the best gift I've ever received. So, are you leaving then?"
"Yes, Bronya has gained enough knowledge. Thank you for your guidance, Sis Eden."
Bronya stood up from her seat among the audience and bowed to the graceful woman beside her.
Eden's eyes flickered uncertainly, and after a moment, she sighed softly.
"Stay for a few more days, at least until I can gift you your engraving. Keep up the good work, future little warrior!"
"Yes! Bronya will do her best! With Zeke by our side, we'll surely claim victory!"
"Zeke... Before leaving, could you both come listen to my performance together?"
"Certainly."
In response to Eden's tentative request, Bronya nodded decisively.
A graceful and radiant smile blossomed on Eden's face as she replied, "Wonderful! I'll make sure to prepare well. Hopefully, this art from fifty thousand years ago will captivate you too."
"I'm sure it will. Sis Eden, your voice is beautiful; your singing must be enchanting."
"Haha! How sweet of you! Here, take these small gifts then—don't hesitate. They're some precious gemstones I adore, aren't they lovely?"
Bronya accepted a small pouch filled with sparkling gems, her lips curving into a smile.
Everyone was striving in their own ways while, deep within the World of Elysium, Sin lay motionless on the lab table.
"Ready, my adorable little lab rat?"
"Just get started already; skip the small talk."
"Heh! Just as expected from that guy's associate, you have equally annoying sass! But don't worry, I separate personal feelings from work. You can trust me completely—I desire your success more than anyone else."
"Let's begin!" Sin calmly gazed at Mobius, showing no trace of fear.
She had to succeed; it wasn't merely confidence but unwavering determination.
Mobius flashed her charming smile, and metal tentacles carrying various substances and mysterious equipment slowly rose behind her.
Then, a chilling laugh, akin to hell's haunting melody, echoed throughout the laboratory.