Chapter 219 - Duel of Dawn

The martial compound's outer courtyard buzzed with life under a clear morning sky, the air crisp with the scent of dew and pine. Stone paths wound between lantern-lit walls, their soft glow lingering from the night, while the forested clearing beyond whispered with swaying trees. The special area—a wide, raked gravel training ground encircled by wooden fences and gnarled, ancient trees—stood ready, its surface pristine, practice dummies and weapon racks lining the edges like silent sentinels. Villagers from Tsukumo, their tunics patched but clean, mingled with compound guardians in flowing robes, their sashes tied tight, blades sheathed. Children darted between legs, eyes wide with excitement, while elders leaned on staffs, faces alight with anticipation. The crowd's murmurs swelled, a tide of awe and reverence, their voices carrying one name: Muramasa. They had gathered to witness the legendary swordsman in action, a moment to etch into the sanctuary's history.