Synopsis

A mentor figure advises the protagonist to discard his current martial arts forms to reach a higher level, stating his younger brother has already surpassed what is expected for his age. The protagonist reflects on this advice, and in a separate event, is challenged by a clan captain who criticizes his style. He then requests training from two top martial artists, and undergoes a brutal and intense period of sparring, leaving those martial artists both improved and emotionally scarred. The chapter ends with the protagonist departing and the clan relieved at his departure.