Bab 237: Chapter 134 Charcoal Burning and Crows

Etalik, despite his age, moved briskly and powerfully, speeding along like the wind. His step was precise, his limbs coordinated, and his strides were soft and supple. As he walked, the old samurai would lead with his hips, his center of gravity shifting ever so slightly, creating a natural and leisurely rhythm.

Seeing this, Bertade's gaze sharpened, and he pushed off with his feet, running like a tiger. His long strides alternated, bringing with them a sense of anticipation for a leap, rhythmically harmonious yet bearing the pace of a leopard or tiger.

Xiulote was agile. Although he couldn't compare with the two seasoned warriors who had been tempered a thousand times, he had fully mastered the running techniques of a samurai. As the youth moved, his muscles were seamlessly integrated -- flexible, fast, balanced, and explosive -- embodying the four standards of combat readiness at all times.