[quote=Garrison] OOC: I just realized I missed a critical part of that statement, I left out the word Hope lol.Shusuke was confused, not as to the directions, those were very clear but more so, how he would ascertain his worth just based off a slash. "Is this mystical captain voodoo?" he asked himself, unsure of his methods but knew not to question him. If he wanted him to strike his tonfa than he would. Shusuke nodded, "Yes sir." he said softly. He withdrew his zanpakuto slowly, allowing it's blade to brush against the sheath every inch of the way and then holding it out in front of him, perfectly aligned with his body. His left hand now positioned itself below his right, assuming a two handed posture, that of the kendo way. Perhaps he wasn't able to do what Captain You Xang asked of him, his experience was but a pebble in a pond compared to the captains. Getting this right was critical. "Alright Tsukurite Yasuragi, flow into my blade. Be one with me, let us show the captain our strength!" he yelled to himself. He made one movement with his body, a lunge to close the gap between them. Shusuke's feet planted firmly in front of his notional opponent, his blade raised, looking no different than usual. He swung down hard, perhaps not with his full strength but pretty close. In the milliseconds before contact with Captain Yu Xang's tonfa, Shusuke reflected on this moment in time. [/quote] Daishin awaited Shusuke's attack. He smiled watching him really himself and his sword. "Now, don't hold back." He told him. Finally Shusuke charged and set his foot, relating his swing. Daishin merely raised his tonfa and let the blade fall upon it. He closed eyes as the sound of the clashing metal echoed for a couple moments. "We often mistake fighting as brutal conflict to get what we want. But the truth is it is another we try to understand each other. That is why when words fail we try and use force. The feeling of wanting to prove one's self when battling is you trying to make the opponent understand you. Every punch, every kick, every swing of the sword conveys more of what makes a person who they are. Their past, their experience, and reasons why they fight can all be pulled from a single strike." Daishin lowered his tonfa. "Always keep that strong spirit of hope. It'll serve to well in this squad."