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His defeat last week came hard. But Xikar was optimistic about the next one. He was caught off guard but now he knew what to expect. The fight went very similar to the previous one, only lasting just a little bit longer. Xik was able to blocking and counter most of Madarame's fastest attacks. But still in the end he was disarmed and defeated. This repeated for another three weeks. When asked for what was wrong with his fighting style Madarame only gave" Be the Willow" and observe the Willow tree that sat in the front yard, as vague forms of advice.

Xik was confused and frustrated he even contemplated just stealing the blade. But his conscience always came through and nothing came of his thieving ideas. He didn't fight the old man for a few days, he just sat watching the willow trees. The other bit of advice that was given "Willows bide other woods" Xik shrugged this off. What does a tree have to do with sword fighting? These thoughts were on Xik's mind even when they were doing basic house maintenance.

The Old man's house was old and needed to be repaired in some areas like the roof and siding. A storm was coming they worked silently Xik still a bit upset with himself and didn't feel like talking. They were prepping mainly for a small storm that was brewing on the horizon.

An afternoon came and went when the storm arrived. It was pretty heavy but nothing to worry about. Xik stayed outside on the porch watching the rain fall and listening to the thunder. Something about a "terrible" storm always relaxed Xik allowing him clearer thought. He watched as the wind blew through tearing down many trees. Pines, young red woods and maples all fell against the mightier wind. Only one tree was able to withstand the storm with ease. And that's when it dawned on Xikar what he needed to do.

-to be continued