As the heir to a family of swordsmiths, An An spends every day learning how to care for swords: how best to apply clove oil, how to appreciate a blade and understand the history behind it, how to respect every sword... and how to wield one.
But when the moment comes, An An refuses to use a sword and pretends she never learned how.
???? How arrogant... To wield a sword that has given birth to a Tsukumogami? When the young man before her asks her to use him properly, An An smiles shyly.
“Please don’t say that, my lord. I’m just a swordsmith. Well... I never learned how to use a sword, either!”
“Eh? Me... your master? Pfft... Ah, I’m sorry. I didn’t think you’d joke with me like that, my lord.”
“Ah? My lifespan...?”
“You may find this frightening, my lords, but strictly speaking, I’m not human... Still, please don’t worry. I won’t hurt you.”
“Ah... Am I about to set off on another journey?”
“Even though I’ve only just met all of you wonderful lords, I hope you’ll be safe and happy, do what you want, and always be joyful.”
“My name?”
“I don’t have an official name... But my family calls me An An. It means peace and happiness.”
Theme: A spin-off novel inspired by Touken Ranbu
