Niitsuma Kan couldn't stop clamoring in his heart: Why is this Tachibana Aoto so warmly received by Chiba Shigetarou?! Is it because of his decent looks or his outstanding abilities?
Niitsuma Kan had always heard of Aoto's reputation and achievements, but he didn't think much of Aoto's abilities.
Niitsuma Kan had quite a bit of confidence in his own talent and abilities.
He admitted that being able to achieve such feats as seriously impacting the "Radical Anti-foreigner Faction" within just three months showed that Aoto had some skills, but Niitsuma Kan felt that if he were put in Aoto's position, with his capabilities, he could achieve the same... or even surpass Aoto's accomplishments!
Niitsuma Kan was not alone—many young swordsmen held similar thoughts: believing that if they were put in Aoto's position, they could achieve results not inferior to, or directly surpassing, those of Aoto.
I wonder if I'll get the chance to face this Tachibana Aoto in this competition...
