“I have easily defeated hundreds of men!” roared Katsuo as he sat with Sensei. “I have captured countless villages! All who see me run in fear! Only one as strong as I deserves such a perfect sword!”

“And what if,” asked Sensei, “the villagers don’t want to work for you?”

“Hah!” snorted Katsuo. “Then I burn their houses and destroy all they own for questioning me!”

“I’m sorry,” Sensei calmly replied, “but you are far too cruel and arrogant for this sword. Thank you for stopping by.”

Katsuo was furious. He stormed out of the swordsmith’s house, shouting curses at the master and the apprentice.

At first Michio was puzzled by Sensei’s decision. However, after some thought he realized that a sword born of humility must go to one who is truly humble.