Wouldn't shinai be better, if we're just sparring? I'm not sure if I want to use my sword if it's not a situation where it's needed...

[ ---it's not as if he unsheaths it. the kumou blades are gone -- but the replacement is still 'a sword to protect'. he doesn't need the sharp edge, he doesn't need to draw blood to be able to protect those he needs to. ]

---Ah, I don't mind. When people say "Kumou", they usually think of Aniki first, so I'm used to it...