I really like the historical setting of this work and how it captures the struggles of the time in regards to the purpose and meaning of swordsmanship training. Both characters are generally likable and I appreciate that their relationship is one that's grown over time and shared experiences. I absolutely love the clothing of that time period, even more so in its removal and half put on states, as was regularly depicted here. I also appreciate that both characters were depicted in an equally masculine and capable way, which to me makes them more believable and their relationship dynamics more interesting. As an fyi, thereis a bit of dub-con at two points (one where a character is kissed while asleep, the other where the characters engage in intercourse at the request of one who is drunk). As far as yaoi goes though, I think it was still generally tasteful and not particularly off putting.