[ His expression finally does soften, when he reads off Minato's surface thoughts. ]

Sword-fighting skills. Heh. If any unruly samurai turn up in the streets, I'll know who to call. Seriously, though —

[ He swings into one of the ViViD console chairs, and starts the process of uploading himself into the system. ]

"Getting stronger" includes, literally, just that. The body and the mind are connected. Physical strength improves your mental sharpness, your reflexes, and your stamina.