(* Conversation*)
A lot of time had passed. All of them were scattered around the training ground , immersed in various tasks.
Nobaya had started writing something again.
Suddenly, someone entered the place.
"Nobaya," the man called out with a grave tone.
"Master," Nobaya stood up and bowed his head in deep respect.
"How far has everything progressed?" the Master asked as he stepped inside.
"Everything is happening exactly as you envisioned, Master. They have learned about their powers. Each of them has awakened their respective stages much faster than a normal Sepahan would."
This was news that brought great satisfaction to the Master.
He walked slowly toward the window and stood there. From that vantage point, he could clearly see the boys scattered in different spots, focused on their own tasks.
Some were reading the papers you received, while others were busily taking notes for easier reference. They were all deeply immersed in their work. The Master observed everything from where he stood.
He then stepped outside and stood on the veranda. Just like Nobaya had noticed, he too could sense the change in the atmosphere. A mixture of cold and heat seemed to hang heavily in the breeze.
The Master gripped his sword close to his side.
"Nobaya... did you notice? The air feels heavier now," the Master said, looking around.
"Yes, Master," Nobaya replied. "That is the change brought by them unleashing the power within."
"Indeed, Master. It happened faster than expected. Jinso... his wounds healed so incredibly fast. But where will that sword lead him?" Nobaya's voice carried a hint of concern.
The Master understood the worry in Nobaya's words. "Do not be discouraged, Nobaya. They did not choose the power; the power chose them. Therefore, we should not despair. Those powers will guide their every step more carefully than they could themselves," he said.
He continued, "Each of them is progressing in their own way. Haru is different; his sword has begun to hear the wails of spirits. He sees what others cannot. While that is a blessing, it must not be misused."
"And what about Sai...?" Nobaya asked. Hearing this, Daisho gave a small smile.
"Let him advance on his own. It was his inner thoughts that were holding him back. Let him conquer his own mind and move forward." Daisho paused for a moment. "However, I suspect that when he freezes the air, his heart might be freezing as well, Nobaya. If that ice does not melt..."
The Master stopped and let out a deep sigh.
"He will become a warrior without emotion," Nobaya finished the sentence.
"Izuma... he surprised me, Master," Nobaya added. "It's as if there is something more within him. It's as if he knows things the others don't."
"Nobaya... the four are growing in four different directions: Spiritual Wisdom, Ice Control, the Dark Abyss Fire, and the Long Silence of the Wind. Only if these four stand together can they face Him."
"Are they ready, Master? The enemy's Black Mist has already started to spread."
Daisho turned to go back inside. "There is no more time to 'get ready.' Their weapons will lead them now. Let us wait and see... who will prevail in the war to come....."