THE DAY OF THE COMBAT test had finally arrived after three weeks of intense underwater training. Kasaki had been relentless, sneaking out of the house every night to practice alone, sacrificing sleep for skill. Despite his exhaustion, he pushed himself further each day, now completing a staggering five thousand blows underwater before allowing himself to rest.
After each grueling session, he would sit beside Mikamoto, exchanging words until sleep claimed him. Even in the noisy daylight by the river, Kasaki managed to find rest, a testament to his sheer fatigue. Mikamoto would rouse him when the others were finishing up, signaling it was time to return to the house.
Though he grabbed only a few hours of sleep, Kasaki would soon be back outside, training alone or occasionally joined by Mikamoto. With each passing day, his strength and speed grew exponentially. He could now endure three full minutes underwater and deliver one hundred and fifty blows with his blade before needing to surface for air.
His remarkable progress was a testament to his unparalleled work ethic. It hadn't gone unnoticed; the master, Mikamoto, and their fellow trainees all recognized Kasaki as the hardest worker among them. However, Kasaki doubted whether the others, particularly Mikono and Kinsu, were aware of his nightly escapades to train alone. He speculated that they were oblivious; otherwise, their competitive spirits would drive them to follow suit. Yet, Kasaki remained unconcerned. In fact, he welcomed the idea of them joining him and would cheer them on if they did. However, that scenario had yet to materialize.
As he reflected on his training, Kasaki realized that his sparring sessions with Mikamoto had markedly improved over time. The second night Mikamoto joined him, Kasaki found himself outmatched, prompting Mikamoto to reveal that he had been holding back during their initial bout. This revelation humbled Kasaki, as he had entered the second fight overconfident in his abilities against Mikamoto. "Never become overly confident," Mikamoto advised, his tone firm. "The delicate balance between confidence and doubt is akin to a tidal wave swaying back and forth: when you're plagued by insecurity, summon the courage to trust in your abilities and give it your all; and when arrogance threatens to take hold, exercise caution to prevent complacency and maintain your commitment to giving your best effort. Effort, you see, is the linchpin here. A wholehearted effort keeps us humble and grounded. The moment doubt creeps in, and you question your capabilities, you'll find yourself navigating through life with half-heartedness, lacking belief in yourself and your endeavors. The same holds true for excessive cockiness, where you begin to view others as inferior and withhold your full effort. That's when disaster strikes, and everything unravels. Always approach every task with unwavering dedication and maximum effort. That's the essence of the samurai way."
Kasaki relished the rare moments when Mikamoto opened up. Despite his usual quiet demeanor, the master's trusted confidant freely shared his wisdom, and Kasaki felt privileged to receive it.
As they made their way back to the house in the early morning light, with the sun painting the eastern sky, Kasaki broached the topic that weighed on his mind. "Be honest," he prompted. "How do you think I'll fare against the master?"
Mikamoto didn't hesitate with his response. "I believe you possess the capability to challenge him," he replied candidly. "While Mikono and Kinsu may excel in evasion, it's your ability to execute a swift, unexpected attack that sets you apart, if you rise to the occasion."
"Why wouldn't I rise to the occasion, sir?" Kasaki asked, his tone resolute.
Mikamoto let out a sigh before responding, his words weighted with wisdom. "You see, Kasaki, there are pivotal moments in a man's life. For a warrior, these moments are even more profound. You're on the path to becoming a warrior yourself. Amidst all the physical preparation, strategic studying, and meticulous care you invest in your training, there's something even more crucial: your mindset. When the moment of truth arrives, if you harbor any shred of doubt or lack belief in yourself, it doesn't matter how prepared you are. Your opponent will sense your uncertainty, and you'll find yourself at a disadvantage. It's a difficult concept to articulate, but those who have faced battles firsthand understand it well."
Kasaki's brow furrowed as he pondered Mikamoto's words.
"So, you're advising me not to be intimidated by the master?" he clarified.
"Exactly," Mikamoto affirmed with a smile. "Approach the challenge with the mindset of a hunter. He's your prey."
A sense of understanding dawned on Kasaki's face as he grasped the essence of Mikamoto's advice.
***
As they gathered in the front yard, anticipation crackled in the air like electricity. The master's arrival drew everyone's attention. Kinsu and Mikono exuded a newfound strength, their muscles visibly more defined compared to weeks prior. Even Tinoue, though nervously fidgeting, seemed more toned and alert. Mikamoto conversed with Nagai and Sisuke, their words carrying a sense of camaraderie that Kasaki couldn't quite make out.
"Alright, everyone. The moment has arrived," the master announced, his tone surprisingly upbeat, as though they were embarking on a joyous adventure. "Today, I expect to see the fruits of your labor reflected in your skills. Your task is simple: touch me. Whether with your feet, hands, elbows, or sword, it matters not. That's your challenge."
With a pause, he scanned the group. "As there's no specific order, step forward if you're ready to be tested."
Kasaki hesitated, torn between eagerness to face the master and the desire to observe first. He knew Kinsu would likely demand to go first, seeking redemption. Perhaps, he reasoned, watching the master in action again would provide valuable insights.
Mikono and Kinsu stepped forward, drawing the attention of everyone present. The master, with a serene smile and closed eyes, spoke gently. "As I suspected, Kinsu, I owe you a rematch. Mikono, you're up next. Please wait your turn."
With a nod, Mikono acquiesced, taking a step back as Kinsu advanced, brandishing his sword. The master mirrored his movement, both warriors poised for action. As they closed the distance between them, tension crackled in the air. Suddenly, Kinsu launched into his attack, his movements noticeably quicker and more coordinated than before.
To Kasaki's surprise, the master gracefully evaded Kinsu's strikes, effortlessly sidestepping and backtracking. Though he hadn't yet made a move to counter, Kasaki observed a subtle shift. The master seemed to exert more effort in avoiding Kinsu's attacks this time. Despite this, Kasaki couldn't shake the feeling that Kinsu stood little chance of making contact with the master.
The master's speed wasn't merely a display of physical prowess, Kasaki realized. It stemmed from an unparalleled combat awareness, a calm demeanor belied by his keen eyes, which seemed to track every movement of his opponent. With precision timing, the master lowered his torso, allowing Kinsu's sword to whistle harmlessly past. Seizing the opportunity, he swiftly rose, delivering a powerful punch to Kinsu's stomach, leaving him momentarily winded.
Despite the master's decisive blow, Kinsu appeared unfazed. He quickly rallied, launching a flurry of attacks that seemed to be his last desperate effort. Each strike was intense, coordinated, and lightning-fast. Kasaki watched with a mix of anticipation and concern, realizing that if Kinsu failed to land a blow now, he would likely exhaust himself, leaving himself vulnerable.
As Kinsu pressed on with his relentless assault, Kasaki couldn't help but admire his determination. The ferocity of Kinsu's attacks reminded him of his own underwater training sessions, where he pushed himself to hold his breath for up to three minutes. Kinsu moved with a dangerous grace, his katana flashing through the air like a deadly dance.
But despite Kinsu's valiant efforts, they proved futile against the master's skill. Sensing Kinsu's fatigue, the master ceased his evasive maneuvers and delivered a swift kick that caught Kinsu off guard, sending him crashing to the ground. With precision, the master placed his sword against Kinsu's chest, signaling the end of the duel.
"You're almost there," the master's voice cut through the air, carrying a weight of sternness that Kasaki had never heard before. His words were sharp, like the edge of a blade. "But you still lack discipline. You're too emotional, too quick to anger. If you could rein in your temper, you would have had me in three minutes flat."
The master's criticism struck Kasaki hard. He had always prided himself on his strength and aggression, but now he realized that those qualities alone were not enough to make him a true samurai. He needed the cold-blooded composure that the master spoke of, the ability to control his emotions even in the heat of battle.
As the weight of the master's words settled over him, Kasaki felt a newfound determination welling up inside. He would prove himself worthy of the samurai title, no matter what it took.
"Mikono, you're up next," the master's voice rang out, cutting through the tension in the air. Kasaki observed, surprised that the master, usually reserved, remembered each trainee by name.
Mikono stepped forward, a picture of calm determination. Unlike Kinsu's reckless charge, Mikono moved with a calculated grace, circling the master, searching for an opening. His sword remained poised, waiting for the perfect moment to strike.
As Mikono lunged, his blade flashed towards the master's exposed neck. For a split second, it seemed as though victory was within his grasp. But the master, ever vigilant, deftly countered, their swords clashing in a shower of sparks.
Undeterred, Mikono pressed on, his attack relentless. With a swift change in tactics, he aimed a blow towards the master's legs before redirecting towards his neck. The master, recognizing the imminent threat, moved to block, their swords meeting with a resounding clash.
However, Mikono wasn't finished yet. With a quick feint, he maneuvered behind the master, landing a solid punch to his ribs with his free hand. It was a move of calculated precision, a testament to Mikono's skill and determination.
As they disengaged, the master nodded, a silent acknowledgment of Mikono's success. He had passed the test, proving himself a worthy contender.
"Excellent work, Mikono," praised the master, his voice carrying a note of genuine admiration. "Your strategy was astute. Congratulations, you've earned it. You're ready to delve into the realm of magic."
Mikono acknowledged the master's words with a bow, sheathing his sword with a practiced fluidity. Returning to his original position, he crossed his arms, an outward display of composure that belied any inner turmoil.
Kasaki watched, awestruck by Mikono's seamless victory. While Kinsu had struggled to lay a finger on the master, Mikono had achieved it with apparent ease. Was the master truly exerting his full combat prowess? Or was he holding back, as Mikamoto once had during their training sessions?
With Mikono's success, a new wave of uncertainty washed over Kasaki. If the master now fought with unrestrained ferocity, would any of the other trainees stand a chance? Mikono's triumph threatened to overshadow the rest, casting doubt on their own abilities.
"Now," announced the master, his voice commanding attention. "Who else is prepared for the test? Step forward."
Feeling a surge of anticipation, Kasaki hesitated briefly before taking a determined step towards the master. He had absorbed every detail of the previous two bouts, analyzing the master's every move, and now he was ready to put his own skills to the test.
"Kasaki," acknowledged the master, a hint of amusement in his voice. "I was surprised you didn’t step forward with the others initially. But better late than never. Let’s see what you’re made of. I've noticed your nocturnal training sessions outside the house. Dedication like that doesn’t go unnoticed."
"I wanted to be prepared," Kasaki admitted, meeting the master's gaze squarely.
The master nodded approvingly. "That's the kind of dedication we value here. But be warned, I'll be a bit tougher on you. You have an advantage the others don’t, after all."
With determination etched in his expression, Kasaki accepted the challenge with a confident smile. He tightened his grip on his sword, feeling the weight of anticipation in every muscle. As he advanced, his movements were swift and calculated, putting the master on the defensive from the outset. Yet, there was a gleam of amusement in the master’s eyes, a knowing smile that hinted at the challenge ahead.
"Come on, Kasaki," the master taunted, effortlessly parrying each of Kasaki's strikes. "I know you've got more than this. Are you just sizing me up?" With a sudden burst of speed, the master aimed a punch at Kasaki's stomach, but Kasaki was ready, deflecting the blow and seizing the master's wrist in a quick countermove.
Leaping into the air, Kasaki's determination was palpable. The master mirrored his movements, accepting the unspoken challenge. In a flurry of motion, their swords clashed midair, but Kasaki's blade was quicker. As they landed back on solid ground, a small strip of fabric fluttered down from the master's sleeve, severed cleanly by Kasaki's blade.
A moment of surprise flickered across the master's face, quickly replaced by a sense of respect. He had underestimated Kasaki's speed and precision. Despite his efforts to evade, Kasaki had found a momentary opening, seizing it with skillful precision.
The master let out a sigh, a subtle acknowledgment of Kasaki's achievement. Today, the student had proven himself a worthy adversary.
"Congratulations, Kasaki. You've passed the test," the master exclaimed, admiration gleaming in his eyes. "That was truly remarkable. Your speed took me by surprise. Keep up the hard work – it will undoubtedly lead you to great heights."
Despite the trickle of blood staining his forearm where the master's sword had grazed him, Kasaki felt a surge of pride swelling within him. He knew that the master hadn't even noticed the initial strike. With precision honed from countless solitary nights of training, Kasaki had executed the maneuver flawlessly. It was a testament to his dedication and unwavering determination.
As he stood there, basking in the glow of his achievement, Kasaki couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of purpose coursing through his veins. The dream of freeing his parents from Misuki's clutches burned brighter than ever within him. It was a dream that had sustained him through the darkest of nights, fueling his relentless pursuit of mastery.
Reflecting on those solitary moments of exhaustion, when he had leaned against the worn trunk of a tree, Kasaki remembered the pivotal realization that had ignited his resolve. In that fleeting instant, a vision had unfolded before him – a vision of unwavering focus and dedication.
"If I dedicate myself entirely to my dream, working tirelessly every day without distraction," he had mused, "then perhaps, just perhaps, the odds of success are in my favor."
Through relentless action and unwavering commitment, Kasaki had undergone a profound transformation. With each passing day, his belief in himself had solidified, paving the way for the realization of his wildest aspirations.
Kasaki plopped down beside Mikono, his curiosity piqued. "Hey."
Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.
"Hey," Mikono replied, his expression unchanged.
"So, it looks like you and I are the first two trainees to pass," Kasaki observed.
"Yeah, seems like it," Mikono agreed, his tone serious as always.
"Mikono," Kasaki began tentatively, "how did you manage to beat the master so quickly? I've been burning the midnight oil, training solo every night. I thought that's what gave me the edge today. How'd you pull it off without any extra training?"
Mikono's response caught Kasaki off guard. "I trained by myself, too."
Kasaki's eyes widened in disbelief. "What? When? I never saw you out in the woods. How is that even possible?"
Mikono chuckled, a rare display of amusement crossing his usually stoic face. "I noticed it the first night you sneaked out of the house. My first thought was, 'Ah, Kasaki's probably out in the garden, bawling his eyes out for his parents like the crybaby he is.' But when dawn broke and you stumbled back in, looking like you'd been hit by a truck, I realized you were up to something else. You had those epic eyebags and everything. So I put two and two together: Kasaki's been training solo."
Kasaki grabbed Mikono's shirt, yanking him closer with a mix of annoyance and disbelief. "Why'd you have to go all lone wolf on me? You couldn't just tag along and be my training buddy? You're such a selfish jerk, Mikono. Honestly, you wouldn't know the meaning of friendship if it smacked you upside the head!"
Mikamoto glanced at Kasaki, who was giving Mikono a hard time, and couldn't help but smile. Tinoue was up next for his test. Those who didn’t pass today would have one more week to train before they could try again. But the real excitement was just beginning. Tomorrow morning, Mikono and Kasaki would start learning magic. With the looming war, time was running short. Mikamoto felt a growing sense of anticipation. He hadn't pushed himself since Kasaki's last training mishap. He was ready for the battle to commence, eager to see who would emerge victorious.
"Congratulations to both of you," Mikamoto said.
Mikono merely nodded in acknowledgment.
"Thank you, sir," Kasaki replied. The trio observed Tinoue's anxious attempt to land a blow on the master, his nerves evident in his aggressive yet futile attacks. Despite Tinoue's improvement, the master swiftly incapacitated him with a punch to the face. Another failed test. Among all the trainees, only Kasaki and Mikono had succeeded.
"You two will be captains," Mikamoto declared.
"Huh?" Mikono responded, clearly puzzled.
"Yes, that's correct. The first trainees to pass the physical combat test are elevated to a higher rank. Despite being a small army, we adhere to a hierarchical structure," Mikamoto explained.
Kasaki hesitated, contemplating the implications. "So, does being a captain mean they won't fight alongside us? Will us be issuing orders while the rest of them do the fighting?" he pondered.
"No," Mikamoto clarified. "Being of a higher rank doesn't mean you'll be inactive. You'll still fight on the front lines. However, it entails authority over others, requiring you to devise strategies and issue orders that must be obeyed."
"Understood," Kasaki acknowledged. "That's a significant responsibility."
"Yes, it is. That's how our system operates," Mikamoto affirmed.
"Mikamoto, do you think we have a chance?" Kasaki inquired, expressing his concerns about the future.
Mikamoto smiled at Kasaki's perpetual concern for the future. Initially contemplating silence, he eventually chose to respond.
"Presently, we're far from it. Each of you needs to master magic first. Only then will we be a formidable opponent for Misuki's army," Mikamoto explained.
Mikono chimed in with a question. "Who taught them magic?"
Mikamoto nodded thoughtfully. "That's a valid question. Misuki has vast resources at his disposal, controlling the kingdom's oil. He can afford to hire any wizard in the world to train his men. It's an uneven playing field. While he has resources, we have justice on our side. Let's see whose cause prevails in the end."
Mikono closed his eyes and crossed his arms, appearing unfazed. Perhaps none of his family members were subjected to forced labor, or maybe he joined the samurai army solely for the allure of glory and combat, Kasaki speculated. Regardless, delving into Mikono's thoughts seemed futile. Instead, Kasaki resolved to devote himself wholeheartedly to mastering magic. He envisioned creating innovative spells to benefit himself and his fellow samurai in battle. Despite feeling somewhat resigned, he recognized that his only recourse was to outwork everyone else. This pursuit brought him a sense of peace, knowing that even if victory eluded him, he had exerted every ounce of effort to prepare. It was this diligence that would ultimately bolster his confidence on the battlefield.
***
The next morning, Kasaki and Mikono were summoned to the front yard, the silence of dawn enveloping them. There, they encountered Nagai, another samurai in service of the master, who stood alongside their mentor. Kasaki inquired about Mikamoto's absence, to which the master explained that Mikamoto was in charge of physical training, and Nagai would guide them in harnessing their magical abilities. With his customary serene demeanor, the master reassured them of this transition.
"Alright, let's move," Nagai commanded, prompting the two young men to exchange a glance but refrain from questioning their new instructor. They followed Nagai out of the house, setting off on a path toward the north. Along the way, a looming, cloud-shrouded mountain served as a familiar landmark from their journeys through the Wild Forest. Nagai led the way, his stern countenance giving the impression of a sour mood, though Kasaki suspected it was merely his demeanor. Clad in black attire that obscured most of his physique, Nagai exuded an air of military discipline as they trekked in silence.
The brisk breeze grew chillier as they neared the mountain's base, and abruptly, Nagai halted their march in the desolate expanse. Despite appearing to be within close proximity, the mountain loomed several miles ahead, shrouded in an aura of mystery.
"Tell me what you see," Nagai instructed the two young men.
Kasaki and Mikono exchanged puzzled glances, struggling to discern Nagai's form amid the thick fog enveloping them. They stood in a high-altitude region, likely several thousand feet above sea level, the cold air chilling their senses. Uncertain of Nagai's query, Kasaki ventured, "What do we see? Well, we see you, standing right in front of us."
"You imbeciles," Nagai retorted sharply, prompting a suppressed chuckle from Mikono at the insult. "Concentrate. What do you see?"
Just then, Kasaki detected movement amidst the grass, spotting what appeared to be a pair of furry ears. "A rabbit!" he exclaimed. "There's a rabbit behind you!"
"Good. Now, what else do you see? Your turn, Mikono," Nagai prompted.
Scanning the surroundings, Mikono spotted a distinct silhouette atop the mountain, featuring a beak and a pair of wings. "I see an eagle," he replied.
"Good. Now, please sit down and observe," Nagai directed, signaling for them to take a seat and watch.
Kasaki and Mikono settled onto the ground, with Kasaki releasing a relieved sigh after the long trek. Mikono sat quietly, his demeanor serene amid the mountain's serene ambiance.
From the mountaintop, the majestic eagle gracefully descended, its wings tucked close to its body to streamline its descent. With unwavering focus, it maintained its gaze fixed on a singular point below. As the grass rustled, a brown, plump rabbit emerged, darting frantically across the terrain. Its wide eyes betrayed its fear as it sprinted past Mikono and Kasaki.
"Observe the eagle," Nagai instructed, drawing their attention to the majestic bird. With unyielding determination, the eagle tracked the rabbit's every move, adjusting its flight path accordingly. Closing in, it extended its talons, poised for the inevitable capture. Though the rabbit made a valiant effort to outrun its predator, the eagle's grasp was unyielding, snatching it from the ground and soaring skyward until it vanished into the hazy horizon.
"This is what you must learn," Nagai explained. "The unwavering focus of the eagle. When you pursue something, you must do so with singular dedication. In magic, concentration is paramount. You cannot afford to be distracted. It begins with a strong belief in yourselves and your abilities. But you must also master the art of concentration. Without it, you cannot manifest your desires into reality, which is the essence of magic. Now, look at me."
Kasaki and Mikono's eyes sparkled with anticipation as Nagai began to speak. There was a sense of eager curiosity in the air; they knew something important was about to unfold.
Nagai closed his eyes, his breaths deep and deliberate. In a matter of moments, he vanished, replaced by a majestic black eagle. Gasps escaped both Mikono and Kasaki, their astonishment palpable.
"Did he just transform into an eagle?" Mikono's voice wavered with a mix of fear and amazement.
The eagle, Nagai in this new form, spread its wings, adjusting to its avian shape. With a powerful flap, it took to the skies above them, circling gracefully.
"Within the realm of magic, anything is possible. You just have to believe," Nagai's voice echoed from above.
"Wow, Nagai! You're incredible!" Kasaki exclaimed, awestruck by the wizard's display.
But Nagai's response was sharp. "Enough with the flattery! Transform into rabbits, both of you, now!"
Confusion clouded Kasaki and Mikono's expressions. They exchanged uncertain glances, unsure of how to proceed.
"Are you serious? Just like that? You're not going to teach us how?" Mikono's skepticism was evident as he stood up.
"I've already told you," Nagai snapped, his tone tinged with frustration. "Breathe, and believe."
Kasaki hesitated for a moment, then steeled himself with determination. "This is bizarre, but I have to give it a try," he thought, pushing past his uncertainty.
Meanwhile, Mikono remained stubborn, his eyes shut tight and arms crossed in defiance.
Kasaki lowered his gaze and began to take deep breaths. "Maybe this is just a matter of imagination," he thought. "Perhaps if I vividly picture every detail of what I want to become and desire it with all my heart, it might actually happen." He forced himself to concentrate, to truly believe that he was capable of transforming into a rabbit. Clad in his blue kimono, he couldn't shake the thought of the color blue from his mind. Briefly recalling how effortlessly Nagai had turned into a majestic eagle, Kasaki started to believe that he could do the same. Remembering an old saying his father used to tell him – "If someone else can do it, I can do it" – his mindset shifted. Not only did he begin to believe in his ability to manifest his desires, but he also started to feel the transformation taking place within him.
Suddenly, his body began to change, and before he knew it, he had transformed into a large, blue rabbit. Shocked yet exhilarated by his success, Kasaki glanced at Nagai before swiftly hiding in the grass. Although he retained his thoughts and consciousness, he now inhabited the body of a different species. Initially feeling awkward and briefly overcome by fear – pondering the possibility of being unable to reverse the transformation – Kasaki quickly reminded himself of the power of concentration. With determination, he knew he could return to his human form.
Meanwhile, Nagai unfurled his wings and soared high into the sky, scanning the grass for Kasaki's new form. Watching Kasaki's success, Mikono felt a mix of frustration and envy. If Kasaki could do it, then surely he could too. Determined, Mikono closed his eyes and focused intently, attempting to take on the form of a rabbit as well. As Kasaki marveled at his newfound heightened senses, the world around him seemed sharper and more vivid than ever before. He could discern almost every sound, from the faint footsteps of ants to the swooshing of Nagai's wings as he soared through the air. "I'm not sure what the purpose of this exercise is," Kasaki pondered, "but I refuse to be caught." Sensing Nagai descending towards him, likely having spotted his conspicuous electric blue form amidst the grass, Kasaki sprinted with all his might. His heart raced with adrenaline as he darted in different directions, determined not to be captured.
As he ran, there came a moment when Nagai's speed surpassed his own, and Kasaki felt the sharp claws brushing against his blue fur. Yet, Nagai couldn't lift him off the ground, for a towering tree loomed directly ahead, posing a collision risk. Reluctantly, Nagai released him, allowing Kasaki to scamper away once more. Despite his frantic search, Kasaki couldn't spot any escape routes.
In the midst of his flight, Kasaki caught sight of Mikono. With great effort, Mikono clenched his fists tightly, gasping for breath until he, too, transformed into a large black rabbit. "That's it, Mikono! I knew you could do it!" Kasaki cheered inwardly. However, Nagai shifted his focus from Kasaki to the newly transformed Mikono, who seemed to struggle with his newfound form, moving somewhat clumsily.
In just a few moments, Nagai swiftly closed in on Mikono, sinking his claws into the black fur of his back. Despite Mikono's desperate attempts to resist, Nagai effortlessly hoisted him into the air. However, before they ascended even ten feet, Mikono reverted to his human form, plummeting from Nagai's grasp. Kasaki watched the scene unfold, feeling a sense of relief as Nagai also resumed his human form.
"Wow! That was incredible, Nagai!" exclaimed Kasaki, his voice brimming with excitement. "I couldn't even begin to explain how it happened. I simply focused and believed I could, and it happened."
"That's the essence of magic," Nagai responded with a nod. "You must truly believe it's possible, and then concentrate every fiber of your being to manifest it."
Mikono's expression darkened with disappointment.
"Why did you catch me but not Kasaki?" he inquired.
Nagai's smile remained gentle yet knowing.
"Kasaki adapted more quickly than you did. Your movements were somewhat awkward, perhaps due to your surprise at successfully transforming into a rabbit. While you managed the transformation through sheer competitive spirit, you lacked complete conviction in its possibility. Consequently, even when you assumed the form of a rabbit, you felt uncomfortable because you weren't entirely convinced it would occur. Nevertheless, I commend your determination, Mikono. You compelled yourself to transform and believed in it to the minimum extent necessary, a testament to your resilience as a warrior. Kasaki, on the other hand, possesses a more adaptable mindset. He approached the challenge with readiness and openness. That's why he managed to evade my grasp—he anticipated the transformation and thus felt at ease when it occurred."
"Will the others undergo the same test to earn their right to magic training?" Kasaki inquired.
"Not necessarily. Mikamoto or Sisuke—whichever the master assigns—may opt for a different approach. But let's not dwell on turning into giant rabbits; that won't help us win the war. You need to learn some lethal techniques," Nagai replied.
"Absolutely, sir. I'm eager to absorb everything you have to offer. I'll learn and practice until I've mastered it all," Kasaki affirmed.
"Good attitude, Kasaki," Nagai acknowledged with a nod.
Turning his attention to Mikono, who remained silent, gazing at the mountain, Nagai asked, "And what about you, Mikono? Are you ready to continue learning?"
"I was born ready. I'm just waiting for you two to stop babbling so we can get on with the training," Mikono retorted dryly.
Nagai smiled. "These two are perhaps the best students the samurai army has seen in years."