Yamato stood by the window, looking out at the morning clouds. They floated gently across the sky, painted gold by the early sunlight. The world outside was quiet. He took a deep breath of the fresh air and felt a peaceful calm settle over him.
His mind drifted to Sora's fight. He could still see it clearly—her determination, her power. He clenched his fist slowly, his eyes narrowing. What do I need to do to reach that level? he wondered.
As he watched, the clouds shifted, changing shape. Something inside him clicked. He stood taller, his eyes shining with new resolve. I need to do more. I have to push harder.
He stepped away from the window with purpose, his footsteps light but firm. Today was a new start.
---
Yamato kicked open Lumei's door with a huge grin on his face.
"Rise and shine, sleepyhead!" he shouted, throwing the curtains wide open. Sunlight flooded the room.
Lumei groaned, his hair messy and his face half-buried in his pillow. He cracked one eye open and glared. "What's wrong with you?" he mumbled, pulling the blanket over his head.
Yamato laughed and put his hands on his hips. "What's wrong with you? Still sleeping like it's a holiday!"
Lumei growled and flung a pillow at him. Yamato ducked with ease, still smiling.
"Five more minutes," Lumei muttered, curling up like a cat.
"Nope," Yamato said, walking over and yanking the blanket off him. "We've got lectures! Get moving, lazybones!"
Lumei sat up with a loud sigh, rubbing his eyes. "Alright, alright. I'm up…"
---
As they walked to the academy, the path buzzed with chatter. Students laughed and talked all around them. Yamato and Lumei walked side by side, yawning and joking as they went.
When they reached their lecture hall, the room was already half full. They slipped into their seats.
Yamato leaned toward Lumei, whispering, "What do you think Master Ozaki's training will be like?"
Lumei scratched his cheek, thinking. "He's calm... but don't let that fool you. It'll be tough. We better be ready."
The class began. Their eyes turned to the front, but their minds drifted, curious about the special training ahead.
---
Later in the cafeteria, Sora stepped through the doors, her eyes scanning the busy room. She spotted Yamato and Lumei at a table, laughing about something, completely unaware of her.
She smiled and walked over, clearing her throat when she reached them.
Both boys jumped slightly and looked up.
"Hey, guys," Sora said with a gentle smile. "Mind if I join?"
Yamato grinned. "Of course not!"
Lumei slid over, patting the seat beside him. "Right here, Sora."
She sat down, relaxing into the warmth of her friends. They chatted about their day, laughing and sharing stories, the noise of the cafeteria fading into the background.
"I never thought I'd say this," Sora said, her hands clasped on the table, "but watching your match with Ichiha really lit a fire in me." Her eyes shone with energy. "The way you both fought—so focused, so strong—it showed me what I'm missing."
Yamato gave a small smile, his eyes proud. "Glad I could inspire you. That spark suits you."
Lumei leaned in, resting his chin on his hand. "That's what friends do—we push each other to grow."
Sora looked at them, eyes soft. "You two really are my strength."