After returning to the dojo, Eichi had nothing else to do. He didn't feel like doing much, so he simply sat on the walkway in front of the training hall, watching Azuma and the others train.
In fact, everyone noticed the moment Eichi returned. After all, he was the type of person who usually only showed up when it was time to eat. They were quite curious as to why he had returned so early today, occasionally stealing glances at him during their session.
Eichi noticed their little movements but only smiled without saying anything. He sat there, and even though the strength of their Pokémon wasn't particularly high, he didn't find it boring. Conversely, he watched with great interest.
On the field, the expressions of Azuma and Jin changed slightly. Among all the disciples, only the two of them knew that Muramasa had been taking Eichi to complete his final training lately. Returning this early could only mean one thing: Eichi had passed.
Since the final training was finished, it meant Eichi was leaving. At the thought of this, both of them felt quite reluctant to see him go.
This continued until the afternoon. Later that day, Teacher Muramasa informed everyone that Eichi would be leaving tomorrow. He dismissed all the disciples early to prepare a lavish farewell dinner.
Jin drove his off-road vehicle, taking several junior disciples to a nearby town to purchase ingredients. Eichi went to help as well; seeing everyone so busy, he felt awkward staying by himself on the sidelines.
Evening, Dining Hall.
Everyone sat around a massive circular table, similar to a traditional banquet table. It was covered with various delicacies that looked incredibly appetizing, accompanied by some light wine. While drinking was usually forbidden, Teacher Muramasa made an exception today and allowed them to have some.
Since Eichi was too young, he could only substitute the wine with juice. Everyone ate and drank their fill. Knowing that the disciples might feel restrained if he stayed, Teacher Muramasa quickly finished his meal and said to Eichi, "Come to the tea table in a moment."
Eichi nodded, and Muramasa departed. As soon as he left, the atmosphere instantly became lively. Everyone crowded around to toast Eichi, even urging him to drink some wine. This time, he did not refuse. Although he was young, his physical constitution was strong, and this level of alcohol wouldn't make him drunk.
They chatted while eating. As time passed and the drinks flowed, many thoughts held deep in their hearts were voiced. Most talked about their dreams and what they wanted to do in the future.
The scene was filled with laughter and joy. Although Eichi hadn't trained with them during the day over the past month, Azuma would drag him out to play games every night. They had all developed a genuine bond. Despite the circumstances, no one showed a sad face. They were all grinning; after all, who says a farewell has to be tragic?
Once everyone had had enough to drink, Azuma, Jin, and a few others helped Eichi clear the table and carry the drunk disciples back to their rooms.
After everything was settled, Eichi went alone to the tea table. This was the same spot where Teacher Muramasa had spoken with him before. Before arriving, Eichi used his Bug Force to completely remove the scent of alcohol from his body. If Teacher Muramasa still smelled anything, Eichi could simply say it was from carrying the others back to their rooms.
Teacher Muramasa looked like he had been sitting there for a long time. A pot of tea was currently brewing on the table. As soon as Eichi sat down, he apologized, "I'm sorry for making you wait, Teacher."
"It's no matter, I only just arrived myself," Muramasa replied. "You've come at the right time; the tea is just ready."
He then picked up the teapot and poured a cup for Eichi. The fragrance of the tea wafted out with the pour. Eichi took a deep breath of the aroma, then picked up the cup with both hands and took a sip. It was slightly bitter, but not unpleasant.
The dojo was cool at night, and a gentle breeze blew, making it very comfortable. Muramasa took out a letter from under the table and handed it to Eichi. "Give this letter to Yanagikawa when you return."
Eichi accepted the envelope with both hands. He really wanted to ask why Teacher Muramasa didn't just call him instead of sending a letter, but he figured the teacher was likely a traditional man who preferred expressing emotions through writing.
Muramasa took a sip of tea and continued, "To be honest, it's not like other people haven't come here to study before. They were like you, only staying for a month or two. Their training content was identical to yours, except for the final task."
"A few of them were geniuses, but compared to you, they were far behind. Over the years, I have traveled far and wide and seen many talented trainers. Many of them now hold important positions in the League. You, however, are not far behind them at all. It is truly rare."
"In Yanagikawa's letter to me, he mentioned you came from an ordinary family. I didn't believe it when I first read it, but I know he wouldn't lie. He said you haven't used any of your family's money and earned everything yourself?"
"I indeed haven't used my family's money," Eichi replied. "I've earned it all myself, even my tuition fees."
"Then you are truly impressive," Muramasa sighed. "I haven't seen someone like you in a very long time."
"You flatter me, Teacher Muramasa. It's nothing worth mentioning," Eichi replied with a bashful smile.
Teacher Muramasa smiled and didn't pursue the topic further. He moved on to the next point: "Would you like Jin to give you a ride tomorrow?"
He poured another cup of tea for Eichi. After thanking him and taking another sip, Eichi said, "No need. I can go on my own. There's no need to trouble Senior Jin."
Teacher Muramasa nodded and added, "By the way, Masamune has some things to say to your Scizor."
"Masamune?"
As soon as the name was spoken, Masamune suddenly leapt out from nowhere. Eichi saw this and released Scizor from its Poké Ball. Upon coming out, Scizor saw Masamune.
Masamune spoke a few words to Scizor and then flew off, with Scizor following closely behind. Seeing the two Scizor vanish, Muramasa commented, "Well, there it is. Masamune likely views your Scizor as a disciple and wants to teach it a few final things. It probably won't be back tonight."
Eichi finished his tea and stood up. "I understand. Then, Teacher Muramasa, I will head back first."
"Go ahead," Muramasa said.
Eichi returned to his room and looked out at the moon through the window. It was exceptionally round and bright.