( *1 =first hunt )
Two months passed by. Through rigorous training, those four had been completely transformed. Their movements were now marked by speed and a newfound confidence.
One evening, Nobaya called everyone together.
He held a piece of paper in his hand...
(The Hunt)
"After all your hard work, a mission has arrived for you."
Nobaya tucked the map he was holding behind his back. Then, he took a small slip of paper and handed it to Jinso.
On it, their Master had written about a major issue, as follows:
{"Warriors, prepare yourselves. Your first mission has arrived.
The presence of Zeks has been detected in the Nethavane Forest, located at the southern edge of the mountain.
Reports suggest these Zeks are powerful and exceptionally cruel.
They are killing many and attempting to build an army. Eliminate them."}
As soon as he finished reading, they looked at one another.
"I am ready for this, Nobaya," Sai said, tightening his grip on his sword.
"It won't be as easy as you think, Sai. Things are not always what they seem."
Nobaya handed them a map and a small box.
"This will be of help to you."
Jinso opened the box; inside were four stones.
"These...?" he asked, looking at Nobaya.
"Trap the souls of the Zeks you slay within these, and bring them back."
"Hmm... interesting," Sai muttered to himself, eyeing the stones.
"Remember, that forest is extremely dangerous. Beyond the Zeks, other perils lie hidden there. Be careful. You must stand united."
They bid farewell to Nobaya and set out to complete their very first mission.
After walking a short distance from the dojo, Sai started his usual chatter.
"I won't let him off easy this time," he said, swinging his sword through the air with a flourish.
"Sai... watch it!" Jinso said, quickly dodging the blade. "Cool your excitement, or someone will be finished before we even get there."
"Haha..." Sai laughed, continuing to play with his sword.
However, Izuma was walking with them in total silence. He didn't utter a word to anyone.
"Izuma..." Haru called out softly.
"Is something wrong?" Haru asked, feeling suspicious of his behavior.
But Izuma didn't respond; he simply kept walking forward. Haru stood there for a moment, watching him curiously.
"Haru, he's just like that..."
Jinso came closer and tried to comfort him.
"This is different from how he usually is, Jinso," Haru said suspiciously.