For the next few days, I was taught various techniques that I didn't have time to learn before, such as guard, strike, and charge. Charge, which I was unfamiliar with, was the technique used to imbue a Novite item of any type. I find it funny the Kiichi gave me Novite boots to use but never taught me the charge technique.
Regardless, I can now use these boots against Mito in the spar tomorrow. But, of course, I have to be wary of him as well. He recently gained a powerful treasure that may even be stronger than mine.
The spar aside, Kina has also been learning midst techniques. She told me that midst manipulation is required for advanced medical procedures and that it will take a while for her to master it. Unfortunately, most basic midst techniques are better suited for combat than medical treatment, so she's being forced to step outside her comfort zone for this. However, as I see her train with Master Shiki, I realize that she may have a knack for combat despite her medical passion. I can foresee her making people into patients rather than treating them.
Later that evening, as I'm continuing to practice the charge technique, I hear a shriek from the sky. Obo's back!
As Obo descends into the dojo grounds, I'm a bit disappointed to see that it's only him on Strix's back. Does this mean Kiichi decided not to come back?
Obo dismounts from Strix's back, and I wipe the look of disappointment off my face. It seems that he saw my expression before I could get rid of it, so he decides to put my worries to rest.
"Kiichi has agreed to return! However, he needs a few weeks. I decided that we'd hold on to the position of Lord for up to a month. Unfortunately, that means that you won't be able to see him before you leave. Are you okay with that?"
I bite my lip so that I don't portray my disappointment.
"Yeah, that's fine. As long as you can promise me that Kiichi will live a happy life with his daughters, I'll be happy out there."
Obo throws up a mock salute.
"You have my word that I will not rest until it's done, sir!"
We both laugh, and training is concluded for the day. But, while all five of us sit around the dinner table, I can't help but feel conflicted about our upcoming journey. I'm excited to experience new places but sad that I won't observe my efforts here growing to fruition.