Since Erabareshimono's demise, life in the dojo had changed. Students like Josei and Raiba seemed distracted during training. Only Sensei appeared unaffected, though he harbored a secret he hesitated to share.
Josei sat on her bed, tears streaming down her face. With Erabareshimono gone, she felt utterly alone. Raiba occasionally joined them, but his loyalty lay with Tokira. Erabareshimono had been her closest ally, and his absence left a void in her heart.
Unbeknownst to her, she realized she had deeper feelings for him.
Meanwhile, Tokira and Raiba sparred outside, while Hito trained in the dojo. Josei remained in the students' quarters, lost in her grief. Sensei pondered his decision in his room.
Deciding it was time to share his burden, Sensei made his way to their room.
Upon entering, Josei hastily wiped her tears, trying to hide her sorrow.
"I'm not crying," she said, trying to compose herself. "How are you, Sensei?"
"Where are the others?" Sensei asked.
"They're probably elsewhere," Josei replied.
Sensei sighed. "There's something I need to tell you all, especially you. Please, don't be angry..."