As Sakutarō and Kotoba continued their training, Hōkai decided to get an extra hand. Haruki, a grizzled veteran, was brought in by Hōkai to help speed up Sakutarō and Kotoba's progress.
Having been taken to Haruki's dojo, the sound of clashing wooden swords and heavy breathing echoed throughout. Sakutarō and Kotoba were locked in a fierce sparring match, each trying to outmaneuver the other. Haruki, circling the two of them, watched with a critical eye, noting their strengths and weaknesses.
"Again!" Haruki barked as Sakutarō landed a powerful blow on Kotoba's shoulder, sending him sprawling.
Sakutarō offered Kotoba a hand, helping him up.
"You need to tighten your guard," Sakutarō advised, his tone supportive despite the competitive edge in his eyes.
Kotoba nodded, panting.
"He knows." Haruki interrupted. "Right now you are a bit too fast for him."
"We are usually similar in speed." Sakutarō responded.
