Zodiac: Is that the Sudoshi step?
Rito: Yes, the Sudoshi step is an advanced technique that enables you to vanish more swiftly than before. Essentially, just as you are about to take a step, you instantly appear right in front of the person.
Zodiac: So, that's what you did to Daru in that room.
Rito: Exactly. However, I will need to test your readiness to learn it.
Zodiac: Huh?
Rito looks around and spots a large boulder in the distance.
Rito: (Pointing) Do you see that boulder over there?
Zodiac: (Looking) Yes, I do.
Rito: I want you to use Sudoshi and vanish to it.
Zodiac: Are you serious? That's way too far.
Rito: Just try it.
Zodiac: (Annoyed) Tch.
Zodiac closes his eyes and concentrates, trying to vanish to the boulder. As Rito observes, he notices Zodiac's focus wavering, which prompts Zodiac to open his eyes again.
Zodiac: I can't do it. That boulder is too far for me to reach.
Rito: (Drinking his beer) Ahhhh. Well, it's simple. You lack energy.
Zodiac: What do you mean I lack energy? I thought Sudoshi had a range limit?
Rito: It doesn't. You simply do not have enough energy to vanish to it. Moreover, your mind tends to become unstable the farther away a person or object is.
Zodiac: So how do I fix this problem, then, smart guy?
Rito: (Laughing) There is a special meditation that can help increase your energy levels over time. Allow me to demonstrate.
Rito sits on the ground, crosses his legs, and places his hands on his knees. He closes his eyes and takes a deep breath, causing Zodiac to perceive energy emanating from him.
Zodiac: What the hell?
After a few moments, Rito opens his eyes, allowing his energy to dissipate, and stands up.
Rito: And that's how it's done. Now it's your turn.
Zodiac follows suit, sitting on the ground, crossing his legs, and placing his hands on his knees. He closes his eyes.
Rito: Now focus your energy within and maintain a clear mind.
As Zodiac attempts to follow Rito's instructions, he begins to feel unstable, his head twitching.
Rito: Focus! Clear your mind.
Zodiac takes a deep breath, concentrating as Rito notices energy radiating from him.
Rito: There you go.
Zodiac opens his eyes and stands up, concluding his meditation.
Rito: How was it?
Zodiac: It felt strange. I could sense energy flowing into me.
Rito: Good. That's how it should be. Continue meditating until you accumulate enough energy to utilize Sudoshi Step, but you can do that on your own time.
Zodiac: Wait, why?
Rito: Did you forget? You need to train your physical body, idiot.
Zodiac: Oh, right...
Rito: I don't care what you think; you'll just have to deal with it.
Zodiac remains silent, clearly annoyed.
Rito: Give me a moment.
Rito whistles sharply, and a monk instantly appears before him and Zodiac.
Monk: (Bowing) Yes, Master Rito!
Rito: Stop calling me that. (Sighs)
Rito takes another sip of his beer.
Rito: Ahh... Anyway, I want you to give this boy some physical training. Don't hold back.
Monk: As you wish! Follow me!
Zodiac follows the monk while Rito observes others sparring.
Rito: (Calling out) Himitsu!
Himitsu: (Surprised) H-huh!?
Rito: You're next! Get over here, you dumbass.
Himitsu stops training with Ohma and approaches Rito.
Himitsu: Hey, Rito!
Rito finishes his beer and discards the can.
Rito: Let's not waste any time. Now, explain what type of fighter you are.
Himitsu: I fight with a spear.
Rito: I know that. When you attacked me, it was sloppy. How long have you been using a spear?
Himitsu: Uhhhh, about a month?
Rito: Hmmm. Have you used any other weapon?
Himitsu: I used to use a sword. I was pretty good with it as a kid.
Rito: So why don't you use that?
Himitsu: I thought a spear would be cooler, so I switched.
Rito: Let me get this straight: you'd rather use something unfamiliar than a weapon you know?
Himitsu: I-I guess so?
Rito: (Confused) Wow, you really are a dumbass… Okay, whatever. What else can you do?
Himitsu: That's pretty much it.
Rito: Really? No special techniques or powers?
Himitsu: No. I'm just a regular guy with my spear.
Himitsu turns his head to the side, prompting Rito's attention.
Rito: What's wrong?
Himitsu: It's nothing. Don't worry.
Rito: Hey, I may be lazy, but I'm not stupid. So tell me what's bothering you.
Himitsu: (Sighs) It's just that I have no powers. Ever since I was a kid, I dreamed of having some ability—like throwing fireballs or calling forth lightning. But I was never born with any of that. When I see others with powers, even my friends, I get jealous. I just wish I had powers so people would find me cooler…
Rito begins to shake his head.
Rito: Are you really that dense?
Himitsu: Huh?
Rito: Having powers does not define you. What truly matters is who you are as a person. So what if you weren't born with any abilities? What counts is your determination and your connections with the people you value. Possessing power is meaningless if you cannot respect yourself.
Himitsu: But if I had powers, I could help more people.
Rito: Himitsu, you're missing the point. If you cannot respect yourself now, what leads you to believe you would do so if you had powers?
Himitsu: I would respect myself if I had powers!
Rito: Are you really this stupid? Himitsu… What if your power isn't enough to save the people you love?
Himitsu falls silent, taken aback.
Rito: That's what I'm trying to tell you. In the end, it comes down to your determination, your love for others, and your mindset. That will always be stronger than any power.
Himitsu begins to feel somewhat uplifted.
Himitsu: Well, thank you for that, Rito. But how can I get stronger without any of that?
Rito contemplates for a moment.
Rito: You say you know how to use a sword, right?
Himitsu: Uhhh, yeah, I do. Why?
Rito: I think I can help you with that.
Rito places his hand on Himitsu's shoulder and uses Sudoshi, teleporting them into Rito's room.
Himitsu: (shocked) What the!? What are we doing here? (makes a face) And what is that smell?
Rito: Oh, shoot, my bad. Just sit tight; I've got something for you.
Himitsu surveys the room, noticing bottles, food, and clothing strewn about.
Himitsu: Eww…
Rito begins rummaging through the clutter, searching for something. After a moment, he discovers a case containing a distinctive sword. He opens it and presents the sword to Himitsu.
Himitsu: What is that?
Rito: This is a special sword I used when I was younger. It's called "Amitoi."
Himitsu: Amitoi?
Rito: Yes, Amitoi is a blood sword that can draw blood from individuals with a slash, storing it to unleash a powerful attack.
Himitsu: Whoa! That sounds cool! Why don't you use it?
Rito: Honestly, I prefer using my fists over weapons. But don't get me wrong; this is a strong weapon made from special material. I'm giving it to you because it suits you better.
Rito hands the sword to Himitsu, who inspects it.
Himitsu: And it looks awesome!
Rito: (laughing) Of course it's awesome! But it's dangerous too, so be careful with it.
Himitsu: I will, don't worry. But I have a question.
Rito: Hmm?
Himitsu: How was Daru as a kid?
Rito: How was Daru as a kid?
Himitsu: Yeah. I grew up with Zodiac, and he hasn't really changed. So I was wondering if Daru was any different.
Rito: Oh, I see. Well, before Daru became who he is now, he was a nice, innocent kid who was always happy. But that all changed when he got bullied by some kids at school.
Himitsu: I recall Daru mentioning that.
Rito: Yeah. Daru went through a lot, but that's why I trained him. If anyone tries to mess with him again, they'll have something coming.
Himitsu: (laughing) Well, I would think so.
Rito: Besides that, we should head back. I need to choose someone next.
Himitsu: Wait, what kind of training am I doing?
Rito: You can test out the new weapon I provided you on the others and learn to become comfortable with it.
Himitsu: Oh, very well then.
Rito places his hand on Himitsu's shoulder once more and teleports them back to the battleground where everyone is gathered. As Himitsu practices with his new sword, Rito observes Akira sparring with Daru.
Rito: Akira!
Akira looks over at Rito.
Rito: You're next; come over here.
Akira approaches Rito.
Akira: What kind of training am I doing with you?
Rito: Well, if you let me explain, I'll tell you.
Akira: Yeah, whatever.
As they stand there for a few moments, Haruka approaches and stands beside Rito. He retrieves a bottle of beer from his back pocket, cracks it open, and takes a sip.
Rito: Ahhhh!
Akira: How many of those have you had already?
Rito: Umm… I think this is my 17th. Yeah, it's my 17th. Wait, I had some earlier this morning. You know what, never mind. Anyway, Haruka will be helping you with your training.
Akira and Haruka exchange serious glances.
Rito: Something tells me you two don't like each other.
Akira: I don't like people in general.
Haruka: I don't like you either.
Rito: Oh boy! This is going to be fun! Alright, let's get right into it. Akira, come stand beside me and face Haruka.
Akira walks over and positions herself to face Haruka, who mirrors his stance.
Akira: Now what?
Rito looks at Haruka and nods. She throws a punch at Akira's stomach, causing her to kneel on the ground.
Akira: Ugh! What the HELL!
Akira rises and steps closer to Haruka until their faces are nearly touching.
Akira: You want to try that again?
Haruka: (Smirking) I'm only here to help you train.
Akira: Then let's see how you handle this!
Akira lunges for a punch, but Rito intercepts her fist before it can reach Haruka.
Rito: (Nods his head) Ah… ah… ahh.
Akira: Wh- What are you doing?!
Rito: You cannot hit her.
Akira: What do you mean I can't hit her? She hit me!
Rito: Yes, I am aware. I instructed her to do so.
Akira: (Growing frustrated) SO WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO DO, JUST STAND HERE AND GET HIT?!
Rito takes another sip of his beer.
Rito: Ahhh! (Chuckles) Yes, exactly that!
Akira: WHY!!!! THIS ISN'T TRAINING!!
Rito: Not yet, it isn't. Okay, Haruka, come on.
Haruka nods and looks at Akira.
Haruka: (Smirking) Let me show you what I can do.
Haruka throws a punch at Akira, who successfully blocks it. Immediately afterwards, Haruka headbutts Akira, knocking her to the ground. Haruka begins to stomp, attempting to kick Akira. Akira catches her foot, throwing her off balance as she falls. While on the ground, Haruka kicks Akira in the chest. Akira slides away a few feet, recovering from the impact. She sees Haruka jump toward her, aiming a punch at her face. Akira narrowly dodges, Haruka's fist just missing her.
Rito: Man, this is a great fight!
Haruka takes full mount on top of Akira, throwing punches as Akira dodges.
Akira: GET OFF!!
Haruka: Are you struggling!?
Akira's anger surges, her fiery aura enveloping both herself and Haruka.
Haruka: Ahh! THAT'S HOT!
Haruka leaps off as they both stand. Akira's aura intensifies, causing everyone on the battleground to halt and feel the heat emanating from her.
Ohma: It's getting really hot.
Daru: Yeah, that's Akira.
Kono: That has to be Akira!
Zodiac: Great, now I'm sweating.
Zodiac removes his shirt, revealing a well-defined physique. The girls atop the castle gaze at him with admiration.
Girl 1: Oh my goodness! He's so toned and soooo hot!
Girl 2: He's so big and strong!
Girl 3: (Chuckles) You guys are silly!
Girl 4: (Chuckles) Yeah, really silly!
Girl 1: What are you talking about?
Girl 4: You should be looking at Daru.
Girl 3: Yeah, he's the big one.
They turn their attention to Daru, who is shirtless and perspiring while training with Ohma.
Girl 3: I bet his blood is so thick! I can taste it!
Girl 2: Zodiac's blood probably tastes spicy mixed with sweat!
The two girls glance at Zodiac while the other two focus on Daru.
Rito: Holy shit! You really are a fiery asshole! (Laughs)
Haruka: Is this even allowed?! You said no hitting!
Rito: But did she hit you?
Haruka remains silent.
Akira: Are you scared or something?
Haruka removes her cloak and tosses it aside.
Haruka: Do you want training?
She extends her hands, and two daggers slide down her sleeves into her grasp.
Haruka: I'll give you training!
Akira and Haruka charge at one another. Akira slides under one of Haruka's strikes, expertly dodging her attacks. As Haruka prepares for another maneuver, Akira seizes her arm and swings her to the side. Haruka lands on her feet and delivers a kick to Akira's face, both locking eyes once more.
Rito: Remember, no hitting. I'll leave you to it then.
Rito walks back to the others and calls Kono over.
Rito: Kono, let's go; I don't have all day.
Kono runs over to Rito, gun in hand.
Kono: Hey Rito! I'm ready for whatever comes next!
Rito: Are you sure you're ready?
Kono: Yes, I'm ready! So what do I have going for me?
Rito: Well, you can get rid of this.
He grabs her gun and tosses it aside.
Kono: Aww… crap, are you going to hit me?
Rito: What? No… he is.
He steps aside, revealing Monk Hanzo behind him.
Kono: Hanzo? You're going to hit me?
Monk Hanzo: Only if you let it happen.
Rito: Alright, I'll leave it to you, Hanzo.
Rito walked away.
Kono: I don't get it.
Hanzo: Miss Kono, if you lose your gun while fighting, you become ineffective, correct?
Kono: Uhh… yeah, I guess I am.
Hanzo: Well, it's time to change that! I will show you Tai Chi!
Hanzo began instructing Kono in Tai Chi as Rito approached Ohma and Daru.
Rito: (Taking a sip) Alright, you two. Ohma, come here.
Ohma: Yes, sir!
Rito: Just Rito, not sir.
Ohma: Uh, yes—Rito!
Rito: Okay, so you use nunchucks?
Ohma: Yes—Rito!
Rito: So where are you from?
Ohma: Me?
Rito: (Confused) What— Yes, you, you idiot.
Ohma: Oh, I see! I'm from the Knights of Judgment!
Rito: Oh… really? The Knights of Judgment…
Ohma: Do you know about us?
Rito: Yeah, I know about you guys. You're just selfish assholes who only care about yourselves!
Ohma: No, Rito, you're wrong! We're not like that!
Rito: No… you're not like that, but it seems you've been misled your whole life.
Ohma: Rito, I promise you, the Knights are not like that at all! Maybe back in your time they were, but they're not now! They help anyone in need, and I follow in my idol's footsteps!
Rito studied Ohma for a few moments.
Rito: Very well… I believe you.
Ohma: You do!?!
Rito: Yeah, I listened to your blood, and it didn't react at all. So you're telling the truth.
Ohma: Yes, Rito, I only tell the truth!
Rito: Indeed… I understand. However, what kind of knight wields nunchucks?
Ohma: Even back home, I was told the same thing—that it was weird and that I wouldn't be a proper knight.
Rito: Well, they're right.
Ohma: What?
Rito: Yeah, they're right… but only if you let it be true.
Ohma: So you want me to change that?
Rito: (Under his breath) Oh my god, he's dumber than a bag of hammers.
Rito sighed and shook his head.
Rito: Okay, listen, kid… You're not ready to use the weapons you have. From our fight earlier, you're very sloppy. Whoever gave you those weapons was wrong because you're not ready for them.
Ohma: But my mom gave me those before she passed away in battle.
Rito: That's unfortunate.
Ohma lowered his head.
Rito: But… I'll help you prepare for them.
Rito gathers his weapons and extends his hands as a monk approaches to take them from him.
Ohma: But I need those!
Rito: Don't worry, you'll get them back, but only once you've earned them.
Ohma: (in a serious tone) Understood, Rito!
Rito: Hmm… Okay, let's begin.