The forest was calm again. Sunlight shined through the trees, shining on the spot where the monster had vanished. Only bits of black mist floated away, fading into the air.
Takuma felt relieved and looked at the others. "That was close… but we did it."
Emi smiled, her brown hair moving in the breeze. "Barely. I used Phantom Step too many times. I feel like I'm gonna pass out."
Sota laughed and dropped down onto a fallen log. "Yeah well my arms feel like noodles."
Daichi looked around the forest, scanning the trees. "You all fought well. But Ren's monsters will only get harder from here." His calm eyes looked at Takuma. "If you want to protect people, you need to learn how to control your star power better."
Takuma looked down at his sword. The blade reflected the sunlight. "You mean there's more we can do with it?"
Daichi nodded. "Yes. Each Starborne's power has limits, but those limits grow when you understand the power inside you."
"The power we got isn't just random," Daichi said. "It has a feeling to it. A purpose. If you listen to it, you'll find new ways to fight."
The group followed Daichi as he led them deeper into the woods until they reached a small stream. The water sparkled in the light, and birds chirped softly nearby.
"Let's rest here," Daichi said. "You'll train after lunch."
They sat by the stream and ate the leftover rice balls from their pack. The air smelled fresh, and the sound of water made it peaceful for a while.
When they finished, Daichi stood and looked at Takuma. "You first."
Takuma blinked. "Me?"
"Yes," Daichi said. "You said your sword feels alive when you use it. Close your eyes and feel that connection."
Takuma closed his eyes and held the sword steady. The sound of the woods faded. In his mind, there was a low hum.
He opened his eyes slowly. "I can feel it… it's like it's waiting for something."
Daichi nodded. "That's the start. The sword responds to your will, but it has its own power. You must learn to move as one with it."
Emi tilted her head. "How do we do that?"
Daichi smiled a little. "I'll teach you. But it'll take time. For now, focus on balance and control. You'll need both when Ren sends more monsters."
The group trained through the afternoon. Takuma practiced swinging his sword while Daichi guided him to move with the wind. Emi tried controlling her speed bursts without tiring too fast, and Sota learned to aim the blue sparks from his rods with better focus.
As the sun began to set, they stopped. Takuma looked around, breathing hard but proud. "It's not easy," he said, "but I can feel myself improving."
Emi nodded, smiling. "Yeah. I think I'm getting better too."
Sota twirled his rods. "If we keep this up, Ren's monsters won't stand a chance!"
Daichi crossed his arms, smiling. "Good. You're learning fast. But remember—fighting isn't just about strength. It's about purpose. Never forget why you fight."
Takuma looked up at the darkening sky. "To protect people," he said quietly.
Daichi nodded. "Exactly."
The four sat down by the stream as night fell, the sound of water and wind surrounding them. The stars began to appear.
For now, the forest was peaceful. But in Takuma's heart, he knew this was only a calm moment before the next storm.