Chapter 9: Secrets Unveiled
Team Unison became more and more determined to learn what their spirit animals' secrets were as the days went by. The academy's library drew to them because it had the esoteric information they were looking for on its shelves, yet it was a mysterious place.
Kaito couldn't hold back his curiosity any longer as they sat in the courtyard that night under the light of the lanterns. "Has anyone else ever questioned why the academy keeps our spirit animals' knowledge so well guarded? What might they have hidden?
Masumi and Hiroshi exchanged thoughtful looks. They had always been puzzled by the academy's reticence on the meaning and history of their spirit animals.
Finally saying, "It's true," Hiroshi kept his eyes on the far horizon. They haven't clearly explained what the spirits inside of us are to us. We only know that they are a part of us and direct our skills.
Masumi nodded as she lazily traced an arrow's feathers with her fingertips. "I've only heard rumors; nothing specific. Others think our souls are reflections of our inner self, while some claim they are the remains of extinct beings.
Kaito had a sly glint in his eyes. I've even heard a crazy claim that they have some connection to Sun Wukong, the fabled Monkey King.
Their theories were cut short as their guru Jiro showed up. His lion spirit was a silent sentinel standing at his side.
Jiro commented, "Interesting discussions you're having," his voice resonating with wisdom. The academy hides its secrets from even its brightest students for a reason.
Hiroshi respectfully nodded in recognition of their mentor. "Master Jiro, we get it. But the more we understand about our spirits, the more effectively we can use their strength.
Jiro gave a contemplative nod while his eyes wandered to the horizon. "Very good. The library of the academy has some ancient manuscripts that might have the answers you're looking for. However, access is restricted and they are well safeguarded.
Masumi tightened her hold on her bow, her resolve shining in her eyes. "Master Jiro, we will find a solution. We shall learn the truth as Team Unison.
It was unusual to see Jiro's lion spirit appear to smile. "Your biggest assets are your cohesion and tenacity. But keep in mind that some knowledge has two sides. Some things are kept a secret for a reason.
Jiro gave them those enigmatic instructions before leading them back to their practice area, leaving Team Unison to consider their next move.
They set off on a covert mission to find the academy's mysterious library the following night, assisted by Kaito's intimate knowledge. They moved invisibly as they waded through the maze-like tunnels beneath the academy.
Finally, they reached a room that was poorly lighted and surrounded with massive bookcases and antiquated manuscripts. The weight of centuries of knowledge and the aroma of parchment filled the air. They had reached their final stop.
They stealthily removed books from the shelf using Kaito's sorcerous air manipulation skills, uncovering a secret passageway behind a big bookcase. They arrived at an unlocked door after traveling along a little hallway.
They pushed open the door and entered a room filled with statues of ferocious, lion-headed beasts. The eyes of the sculptures shone with an unearthly brightness.
Masumi notch an arrow as Hiroshi tightened his grip on his katana's hilt, ready for whatever obstacle lied ahead. The words written on the doorframe were murmured by Kaito, ever the fast thinker.
As the saying goes, "Knowledge is the key to understanding."
The statues' eyes grew faint as he finished speaking, and the door slowly squeaked open. Team Unison looked at each other, their togetherness unbroken, and entered the underground library of the academy.
They searched for clues about their spirit animals among the old books and scrolls that covered the shelves. They had no idea that their pursuit of knowledge would bring about unforeseen challenges and disclosures.