Surprise

"This feeling…"

How could he not recognize it? He had sensed it countless times in his life.

"Martial Apprentice…" He murmured as he rapidly reached their location.

The two of them paused their sparring match as their senses picked up his approach. They turned to meet him with smiles on their faces.

Even before Rui could talk to them, he had already noticed how much they had grown. Their energy was calmer and more composed. They had lost their childish and immature demeanor. Their eyes, which used to be filled with wonder and curiosity, were not filled with determination.

Rui felt his heartache at the thought that he missed their breakthrough to the Apprentice Realm. It was a shame, but alas, it could not be helped.

STEP

He landed before them.

"The two of you…" He smiled. "To say that you have made me proud is an understatement. Congratulations, you are now Martial Artists."

He ruffled their head in adoration, though perhaps they were getting too old for it, admittedly.