Dark Layer

As the third week of training began, Kaizen awoke before dawn, determined to face another day of intense training. 

His mornings were always spent studying on the Special Program campus, but his arts and evenings were spent on the training field, whether it was raining, sunny, or even the characteristic early morning fog.

Kaizen went to the abandoned arena, and Cephal, with his ever-watchful eye, was already there, performing his own morning exercises. He moved with the grace and precision of a skilled warrior, each move flowing perfectly into the next.

"Hello, Kaizen," Cephal greeted, his calm voice cutting through the silence. "Are you ready for another day of training?"

Kaizen nodded, determined. "I'm ready."

Cephal gave a slight smile, something rare in his usually stern expression. "Very well. Let's begin with the usual physical exercises. We need to strengthen your body and mind before we focus on the blackening technique."