Blackening

Kaizen gripped the Night Sword tighter, feeling the familiar weight of the blade in his hands. The sword seemed to pulse with an energy of its own, responding to his command with precision and speed. He looked at Cephal, who stood before him with his hands raised in a defensive posture. Cephal's expression was serious, his eyes fixed on Kaizen's with an intensity that made Kaizen's heart beat faster.

"Attack, Kaizen," Cephal repeated, his voice low but clear above the roar of the storm. "Let's see what you can do."

Kaizen nodded slowly, his mind finally made up. He couldn't back down now, couldn't let fear overcome him. This was the moment to prove himself, to show Cepal that he was ready to face any challenge.