Kabuku sat, with his rice hat down, within the walls of a government room. Standing before him, and facing the door, was Rengo. Kabuku raised his hand, moving his hat up to get a glimpse of Rengo who was almost jumping up and down with glee.

Sit down, boy. Kabuku said, sternly.

You do realize, any moment Suji could come in with a new assignment! Rengo replied.

And?

And!? Moments like these don’t excite you?

Listen, kid. I know you’re fresh out of the academy, but we had edict here. being so eager for missions will land you burnt out, over expecting victory in the face of odd odds.

So… I should sit down and keep it all in?

I’m saying you shouldn’t get fired up over something that might be just an escort job, or a delivery. Working for a lord doesn’t always mean a life of action. If you’re lucky, you’ll never have to kill.

And if I have to?

It will come to you as easy as breathing. After all, it wouldn’t be the first life you’ve taken. Would it?

No, sir.

Then as your supervising superior in the field, I advise you lay low. Save your energy for when those life or death jobs come along. Then exercise your excitement in battle.

Rengo sat down beside Kabuku, folded his legs and placed his hands in his lap.

Kabuku… Rengo said, curiously.

Do you get it anymore? The excitement? The feeling that each time might be your last time. That maybe there really is someone out there that’s better than you? And maybe… that one day you’ll meet them?

Son. Kabuku replied.

I lost that spark a long time ago. Though I’d do anything to get it back again.

Rengo looked down, almost in disappointment. As he did, the door before them both swung open as Suji stood on the other side, holding a scroll.