The two sat down on the grass at the training ground to rest.
Kawaki Aoba watched the other ninja training around the field, his eyes full of envy. "Asuma-sensei, look at them. They're all so strong. Some of them are practicing really powerful ninjutsu, and others are amazing at taijutsu too. When will I be able to be like them?"
"There's no need to envy them. They only gained their current strength through day after day of hard work."
Asuma smiled. "As long as you keep training, stay grounded, and work hard, it won't be long before you can be like them—or even stronger than them. By the way, what were your relationships with your classmates like when you were at the Academy?"
At the mention of companions, Kawaki Aoba's eyes dimmed, and his voice grew subdued. "I didn't get along very well with them. Because I was weak and had mediocre talent, they didn't want to train or play with me. They often mocked me too, calling me useless and saying I held them back. Over time, I became afraid to approach them. I was always alone."
Seeing how dejected he looked, Asuma's heart softened slightly. He gently patted Kawaki Aoba's shoulder. "Don't be sad. This isn't your fault. True companions won't mock or abandon you just because you're weak. Once you grow stronger, the people who used to laugh at you will naturally see you in a new light, and they'll be willing to be your companions too. Besides, I'll introduce you to some reliable companions in the future. They won't laugh at you. They'll train and improve alongside you."
Kawaki Aoba looked up, his eyes full of anticipation. "Really? Asuma-sensei, can I have reliable companions too? Can I train and play with them?"
"Of course you can."