At the first light of dawn, the samurai steps through the ancient torii gate, entering the forest with purpose and reverence. The wooden steps beneath his feet creak softly as he ascends, the golden morning light illuminating his path. For hours, he walks through the forest; an exercise in patience, focus, and strength, carrying him closer to the inner peace he seeks.
As the day turns to night, the samurai finds himself by a serene lake, the only sound the soft ripple of water. He moves to the center, sitting cross-legged on a small island, his sword lying beside him, a glowing lotus floating on the water. The sky unfolds above him, filled with the infinite beauty of the Milky Way. Here, he contemplates the balance between the world of Men and the eternal heavens, the forest a distant memory, and the stars his new teachers.