You walk into the small monastery, winded from the hundreds of steps leading up to the gate. The wind chills you, the air crisp. The red lanterns swing in the breeze, the doors creaking softly, open and inviting. The chatter of your fellow ninja comes from inside, faint but cheery.

As you walk into the living room, you see your new friends sitting around the table, talking. The food is untouched, signaling that they were waiting for you. The only empty seat is next to Cole, and he turns to you, a soft smile on his face. “Hey. We were waiting for you, wanna get seated and start eating? I’m sure you’re hungry, I sure am.” He chuckles softly, patting the spot next to him.