The team had just finished dinner when Master Wu had requested Cole to meet him outside. The evening breeze was cool but calming in a way. Over head, the sky was a medley of ambers and golds as the sun began to set on the distant horizon.
"I don't get it Master," the black ninja said "I've seen the mural plenty of times." His eyes fell upon the different scenes that adorned the monastery wall, each painting a reminder of their greatest victories.
The old man nodded. "Yes, I know. So as you can see," he gestured to the wall "a part of it is missing. A very significant part, actually."
It only took Cole a couple of seconds to realize what he was referring to. "You mean, my battle with Master Yang, on the Day of the Departed?" Master Wu nodded once again.
Cole found himself gazing at the ground in thought. It still felt like only yesterday he faced Master Yang in the Temple of Airjitzu, fighting for his existence. Being a ghost had been hard enough but the thought of being forgotten by everyone he loved was even painful. But he was still here and very much alive.
"It's no big deal." The black ninja insisted "It only lasted one evening and hasn't had as much of an impact as any of our other victories."
"Cole," the old master began to speak "Your battle with Master Yang is a crucial part of Ninjago history, but more importantly a crucial part of your life. When you transformed into a ghost, you were overwhelmed by despair. But you didn't let it prevent you from being a true ninja. Instead, you adapted to your new situation and used your new form to your advantage. When you battled Master Yang on that fateful night, you were confronting one of your biggest fears. But you stayed strong and overcame the challenges. You have come a long way, Cole, and although your journey has been difficult, we are all extremely proud of you."
It took the black ninja a while to form the right words to say. "I guess you make a very good point but I still don't understand why you are showing me the mural."
Picking up a paintbrush, Master Wu smiled "You are a talented artist. I thought that you should paint the Day of the Departed scene. I remember my brother used to paint as a way to release his emotions. Perhaps it will do the same for you?"
With a nod, Cole took the brush.
"Thank you, Master Wu."