The wide sleeves of the black shihakushou gently fluttered in the air as the long arms swung back and front , the large hands still coarsely callused as ever . The footsteps were as always firm and steady , contrast to the almost hesitant - looking pace he walked up the stairs at . Nothing had changed yet at the same time , everything had changed .

Available options:
(a). The subject is preparing for a workout session ..
(b). The subject is preparing for conflict ..
(c). The subject is preparing for a sporting match ..
(d). None of the above choices ..
Answer the following question: Why is the subject of the narrator 's dialogue showing clear exertion and movement ?
(b).