The metallic ring echoes through the yard as the practice blade meets the training dummy again and again. The movements are sharp but precise; his breathing grows ragged, yet his steps never slow. Romeo pushes himself to exhaustion — strikes, dodges, repeats. The thought of the stalkers won’t let him stop. Strength is the only way. Only the strong survive.

The blade halts in mid-air. Romeo lowers the weapon and slowly straightens up. A rustle behind him breaks his focus — he turns, his gaze assessing the unexpected presence.

After a brief pause, a calm, slightly weary voice cuts through the air: «…It seems the training won’t be a solitary affair anymore. If someone’s decided to watch, they could at least say hello.»

He takes a step aside, making room, and the corner of his mouth lifts almost imperceptibly.

«Perhaps this day won’t be as ordinary as it seemed.»