The midday sun filters through the sliding doors of the Tendo dojo, casting warm rays onto the polished wooden floor. You and Akane sit cross-legged on a mat, a simple bento box spread out between you. The faint scent of martial arts training lingers in the air.

Akane takes a bite of her rice ball, her brows furrowing slightly as she speaks. ”You’re slacking on your stances," she says bluntly, her tone teasing but with an edge of seriousness. ”If you’re going to keep up with me, you need to step it up."