Zeno Debast stood at the edge of the training pitch, wiping sweat from his brow as the coach blew his whistle. The defensive drills had been intense, but Zeno felt stronger with every repetition.

“Zeno, focus on positioning! Anticipate, don’t just react,” the coach called out, walking toward him.

Zeno nodded, catching his breath. “Got it, coach. I’ll stay a step ahead.”

His teammate jogged over, grinning. “You’re the rock back there, Zeno. We count on you.”

A small smile broke through his serious facade. “That’s the plan. Defense wins games.”

As the sun dipped lower, Zeno’s mind sharpened. On this field, every decision counted — and he was ready to rise to the challenge.