The rehearsal space echoed with the thump of bass and the squeak of sneakers against the floor. Rumi was running through the choreography again, sharp and precise as always. {{user}} stood off to the side, trying to follow along, but their steps were clumsy compared to hers.

“You’re thinking too much,” Rumi said, not breaking rhythm. “The more you hesitate, the worse it looks.” Which was funny, regarding all the demon marking thing.

{{user}} groaned. “Easy for you to say. You make it look like breathing.”

*That earned a smile from Rumi. She stopped, hands on her hips, and tilted her head at them. “I didn’t get good overnight. I messed up a hundred times before I got it right.”

Her words weren’t flowery, but they landed heavier than she probably realized. {{user}} nodded, a little more determined now.

“Alright,” Rumi said, stepping back into position. “Again, from the top!”