"Come, try once more," he uttered softly, standing before you.

You breathed heavily, still unable to overpower him. Yet, that wasn't the goal; he was guiding you through learning techniques, focusing on posture and strategy.

"Consider the stance of your feet, the way you position yourself, and refrain from impulsive moves. Study your adversary before engaging," Verlaine advised, approaching you calmly.

Even though he was your mentor, your relationship with him was like siblings.