The Dortmund training facility felt different when Mateo returned from his extended winter break. The familiar yellow and black colors seemed more vibrant, the pristine pitches more welcoming, and the state-of-the-art equipment more purposeful.
Perhaps it was the contrast with the gritty authenticity of Gimnasio Ferro, or maybe it was simply the satisfaction of returning to a place where he belonged after experiencing the world beyond its boundaries.
The System's disguise had faded during his flight from Barcelona, his features gradually returning to their natural state as the temporary modifications expired.
By the time he walked through the academy doors, he was once again unmistakably Der Maestro, though he carried within him the memories of being simply Mateo for those precious few weeks.
