The private sparring yard behind the western merchant district was secluded behind high walls of weathered stone and climbing ivy.
A faint, shimmering dome of protective force hovered softly across the training square, established by Vella to absorb stray impacts and prevent accidental injuries.
Weapon racks stood along the inner walls, stocked with blunted ash-wood broadswords, rattan staves, and thick leather-padded bucklers.
Hajin stood near the edge of the sawdust ring, his right arm resting comfortably in its linen sling while his left hand held a cup of herbal tea.
Beside him, Loccy hopped lightly on the balls of her feet, testing the balance of two smooth practice clubs with eager, restless twirls of her wrists.
The demihuman girl wore a padded leather training vest laced tightly across her chest, her eyes sparkling with boundless energy under the midday sun.
