Noah moved into footwork drills, his high agility and swordsmanship skill making normal, foundational stances feel like simple art.
Each step landed precisely, each pivot carried perfect balance, each advance or retreat demonstrated his understanding of the stance.
The entire dojo had stopped their individual training to watch.
Conversations died down as the students realised they were witnessing something beyond normal.
"It's like watching a master demonstrate," breathed a young woman near the weapons rack.
Master Tanaka approached as Noah completed his drills, his expression carrying respect typically reserved for fellow masters rather than enthusiastic beginners.
"Your foundation," he said quietly.
"It has become something extraordinary. I'm not sure what training you've been doing
But the results speak for themselves."
"Dedicated practice," Noah replied, keeping his explanation deliberately simple.
