บท 118: Training (1)

My eyes snapped open at 2:30 AM, well before my alarm was set to go off. The room was pitch black, with only faint moonlight filtering through the window.

I'd made sure to get to bed early, aiming for at least six hours of sleep before Professor Vale's training.

I got up and went to the washroom.

The cold water splashing against my face helped chase away the last remnants of sleep. As I dried off, my eyes caught sight of the dual kusarigama resting against the wall. After yesterday's practice session, my muscles still carried a dull ache, but I couldn't afford to leave them behind.

The academy grounds were eerily quiet at this hour.

My footsteps echoed softly as I made my way to the training area, the twin sickles secured at my sides.

Their weight had already become familiar, almost comforting.