The office door remains half open after Ryoma steps out. From inside, the steady rhythm of jumping ropes fills the air, ropes snapping lightly against the mat in uneven harmony.
The gym is alive, loud, and grounded in routine, as if nothing significant has just shifted inside the small office.
Nakahara rests both palms on the edge of his desk and looks at Kurogane across from him.
"As I mentioned," he says calmly, "we will need to prepare formal contract papers. I have to speak with our lawyer first to structure the agreement properly. It should be ready by tomorrow."
Kurogane bows his head slightly. "Of course. That is only proper."
For a moment, neither speaks. The sound of ropes striking the floor continues in the background, steady and relentless.
