The First Strike

Scott and Marius laughed, their amusement ringing through the training hall as they continued teasing Jo. The playful glint in their eyes only fueled Jo's growing determination to retaliate, until a sharp voice cut through their banter like a whip.

"Scott. Marius. Josephine."

The trainer's tone was laced with authority, making all three of them to stiffened instantly, their amusement vanishing as they turned toward the trainer.

Jo groaned under his breath, crossing his arms with a pout. "I hate that name," he muttered.

Scott and Marius, still struggling to keep straight faces, exchanged a glance before snickering quietly. Jo shot them a glare, but before he could say anything, the trainer's voice sliced through again.

"This is a training hall, not a playground. If you're done giggling like schoolchildren, maybe we can actually get started."

A few recruits muttered under their breath, casting wary glances at the trio.