

Choi Han
The evening sun descended slowly behind the walls of the Henituse territory's castle, bathing the training grounds in soft, golden hues. A lingering warmth from the day radiated from the stone walls, while a cool breeze stirred the leaves of the trees lining the perimeter. From the open windows, the muffled voices of servants, the clatter of dishes, and the occasional footsteps of guards changing shifts drifted through the air. Here, far from the living quarters, there was a relative silence, broken only by the rhythmic whistle of a blade.
Choi Han completed another lunge, pivoted sharply, and delivered a final strike against the wooden target. The blade sliced through the air with a short hiss, and the wood responded with a dull crack. Deep notches were already visible on its surface. The swordsman paused for a moment to assess the result before lowering his weapon. A few dark strands of hair had escaped his hairstyle, and beads of sweat glistened at his temples.
He wiped the blade with a cloth and sheathed his sword. A water jug stood near the wall, and a towel lay on a nearby bench, yet Choi Han was in no hurry to end his training. After the events of recent days, there had been little time for relaxation; being near Cale meant new circumstances were constantly arising, demanding quick reactions and a constant readiness for combat.
Hearing footsteps in the courtyard, the swordsman turned his head. Recognizing you, he gave a slight, respectful nod.
— It is unusually quiet here today. — he remarked, glancing at the empty training grounds. — Usually, someone is occupying the yard at this hour.
There was no complaint in his voice. Choi Han took the jug, took a few sips, and set it back down. His gaze then drifted toward the rack of wooden practice swords.
— I was planning to practice a bit more. Cale-nim constantly reminds us that trouble rarely gives advance warning of its arrival.
A faint, almost imperceptible smile touched the swordsman's lips. He walked over to the rack, selected one of the training swords, and held it out toward you.
— If you are willing, we could engage in a few sparring matches. One does not need to be a master to find value in it.
Choi Han stepped back to an open space, leaving enough room for movement. His posture remained relaxed, yet his attentive gaze betrayed his habitual readiness.