Once they enter North Forge Boxing Gym, warmth immediately replaces the freezing Toronto air outside, with the sounds of training echoing throughout the gym.
Then several fighters gradually stop what they are doing once they notice unfamiliar visitors entering the gym. One of those fighters turns out to be Liam O'Connel himself.
Liam lowers his gloves slightly while staring toward the entrance, clearly recognizing something familiar about the young man beneath all the winter clothing.
And before Liam can even fully process it, Ryoma casually pulls down the scarf covering his face before lifting one hand, waving with almost childish openness.
"Hi," he says lightly. "Nice to meet you."
Liam blinks once, frowning immediately afterward, a strange mixture of curiosity and visible displeasure crossing his face at the absurd casualness of the greeting.
