Jin stood in the quiet corridor outside the command center, his eyes closed as he mentally walked through the routes one last time. The Kageyoshi rested at his hip, its presence a comforting weight that grounded him. He had spent the past hour reviewing every twist and turn, every potential ambush point, every possible escape route with Asha.
"Route memorization is complete," Asha confirmed in his mind. "All 15 key passages successfully mapped to your muscle memory. Even if you are consciously distracted, your body will navigate correctly."
"Thanks, Asha," Jin thought back, opening his eyes. "I think I'm ready."
He had already completed his equipment check, ensuring his tactical uniform was properly secured and that all his gear was in place. The synthetic sharpening stone Clara had made for him was tucked safely in his pack, along with emergency rations and medical supplies.
