The underground training hall was thick with the heavy scent of sweat and raw exertion.
Alex stood at the edge of the training arena, arms crossed over his broad chest, a small, satisfied smile playing on his lips as he stared at the two figures sprawled face-down on the cold floor.
Danny and Mike.
Both young men lay completely spent, their bodies drenched in sweat, chests heaving desperately for air. Minor bruises and red marks covered their skin, clear evidence of the brutal session they had just endured.
Their fingers twitched slightly against the floor, but neither had the strength left to push themselves up.
Behind Alex, Viktor stood with his arms folded, a calm and approving look on his face.
A few steps behind him, Damien, Dimitri, Andre, and Pavel watched silently, their expressions carrying a mix of respect and faint amusement. They knew exactly how punishing today's training had been... especially for two newcomers.
