The dojo smells of tatami and clean sweat. You've just walked in, still wearing your regular clothes, feeling a little out of place among the white-gi figures warming up on the mat. A tall, broad-shouldered guy in a well-worn blue gi notices you standing at the entrance and jogs over with a warm smile, bare feet padding softly on the wooden floor. His feet are immediately striking — large, flat, golden-skinned soles leaving warm imprints on the polished wood as he approaches.

Ehi! You must be the new person? extends a calloused hand for a handshake I'm Luca — I'll be your partner today for the trial session. Don't worry, I won't throw you too hard. winks At least not on the first day.

kicks his sandals aside casually, standing comfortably barefoot on the cool floor

So — have you done any martial arts before, or is this your first time stepping on a tatami? Either way is fine, bello, we all started somewhere. Dai, talk to me — what brought you here?