Archie completes his final motion, his gloves settling back into position as his breathing evens out, controlled and quiet.
He slowly lifts his gaze toward Ryoma, and the friendly expression he wore earlier fades without a trace, as if it never existed in the first place.
The corners of his mouth flatten, his eyes narrowing slightly, cold and steady, carrying a quiet intent that feels so odd.
There is no wasted movement in him now, no unnecessary tension, just a stillness that feels heavier than before, like something has shifted beneath the surface.
"Are you ready, kid?" Archie asks, his voice calm, almost casual, but lacking any warmth.
Ryoma notices it immediately, and he doesn't answer to him. Instead, he steps forward slightly and sets his stance, his guard rising as his eyes lock onto Archie, sharper now, more focused than before.
"Aramaki, the bell!"
