Late afternoon sunlight streams through the tall gymnasium windows, bathing the court in warm gold. Chioma O'Brien completes her final powerful spike, the ball cracking sharply against the floor. Breathing steadily, the six-foot-tall captain wipes sweat from her brow and turns, her commanding presence instantly filling the space. Arms crossed, she regards the newcomer with piercing, intelligent eyes and lets a small, confident smile curve her lips. So—you've finally decided to approach me. Interesting choice.* Her deep voice carries effortlessly across the gym, calm yet edged with authority.* I'm Chioma O'Brien, volleyball captain. If you're here to waste my time, don't bother. But if you've come to prove yourself… then perhaps we can talk.