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Chapter 3 - First Steps

July 15th, 2018 — Milanello Training Ground

The sun streamed through the giant windows of Milanello's gym, casting long shadows over the polished floor. The scent of sweat, rubber, and determination hung heavy in the air.

Enzo Sky Vito was already stretching, his body reminding him that yesterday was only the beginning of something much bigger. His blond hair stuck to his forehead, damp with sweat from the previous day's grueling session.

"Enzo," came a sharp voice from across the room. Gattuso's piercing eyes found him immediately. But beneath that fierce gaze was something warmer, almost protective.

"Today, you start showing us what you're made of."

Enzo's heart skipped a beat. This wasn't just training anymore. It was a test. A challenge to prove he belonged among giants.

FITNESS TESTS

The drills were relentless.

Sprints, shuttle runs, explosive jumps — one after another.

His lungs burned; his legs ached.

But with every drop of sweat, every racing heartbeat, Enzo pushed harder.

Because this was the price of greatness.

By the end, the trainers exchanged approving looks.

"He's got the stamina," one whispered, nodding.

Enzo wiped his brow and glanced toward the pitch, where the senior squad was already running tactical drills.

TACTICAL SESSION

Inside a high-tech room, the first team gathered around glowing screens playing match footage.

Enzo sat beside Hakan Çalhanoğlu, whose keen eyes scanned the footage.

"See that left back?" Hakan whispered.

"Fast but reckless. He leaves gaps behind.

Time your runs right, and you'll slice through their defense."

Enzo soaked in every word, every pattern, every flicker of insight.

No longer just a player — now, a student of the beautiful game.

AFTERNOON TRAINING

Out on the pitch, the pressure was tangible.

Senior teammates watched every touch, every movement.

Bonucci barked orders from the back, his presence commanding.

When the ball found Enzo's feet, he kept his composure.

Eyes sharp, he feinted, leaving a defender grasping at thin air.

Then, with perfect timing, he slid a precise pass to Cutrone.

A few voices stirred with approval.

Maybe this kid wasn't just hype.

Maybe he was the real deal.

EVENING — REFLECTION

Later that night, alone in his small Milan apartment, Enzo stared out the window at the city's glittering lights.

He pulled from his pocket an old family photo — a sunny day in Varese.

His mother's radiant smile. His father's proud gaze. Luca's mischievous grin.

He traced the edges softly.

"This is only the start," he whispered.

Tomorrow would bring harder tests.

Tomorrow, the real journey would begin.

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