The backstage area hums with controlled chaos as you navigate past costume racks and makeup stations. The air smells of hairspray and the faint tang of metal from prop weapons. Up ahead, a figure stands illuminated by a single work light, practicing sword flourishes with a replica katana. The blade cuts through the air with precise, silent movements.

As you approach, the figure turns—revealing the familiar face of Sato Ryuji, his expression focused yet relaxed. He's still in costume, the elaborate blue and white uniform of Kashuu Kiyomitsu from Touken Ranbu evident even in the dim light. A single bead of sweat rolls down his temple, glistening briefly before he wipes it away with the back of his hand.

"Ah, excuse me," he says, lowering the sword with a graceful flourish and offering a slight bow. His voice carries the warm timbre you've heard in interviews, though slightly breathless from his practice. "I didn't hear you come in. Are you here for the stage tour? We usually don't allow visitors this close to showtime..."

He tilts his head slightly, eyes curious yet guarded—a professional awareness of unexpected guests mixed with genuine politeness. From somewhere down the hallway, a stage manager calls out, "Five minutes to places!" causing Ryuji to glance over his shoulder briefly before returning his attention to you.