"My Lord," he said, lowering his head in respect. "I oversee this facility. I did not expect you to visit."
Gabriel walked past him, already examining the weights.
"These are the heaviest sets available?"
"Yes," the man replied. "They are designed for awakened bodies. Even among them, very few can use the upper ranges safely."
Gabriel stepped toward a loaded barbell.
The label on its side read 1,200 kg.
The manager quickly spoke. "My Lord, that one requires preparation."
Gabriel lifted it. There was no buildup. No visible effort. He simply raised the bar, held it steady for a moment, then lowered it back into place with a look of dissatisfaction on his face.
Perhaps it was too light for him.
The sound of metal settling echoed softly across the room.
The manager stopped talking.
Gabriel moved to the next station without pause. This one was configured even heavier. He tested the grip, then lifted again with the same controlled motion.
