The late afternoon sun streamed through the window of the dorm's common area, casting warm golden hues on the furniture. Laura was sitting cross-legged on the floor, her arms resting on her knees, while Fie sat opposite her with a length of sturdy rope in her hands. The contrast between their expressions was amusing—Laura's face bore an expression of focused determination, while Fie's held her usual casual smirk.

"So," Laura said, tilting her head slightly, "I've been thinking about how versatile your skills are. The way you can escape from ropes or restraints so effortlessly—it's remarkable. I'd like to learn."

Fie raised an eyebrow, the corners of her lips twitching upward. "You? Wanting to learn Jaeger escape techniques?"

Laura nodded, her sapphire eyes gleaming with sincerity. "I do. It's a practical skill, and I feel it's something I should understand. It could be invaluable in the future."

Fie let out a small laugh. "Alright, Laura. I'll take it easy on you—for now. But don't say I didn't warn you when your arms are sore later." She tossed the rope lightly between her hands, as if weighing it.

Laura straightened her posture. "I'll endure it. You know I don't back down from a challenge."

Fie's grin widened. "Fair enough. Let's start with something basic."

She gestured for Laura to offer her hands, and Laura extended them willingly. Fie began wrapping the rope around Laura's wrists, her movements precise yet gentle. As she worked, she explained her technique.

"The key to tying someone up effectively," Fie said, looping the rope in a figure-eight pattern, "is making sure the knots are snug but not cutting off circulation. Too loose, and it's easy to slip out. Too tight, and it's dangerous."

Laura watched intently, feeling the rope tighten around her wrists. "You make it look so simple."

"It is—if you know what you're doing." Fie finished tying the knot and leaned back, examining her handiwork. "Okay, now try to get out of that. The trick is to wiggle just enough to create some slack. Use your fingers and wrists to your advantage."

Laura tested the bonds, her movements slow and deliberate. She tugged gently at first, then began twisting her wrists, trying to mimic what she had seen Fie do in the past.

Fie tilted her head, watching with an amused glint in her eyes. "Not bad for a first try. But you're overthinking it. Don't fight against the rope—feel for where it's weakest."

Laura paused, closing her eyes briefly to focus. She shifted her wrists again, this time angling them differently. The rope loosened slightly, and she felt a spark of triumph.

"There you go!" Fie said, her tone encouraging. "Now use that slack to get your fingers under the knot."

After a few more moments of maneuvering, Laura managed to slip her wrists free. She held up the loosened rope, a satisfied smile on her face. "I did it."

"Not bad," Fie said, leaning back on her hands. "You've got potential. But that was the easiest tie I could do. Let's see how you handle something a little tougher."

Laura chuckled. "I wouldn't expect anything less from you."

Fie began tying Laura's wrists again, this time adding more loops and a more complex knot. As she worked, she explained additional pointers. "If you ever get tied up for real, don't panic. Stay calm, assess the situation, and look for something sharp or sturdy nearby. Improvising is half the battle."

Laura nodded, absorbing the advice like a diligent student. When Fie finished, the ropes felt significantly tighter, and the knot seemed much more secure.

"Alright," Fie said, sitting back again. "Give it a shot."

This time, Laura struggled more. The ropes didn't give as easily, and she had to work harder to find the slack. Sweat beaded on her forehead as she twisted and flexed her wrists, trying to recall Fie's instructions.

Fie leaned forward slightly, her voice calm but teasing. "Don't tell me you're giving up already."

"Hardly," Laura said, her tone resolute. She redoubled her efforts, and after several more attempts, she finally managed to loosen the ropes enough to slip free.

Fie clapped her hands lightly. "Nice job. You're a fast learner."

Laura exhaled, setting the rope aside. "That was far more challenging than I expected. It gives me even more respect for your skill."

Fie shrugged, a small smile tugging at her lips. "What can I say? It's second nature to me. But you're not bad, Laura. With a little more practice, you'll be ready for anything."

Laura smiled, brushing her hair back from her face. "Thank you, Fie. I'd like to keep practicing with you, if you're willing."

"Of course, I'm down to play tie up anytime" Fie said with a wink, standing and offering a hand to help Laura up.