The silence that followed Rowan's command did not last.
It couldn't.
Because something had already shifted beyond the point where words could contain it, and whatever fragile balance had existed between the three of us had now fractured in a way that could not be undone.
Kael moved first again.
This time, there was no testing, no restraint, no attempt to measure Rowan's response. His attack came with full intent, his movement cutting through the space between them with a speed that forced the air itself to react. Rowan met him instantly, but the difference was clear now. This was no longer a controlled exchange. This was escalation.
