The next round came without delay.
The Beastkin stepped forward again, this time with less restraint.
Kael noticed the difference immediately.
This wasn't a test anymore.
It was a challenge.
"Again," the Beastkin said.
Kael nodded once.
The second exchange was faster.
More aggressive.
The first strike came from the right.
Kael caught it.
Held it.
But this time—
He didn't release it immediately.
The force stayed in his hand for a fraction longer than before.
Compressed.
Unstable.
The Beastkin's expression shifted slightly.
"…What are you—"
Kael moved.
He pushed.
The stored force snapped forward, driving the Beastkin back harder than expected.
The reaction in the room was immediate.
Subtle, but sharp.
Kael blinked, surprised.
"…Okay," he said quietly. "That's new."
The Beastkin recovered quickly, his focus sharpening.
"Again."
Kael nodded.
This time, he paid closer attention.
Not just to the attacks—
But to the space between them.
Each movement became more deliberate.
Each adjustment more controlled.
When the next strike came, Kael caught it again.
Held it.
Then redirected it cleanly.
The Beastkin's balance broke.
Kael stepped in and pushed the motion back into him.
The Beastkin hit the ground.
Silence followed.
The match was halted.
Kael stepped back, breathing steadily now despite the intensity.
"…I think I did better that time."
Lyra watched him closely.
This time, there was no hesitation in her voice.
"Yes," she said.
But there was something else there, too.
Recognition.