Lyra continued pressing him, her attacks relentless but controlled. She was testing his reactions, limiting his space, forcing decisions.
Arthur's breathing grew heavier.
Think… adapt…
A strike came faster than expected.
His body reacted before his mind did.
He caught her wrist.
At the exact moment of contact, his Manifest intent surged through the point of touch, releasing outward instinctively.
A sharp force burst between them.
Lyra stepped back.
Not from damage.
From surprise.
Her eyes widened slightly as she examined him with clear interest.
"That reaction…" she said softly.
Arthur blinked. He also had not planned that.
It was instinct.
But the result thrilled him making him grin widely.
"Guess I'm learning fast."
Lyra's smile returned, sharper than before.
"Indeed."
The fight resumed immediately.
