Something inside Andres changed.
Not power.
Not transformation.
Understanding.
He wasn't stronger than the creature.
He wasn't faster.
But he could interrupt patterns.
And if he could interrupt—
He could survive.
He adjusted his stance.
Lowered his center of gravity.
Watched more carefully.
The creature attacked again.
And this time—
He didn't just react.
He predicted.
Step.
Dodge.
Counter movement.
Not perfect.
But improving.
His breathing became heavier.
But his focus sharpened.
And for the first time—
The creature hesitated.
Not fear.
But recalculation.