Chapter 57 - A Rival's Plea

Lucas lunged at me, his movements fluid and precise. I sidestepped with minimal effort, watching his expression shift from confidence to confusion as his fist met empty air.

"Stand still and fight like a man!" he snarled, pivoting to face me again.

I remained silent, analyzing his technique. Despite his boasting, his movements revealed standard Inner Strength training—nothing special. When he charged again, I caught his wrist mid-punch, applying just enough pressure to make him wince.

"Is this what passes for expertise in your circles?" I asked quietly.

His face contorted with rage as he tried to break free. I released him suddenly, causing him to stumble backward. The room had fallen silent, all eyes fixed on our confrontation.

"Lucas, what are you doing? Finish him!" Nora screeched from the sidelines, her voice shrill with impatience.