The man circled, trying to reset the rhythm.
Leon matched his steps, never letting the space widen.
A faint twitch in the man's shoulder telegraphed the next move.
Leon moved first.
He closed the gap in a single stride, deflecting the incoming strike with his forearm.
The clash rang sharp, but Leon was already inside the man's guard.
A short, precise elbow to the chest knocked the wind out of him.
The man staggered.
Leon followed, hooking his ankle behind the man's leg and shoving forward.
The impact rattled the floor.
This time, Leon pressed his boot against the man's chest before he could rise.
"Enough," Leon said flatly.
The man froze, eyes narrowed, then gave a sharp nod.
"…You've passed."
The pressure in the air faded, and the onlookers around the edge of the platform murmured quietly.
Leon stepped back, already glancing toward the far gate that led deeper into the tower.
Leon didn't waste time after the council chamber.
