The echo of impact rippled through the Breaker Clan's inner training hall—raw, focused, and unforgiving.
Zach exhaled through his nose, barely winded, standing over his opponent. The young combatant on the ground groaned, more from disappointment than pain. Around them, the rest of the sparring circle stayed silent, the energy thick with reverence.
No flair. No wasted motion. Just precision, presence, and overwhelming control.
Zach reached down and helped his opponent up with a firm grip, offering no words. His silence was never arrogant—it simply meant the lesson was over.
At the edge of the mat, an older clan instructor crossed his arms and called out to the younger observers. "You lot paying attention? That's the future of this clan standing there. Better start moving like it."
The other clan members nodded, some with admiration, some with poorly hidden jealousy. Breaker didn't care for titles unless they were earned.
Zach stood still as a new challenger stepped forward—a more experienced member, someone known for their unorthodox rhythm and feints.
He cracked his knuckles, giving Zach a once-over. "No domain this time? Or are you just saving that for someone who matters?"
Zach's eyes narrowed slightly. "Why waste effort?"
The moment the bell chimed, the match erupted.
The opponent came in fast—hands feinting high, foot sweeping low. Zach shifted one step back, deflecting the sweep with a shin check, then punished the overreach with a jab so clean it echoed.
He didn't chase. He waited. His footwork was tight, unshakable. The next exchange happened at close quarters—his opponent trying to grapple, trap the arms.
Zach let him.
Only to break the hold with pure strength, pivot, and slam his knee into the ribs.
There was no sound for a moment. Just the hum of essence vibrating around Zach's skin.
His domain wasn't even active, but it felt like the air bent toward him. Like reality was already prepping for his inevitable rise.
A whisper floated between spectators near the wall.
"Barring any challenges, it's pretty much official."
"Please. Who's going to challenge him? No one's done that in over a hundred years."
Someone else muttered, "If they did… they'd better pray he doesn't get rose involved."
The room stayed still, until the instructor clapped once and dismissed the group. Zach walked to the far end of the room, took a seat alone, and closed his eyes.
Training wasn't over.
The world was too unpredictable.
And there were still things inside his bloodline left unspoken