The moment both of them stepped forward at the same time, the space gave way.
Not in collapse.
Not in destruction.
But in submission.
The undefined environment that had resisted structure, that had refused to stabilize under any influence, now bent slightly under the pressure of two presences that no longer sought to belong within it—but to define it.
Adrian felt it clearly.
For the first time since crossing into this domain, the space didn't feel distant. It didn't feel uncertain. It didn't feel like something he needed to adapt to.
It felt—
Responsive.
Not fully.
Not completely.
But enough.
The figure moved.
And this time—
There was no hesitation.
No testing.
No delay.
The attack came instantly, sharper than before, faster than before, carrying a level of precision that left no room for error.
Adrian didn't step back.
He stepped in.
