[Override Stabilization: 91%]
[Warning: External Force Proximity — Critical]
Merlin didn't breathe.
Didn't blink.
Didn't step back.
Because both Dion and Flint were moving again, and if he flinched, they'd think they were right.
Flint went for his side.
Dion came in high.
Not coordinated but close enough.
He slid wind through his heel, pivoted under the swing, and let the second attack graze his shoulder on purpose. Just enough to bleed.
Just enough to sell it.
His back hit the wall. Again.
But this time?
He stayed there.
Mae shouted something, but he didn't catch it.
Flint's knife flickered in his hand. Reversed grip. Efficient. Probably meant to pin, not kill.
But it was going to kill if it landed wrong.
Merlin's fingers twitched.
One twitch was all it took.
The override jumped to 94%.
Then 97%.
The air pressure collapsed like a lung being punched in.
Flint froze mid-step.
So did Dion.
Mae backed up. Fast. Not scared just smart.
The floor pulsed once.
