The crowd went silent.
For the first time, Marcus, Derek, and Noah stood together.
And Eli stood opposite them.
Alone.
The match began.
Marcus moved first.
Derek followed.
Noah stayed behind them.
They were coordinated.
Years of training had taught them how to move as a unit.
Marcus attacked high.
Derek attacked low.
Noah controlled the center.
Eli retreated.
One step.
Two.
Three.
He wasn't trying to win.
He was studying them.
Raymond understood.
Eli was looking for the rhythm.
Every fighter had one.
Marcus breathed sharply before attacking.
Derek shifted his weight before countering.
Noah planted his right foot before changing direction.
Eli saw everything.
Marcus attacked.
Eli slipped past.
Derek came from the side.
Eli turned.
Noah advanced.
Eli stepped backward.
The three black belts moved faster.
The crowd shouted.
Eli's footwork became almost impossible to follow.
He never stayed where they expected.
Marcus finally landed a light strike to Eli's shoulder.
The crowd reacted.
Marcus smiled.
"Got you."
Eli looked at his shoulder.
Then at Marcus.
"Yes."
Marcus frowned.
"That's it?"
Eli nodded.
"Now I know."
"Know what?"
"Your timing."
Marcus charged.
Eli moved.
Derek followed.
Eli moved again.
Noah attacked.
Eli pivoted.
Suddenly, the three men collided.
Marcus stumbled into Derek.
Derek bumped Noah.
The crowd gasped.
Eli stood behind them.
Not breathing heavily.
Not smiling.
Just waiting.
Noah turned.
"How?"