Marcus looked at her.
"Then he should learn not to get hurt."
Leo forced himself upright.
The next exchange was short.
Marcus caught him, threw him, and Leo hit the mat with enough force to leave the room silent.
Marcus stood over him.
Leo did not immediately move.
For the first time, Elias stood.
His movement was quiet enough that almost nobody noticed.
Marcus raised his hand.
"One more lesson," he said.
Elias's voice crossed the room.
"That's enough."
Every student turned.
Chapter 4 — The Stranger on the Mat
Marcus slowly faced Elias.
"Who are you?"
"Someone who thinks the round is over."
"This isn't your class."
"No," Elias said. "But that boy is hurt."
Marcus laughed.
"You've been sitting there for twenty minutes. Don't pretend you understand what happens here."
Elias looked toward Leo.
"I understand enough."
Marcus stepped closer.
"You want to lecture me about martial arts?"
"No."
"Then leave."
Elias shook his head.
"I came here to observe. I didn't intend to interfere. But there is a difference between pressure and cruelty."
The room became completely still.
Marcus's pride took over.
"You think you're better than me?"
"I haven't said that."