A Strike Misplaced

Lucien's movements were a fraction slower now, his strikes losing the edge they had boasted just moments before. 

Ethan watched carefully, his breathing measured as he bided his time, waiting for Lucien's stamina to waver just enough.

Then it happened—a slight lag in Lucien's footwork as he reset his stance, his energy flickering with the strain of his overextended technique.

Ethan seized the opening.

He shifted forward, closing the distance in a heartbeat, his body coiling as he prepared to strike. 

Without hesitation, Ethan threw his weight behind a powerful, grounded punch—a move from his Muay Thai mastery and the raw strength he had gained since getting the Unlimited System. 

His fist struck Lucien's chest, reverberating through his opponent's frame.

The force of the blow sent Lucien stumbling backward, his expression twisting in shock and pain as he struggled to regain his balance.