Getting my *** handed to me.. these damm brakes

It is possible for the master cylinder
I think it is.
Right. If the seals in the master cylinder are bad or not seated correctly the fluid can just be exchanged between the ports or chambers. Pressure can be lost as it starts to build if it goes past the seals, pedal stays soft even though no air comes out of the system. You can’t build pressure in the lines if the seals around the piston are leaking badly enough.
That is what I'm thinking. I have a manual Wilwood aluminum master cylinder that was targeted for a different build that has stalled a bit. I'm going to bench bleed and try on my B-body break issue. It's a superior component. But doesn't have the stock desired look. But it's something I can try fast. I will certainly post results and observations.