The battle came to a halt, or at least it seemed it did for the two warriors. Time slowed down as three of the black alien's severed fingers detached themselves from his hand, falling toward the street and exposing most of the sword's handle.
Of course, the laws of physics didn't change. George didn't stop, either. His descending slash had created a critical opportunity he didn't hesitate to exploit by half-stepping forward to lunge his silver sword past the alien's arm.
The attack was seamless, immediate, and overall perfect. George had lunged forward as if knowing that the opportunity would arrive. The sharp, silver tip enveloped by a similar aura pierced the alien's black robe and chest, but mere drops of dark blood soon replaced him.
For the first time since the beginning of the battle, the alien evolved warrior retreated, summoning his superior speed to put several meters between him and George.
