A quick exchange followed—blows blocked, dodged, and answered.
Rudra's [Burning Passion] let him absorb hard hits and press forward through sheer will, even as sweat dripped from his brow.
Orion, ever calculating, used lightened steps to dash behind, heavy parries to lock Rudra's arms, and soaring jumps to escape retaliation.
Selene leaned forward, whispering to Elizabeth, "Do you see how they're reacting? It's like neither of them have any intention of stopping before the other is dead."
Elizabeth didn't answer, but her eyes narrowed.
SHNK!
A shallow cut opened across Rudra's cheek.
Time slowed.
Rudra touched the blood with a thumb. "Huh."
"Surprised?" Orion asked, still panting.
"No," Rudra said, rolling his neck. "Just amused."
He hopped lightly on his feet as he smirked and quoted, "All that, for a single drop of blood"
Orion chuckled, eyes narrowing. "You talk too much for a guy who just got tagged."
