Tave clenched his jaw, grinding his teeth as he tightened his grip with his left hand. He just needed one touch. Just one contact with his left hand to apply the Soulfire.
The more vital the spot, the more devastating the effect. And his target was clear: Theo's right hand. The sword hand.
The flame was small, unrefined. A reflection of Tave's still-developing affinity. But it was enough. More than enough to turn the tide.
"You'll never lay a hand on me, Tave." Theo's voice snapped sharp. And then he moved.
Fast. Blindingly fast.
In an instant, he was in front of Tave.
Damn it!
Tave barely had time to swing his blade. Block!
The force of Theo's strike sent a jolt through his arms, his exhausted core screaming with every movement.
"Arghhh…!"
He held on, barely. Pushing his body through the pain.
Their blades locked. Metal grinding against metal. Sparks flew. And in that fleeting moment. Tave struck.
His left hand shot forward.
Theo's eyes widened. Caught mid-motion.
