It was as if the Orc had simply vanished from sight, only for his presence to erupt behind Stephan like a breaking wave.
Stephan's eyes widened. He's fast. How can something that big move this quick?
Instinct took over. He pivoted, spectral blade already rising, knowing exactly what was coming next. The twin swords cut through the air with a shriek, the sound of steel slicing space itself. Stephan's blade met them inches from his face. The collision burst into a shower of yellow sparks, the impact ringing like a struck anvil. For a moment, the air between them seemed to warp under the pressure.
The Orc's strength rolled through Stephan's arms in a tangible wave, brutal, bone-deep force.....but he absorbed it, holding the line.
The Orc's grin split wider, teeth bared. "Impressive. You can keep up, human."
"You're not bad either, Orc," Stephan shot back, a grin curling across his face.
