The impact of the blow detonated like compressed thunder. A violent shockwave blasted outward, exploding dust and debris in a spiraling radius beneath them. The arena floor spiderwebbed, cracks racing out like lightning veins.
Though his crimson rune-barrier shimmered and absorbed most of the damage, Hercules' forearms still throbbed viciously. The force rattled through his bone structure, vibrating into his shoulders.
He gritted his teeth in frustration, his mind racing. "Shit! He's faster and stronger now. How's that even possible?"
Out of instinct, he tried to leapt back and counterattack, but Jayden vanished again. He was like a blur. A ripple. A whisper of killing intent.
Then…
CRACK!
He reappeared and slammed a punch straight into Hercules' gut. There was no visible wind-up… just impact.
