The training dynamic between Joe and Stephen had undergone a massive, fundamental shift since the early days of the Billion Bloodline group's rise. In the beginning, they were the twin pillars of the organization's training program, regular fixtures at the main gym who would spar for hours and then turn around to lead combat classes for the new recruits. These students, who ranged from young street kids looking for a purpose to older bouncers looking for an edge, were all part of the Bloodline group's growing infrastructure.
The partnership had been mutually beneficial in a dozen ways. They encouraged each other, analyzed each other's footwork, and shared the burden of management. However, a slight but undeniable change had occurred the moment the two of them had received their Vows.
