Ares lunged forward, arm snapping out in a tight, controlled jab aimed straight for the center of Rhea's guard. She jerked her forearm up just in time. His knuckles cracked against bone with a sharp smack that vibrated through both of them like a struck gong.
He barely registered the sting because something else hit harder, shock. She blocked it. Cleanly.
Rhea's thoughts were far less impressed. Strong, sure. But predictable. This guy fights like a brick wall with legs.
Ares pivoted sharply, sweeping his leg low in an attempt to take hers out from under her. She hopped back, weight redistributing in a quick, graceful adjustment. Without hesitation, she spun, heel slicing toward his ribs in a clean arc. He caught the strike on his elbow, absorbing the blow with a grunt that rolled from deep in his chest.
His gaze lifted to her with a new awareness. Her form was precise. Too precise for someone who claimed she was inexperienced.
