บท 70: a lion’s hunger [coda fatalis] (2)

The punch rattled Damian's teeth and knocked him off his feet.

He slammed into the ground, his skull connecting with the marble floor. His vision turned black for the briefest moment, then he was conscious again, his head throbbing. He rolled sideways, ears ringing, and vomited blood.

"Damian! DAMIAN!!"

Astrid screeched at him from the sidelines, where she was being held back by Apostles and her own brother. Tears streaked down her cheeks, one hand outstretched but unable to reach him.

Astrid, I'm sorry… I have to do this. I have to fight for our freedom!

Damian staggered upright and turned to face his opponent.