Juniper either didn’t notice his expression or ignored it. “I could do it, Z. It’s more important that we preserve you.”
She looked up at him, her ears tucked back in worry. She considered him for a moment before reaching up and kissing him. "You'd better win."
Her arms slipped around his neck and she broke the kiss gently, resting her forehead against his. “You have to,” she said softly, her nose brushing his. “I won’t be able to fall in love with you if you’re dead.”
She nodded, taking it and hugging it to her chest. "Do you want me to try to steal it while you're fighting?"
She laughed a little, nudging him gently. “No. I think you’ll definitely win. I just don’t want to take any risks.”
He laughed slightly, shaking his head. He shifted his weight, Oblivion waiting in its scabbard. "Alright. I'll try to be safe."
She seemed hesitant, holding her cloak tighter around herself before tucking her hair behind her ear. “You’re my type.”
He nodded, turning to the ring as the last match ended. He stepped up, drawing his sword with a frown. "I'd like to challenge the champion." The announcer raised his eyes with a small grin. "We have a new challenger! Bring in the Champion!" The huge orc entered the arena. He easily had a foot over Zerras, and his muscles rippled under his skin. Even his footsteps seemed to hold a rumble when he walked. Zerras looked up at him, seeming unwavered.
Zerras exhaled slowly as they opposed each other. Zerras had his sword drawn, the orc had a sort of battle axe. They circled the ring, eyeing each other. The orc made the first move, dashing forward and giving a hefty swing of his axe. Zerras dodged swiftly, moving his sword under the orcs feet. He caught one, causing him to stumble briefly before getting up and facing him again. The orc swung again and Zerras lifted his sword and sliced across his fingers, causing him to drop his weapon. Zerras stepped forward to attack his chest, but his opponent caught his leg and he dropped onto his back, coughing slightly.
The orc brought his fists down heavily and Zerras moved out of the way just in time. He was like a blur, grasping the orcs upper arm and sliding across his back, bringing his whole body around. Now the roles have reversed. Zerras looked down on the orc.
