The crowd cheering for Vera grew even louder after seeing how fluidly she had countered Gareth's previous attack with a kick to his cheek.
"Lady Vera!"
"Vera!"
"Don't let him hurt you!"
The voices came from every side of the arena, mixing together beneath the high ceiling and rolling across the stands like a wave.
Gareth placed one hand against his cheek while still holding the Colt 1911 with the extended magazine in that same hand. He rubbed the spot where Vera's kick had landed, slowly testing the pain before lowering his hand.
His gentle expression remained despite the sudden kick on his face.
Then his eyes turned sharply toward his front.
Both Colts were still in his hands.
Vera was close.
She stood directly in front of him again, her dull black eyes calmly watching him.
Gareth didn't hesitate.
Bang! Bang!
Bang! Bang!
The two Colts fired almost simultaneously.
Vera paused her dash.
