Dominic's ribs cracked. The union of the Demonic Art and the Metal Hand granted Liam enough power to overcome the branching expert's innate defenses, albeit only barely.
The main benefit of that successful blow wasn't in the injury it inflicted. Honestly, Liam was inclined to believe that Dominic's body and his life were two distinct elements at that point.
Yet, the hook did destabilize Dominic, even slightly lifting him from the ground, creating an opportunity Liam didn't hesitate to exploit.
Injuries might not kill, but what they forced Dominic's Qi to do could. Liam forsook any notion of inflicting additional delay blows. He didn't even care if he came out on top of those exchanges. He would consider it a win as long as his opponent used his energy.
Liam punched again, uncaring of what he would achieve without the Lightning Step's speed. He thrust his bleeding knuckles at the right side of Dominic's chest, hitting it heavily.
