14
THE EYE OF THE STORM
Irving and Hornsdoodle continued their training match after Smith was dispatched. Neither knew what Phelonius’ plan entailed. Irving was doing what Phelonius instructed him to do and trusted in the knowledge that Phelonius needed him intact.
After parrying a few more of Hornsdoodle’s strikes, Irving stepped in and struck Hornsdoodle’s nose with his free hand, breaking it.
“Foul!” Hornsdoodle screamed again as he backed away, covering his face with his free hand. Blood was spewing from his nose, and Irving saw Hornsdoodle’s eyes swelling.
“I would advise you to protect yourself,” Phelonius warned. “The human that you despised and regard as a weak fool has the opportunity to send you to your long-dead ancestors.”
“I protest the foul blows he has struck!” Hornsdo
