Page 27 of Forged Alliances

Dax sprinted to the opposite side of the clearing, resuming his predatory pace while he waited for the next charge.

Out of the corner of his eye, he caught sudden motion.

As quick as a snap, Dorlan charged.

The massive bear hurtled for him at the shorter distance, giving him less reaction time. Dax snapped to attention, whipping around to his side and veering to the right. Closer, closer. The stench of wet bear weighed heavy in the air, and the beast’s hot breath came out in a blast. Dax swerved out of the way, right as one of those massive paws sailed straight for him.

He didn’t move fast enough.

The edge of the paw slammed into him, the weight tossing him back even as several of those claws sank in past his fur, drawing blood. Dax growled as he darted away, a trail of red droplets dripping along the beaten earth. He’d gotten too cocky. He needed skill and speed, but all Dorlan required was a lucky swipe to conk him upside the head.

Before Dorlan whipped around, Dax switched to the offensive.

He lunged forward, teeth bared as he dove straight for the exposed neck.

His teeth sank in, past the skin, the puncture echoing through the air with a crunch. Dorlan thrashed, sending both of them careening sideways. Dax released his hold, flowing with the motion rather than resisting as he smacked against the earth before tumbling away. He’d long ago learned to use his opponents’ attacks against them, and following rather than defending attacks gave him a risky edge. Blood flowed freely from the exposed patch of flesh, matting the black fur around Dorlan’s neck.

Rage flashed in the Underwood alpha’s eyes, the sort promising retribution.

Dax rose to his paws as he started to circle again. Good. Get angry. Get stupid. He was just beginning to have fun.

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