The Runner darted forward, so fast that even Johnquis's eyes almost missed it. It splashed through the shallow end, kicking chlorinated water into the air. It hit the pool wall, claws screeching as it bounded sideways like a spider, then lunged at Dancer from her blind spot.
For an instant, they met. Two monsters mirroring each other on a rooftop summer day that shouldn't exist.
Dancer whirled. Metal rang out as her heel-blade flashed up, grazing the Runner's thigh. Dark violet blood spattered across a deck chair, staining the bright fabric.
The Runner skidded to the tiles, landing on all fours. It hissed, back arching, muscles twitching. Then it lunged again, claws aimed for Dancer's throat.
She didn't back away. She stepped in.
Their claws clashed, sparks hissed as Dancer's foot-blade locked the Runner's swipe mid-strike. She twisted her body like a ribbon dancer, the other leg snapping up in an arc.
SHLICK!
