bowser stands

Cloud got there first with a dead sprint. Small rocks kicked at his heels as he showed what kind of strength it took to swing that big hunk of iron around. As he reached Bowser’s stiff form, he drew it from his back and swung.

He moved quicker than the lightning he just channeled. Three swings in half a second. The first carved a scratch across Bowser’s stomach, but it didn’t cut through more than fat. The second drew blood, if only where the two cuts overlapped. And the third launched Bowser off his stunned feet and sent him flying into the arena wall. His shelled back slammed against rock, and when he fell to his chin, he left indentations of his spikes behind.

“I don’t believe it, folks!” Bill yelled. “After a staggering start to that round, which drew the attention of all of our combatants, Cloud Strife managed to sneak the twen-”

“Like hell he did!” Bowser roared. He punched the ground with one fist, a heavy impact reverberated throughout the arena, Samus was even sure she felt her seat jump. All eyes were on Bowser as he pushed himself to all fours, then onto his feet. He wiped at the blood on his chest, smeared it some.

- Chapter 60