Filler chapter- Wrath of the war god

Ares lunged forward, his spear a streak of crimson destruction. Lucius barely had time to twist his body before the blade sliced through the air, missing his throat by inches. Even so, the aftershock alone tore through his armor, leaving a searing line of divine energy across his chest.

Lucius clicked his tongue. That spear is trouble.

Before he could counter, Ares was already in his face. A massive right hook crashed into Lucius' jaw, the sheer force sending shockwaves rippling outward. Lucius' head snapped to the side, but his feet remained planted.

The War God grinned. "Still standing?"

Lucius spit out black ichor and rolled his shoulders. "You're durable. I'll give you that."

Ares twisted Phobos in his grip. "You haven't seen anything yet."

He thrust the spear forward.

Lucius barely managed to sidestep, the blade grazing his ribs. But before he could capitalize on the dodge, Ares pivoted, bringing his knee into Lucius' gut.