Thousands Of Strikes

[Adrian's POV]

His arms trembled as he stood on one side of the ring, already anticipating a world of pain and defeat. He didn't know what's keeping him from throwing the towel when he obviously didn't stand a chance against Russell. Perhaps it was pride. Or maybe he just didn't want to appear like a coward.

From the other side of the ring, Russell pace back and forth from one corner to another, his piercing stare never leaving him. The mocking smile he wore chipped at the little confidence he had. "Let's lay out some rules before we start. I play by the rules in a sparring. I don't pull dirty tricks unlike a certain someone I know."

Adrian was sure he heard a scoff at the last part. Was Russell referring to Johan?