Mage’s Embrace vs Sinister Tactics

This chapter is part of "The Small Town Magic Arc." Links for prior chapters in this storyline can be found here: https://www.theprose.com/post/746871/the-small-town-magic-arc

"Don't worry Rick, I've got you!"

True to her word, Rick disappeared from Cyclo's grasp, and returned to Essie's side.

"I'm sorry the strength increase didn't last long enough, are you ok?"

"Yeah, no need to apologize Essie." Rick grinned, despite being in great pain. "I knew we would have to learn the true potential of this power as we go. He busted the finger bones in my hand, but one of my blue grenades will fix that."

"No, please allow me." Essie said tenderly as her hand began glowing a bright white. She touched Rick's hand, and his fist was instantly restored.

"Thank you so much!" Rick gushed. "Are you up for using mage's embrace again?"

"Absolutely." Essie smiled sweetly, tenderly giving Rick another hug. Once she released him, Rick sped towards Cyclo, facing him once again.

"Ah, that girl holding you is what gave you that boost, huh?" Cyclo taunted. "So without the power of her magic, you my friend are useless!"

"You're wrong Cyclo." Rick replied boldly. "All of us bring something to the Pirate's crew, and by putting our talents together, we will defeat you!"

"Man, you are so lame!" Cyclo laughed. "Fine, hit me with your borrowed strength before it runs out again!"

Rick punched Cyclo in the chest, causing him to lean forward in pain. Rick then continued his assault with an uppercut to the chin, sending Cyclo into the air. Rick lept above Cyclo and struck his chest again with a dropsault, backflipping safely to the ground while Cyclo crashed onto his back. Rick summoned his sword into his hand, preparing to strike the finishing blow. Cyclo pointed at him with a glowing blue finger, firing an icy blast that pierced Rick's armor, leaving a hole in his right arm. Rick dropped his sword and stared at his opponent in a state of shock.

"You forgot that I have magic abilities too, didn't you?" Cyclo mocked as he waved his still glowing finger back and forth. Ice began forming in the hole in Rick's arm, quickly encasing the rest of him.

"Tough break there hero, or maybe it won't be so tough to break you at all!" Cyclo hollered in triumph as he picked himself up off the ground. "Let's see how many pieces I can smash you into - there's no way your girlfriend will be able to embrace all of them!"

To be continued....