There was a vicious flash of joy as Aurin felt his fist connect with Constans’ jaw. Somewhere in his mind he was surprised by how it felt, by the satisfaction he derived from the sudden and brutal attack. There was something uncomplicated about simple violence. He did not have to think about it, he could simply act and react. All the doubts he had a moment ago began to fade as he concentrated on what he knew was coming.
He knew how this was going to end. Constans was used to fighting, he was trained with it. He could tell that by the way the bigger boy moved. Aurin had nothing but his innate skill and stubbornness to carry the day. Even if he somehow beat the bigger one, there were all the rest to get past. He had reinforcements, and all Aurin had was himself. Still. He would not give them the satisfaction of running. He wouldn’t give them the pleasure of seeing him cry. No, he would stand up to them. Because if /he/ did not, they might go after Beth.
That thought made his blood boil. He couldn’t let them get to anyone else. So. He would make himself the target. He was tough, he was strong. He could take it.
Constans was fast though, and the grab for his shoulder connected. His own dodge was slow as he tried to pull away. The fist slammed hard into his stomach and he couldn’t help a groan as he doubled over. Tears came to his eyes from the sudden shock of it. If he stopped though then this would be a quick end to it. Instinct more than anything else caused him to crouch just slightly and coil his legs under him. He launched himself up then, raising his head in a headbutt aimed to catch Constans under the jaw.