Connection rings through his wrists, and Cera feels the pulse of his heart thump in tandem with the sting of his chest. A scratch was preferable to a broken rib or a puncture, but it would reduce his flexibility. Time to change tactics.
His opponent shuffles to hide more behind his shield, and Cera's sharp eyes dart across his features analytically. It was definitely a problem, one he had to work around creatively. Even if the larger man had more surface area, the shield was light enough to be wielded with devastating efficiency.
The minimal retreat gives Cera the time he needs to switch gears. He knows his own weaknesses after years of fighting larger, heavy-hitting opponents. The intimidation tactics, the danger of close combat, he has faced it all. The gouged scar upon his neck is testament, because Cera is just reckless enough - just fearless enough - to put himself at a purposeful disadvantage.
As Are moves slowly forward, he doesn't give him time to come up with a new plan. Cera does the opposite of what his build would prefer and lunges forward into close quarters once more, placing himself right in the most dangerous area. He wields the blunt end of the spear like a bat, arcing high towards Are's neck and collarbone.
As soon as the spear is close enough to impact, and knowing the axe is likely to make a return swing swiftly even if one arm blocks the blow, Cera lashes out with his right foot at the tender joint of Are's nearest knee to try and buckle it. Even unbalancing the mountainous man would be worthwhile, if his spear didn't land in the first place.
Attack: 3/4
