[@Doc Doctor] Without a moment to regain composure, he found himself within reach yet again. The barbarian's hand was still grabbing for his shifting sword arm. So he angled his elbow outward and responded in kind.

With a step inward this time, the King met Gonad chest to chest with all his might in an attempt to make him stumble. His right elbow swerved against the barbarian's forearm, using his momentum to swat the grabby hand away.

Since his shield arm was still technically being grabbed, he knew his fist was still aimed at the barbarian. His thumb brushed gently over the ruby ring on his ring finger and the gem flared into life as the fire magic within was called forth.

In such close proximity, it was hard to miss, but Guzman made it harder by pushing his shield hand into Gonad's right side just before the ruby ring issued forth a searing burst of flame. 

If he were to die, they'd die together.