As Sigurd’s mind drove him to do no more than distance himself from the great strength of his enemy by any means possible, Gigue’s machinations were of little consequence. He heaved the man’s great weight from his chest and rolled semi-rightward, his forearm and elbow digging into the earth just behind him. With an ungainly desperation the Northman dug in and then thrust himself backwards by driving his elbow into the ground and thrusting it forward like an oar, even as his rock arm dropped to his left side to further aid his flight. The end result saw Sigurd shimmy backwards on his back as Gigue himself settled into his new crouching position. It was not exactly quick, but the Northman’s flight was necessary, escaping the range of the larger man was paramount.

Sigurd readied himself to lash out with a quick kick if Gigue made a lunge for him, making it as difficult as possible for the man to gain a hand-hold on his leg. With Gigue facing the wrong way there was a good chance Sigurd could escape at last, as with another two oar-like ministrations he would be a whole body-length away from Gigue and safely out of grasp. At that point only would Sigurd be prepared to slide his legs underneath him and kneel, ready to propel himself up onto his feet.