Zios projected a prismatic, multi-faceted shield around himself. The explosions swarmed around him as Zelriane did his pass but failed to inflict any damage against the shield. Being well aware of what Zel's light techniques were capable of, Zios pushed himself aside and slid around in a semi-circle to face the speedster again.

	Killing Zelriane was quite viable at this point - assuming he could land a direct hit. Opening himself to an attack to draw the man in would likely work. A feint like that usually did work against Zelriane but it also put Zios at risk of another severe injury or death. Trading lives or damage was out of the question. That being said he would need to outsmart the man.

	A glowing staff materialized in Zios' hand. He held it straight up-and-down behind his back and stood tall. It was a defensive posture any way you looked at it. How was he going to wield a staff properly with one hand?