[qilby sees what's happening just before it happens and, cursing inwardly, he stiffens to take the hit, letting out all his breath in one go. he doesn't end up on his knees, completely winded like he would have, but it hurts just as much you'd think a sharp elbow in your stomach would.
he stifles a groan and brings his arm (still awkwardly gripping his weapon) to reflexively cradle his middle. but he's not forgotten he's still in a fight and -- seeing how itou was so kind to duck down for him -- brings his knee up in retaliation.]
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he stifles a groan and brings his arm (still awkwardly gripping his weapon) to reflexively cradle his middle. but he's not forgotten he's still in a fight and -- seeing how itou was so kind to duck down for him -- brings his knee up in retaliation.]