"..." Nikolai scowled. For a moment, Jade's plan seemed brilliant, but...

"No." He said. "You're right, he'll lose his elasticity, but that just means no snapback... Hit that shield and you're more than likely to break your fist... Look..." He held up the saber. Sure enough, the blade was bent from the impact with the marine's arm. He tossed it aside and dived for the marine's tossed blade.

"Don't get cocky!" The marine said, slamming his fist into his palm, sending ripples up to his elbow.

"This technique... I've seen it..." Nikolai said, getting his guard up. "He's going to speed up! Get ready!" He shouted as the marine approached with no sign of acceleration.