wrath

Ah, I should be clearer. But you got it right! Setting this up in case you want Kierke to flee the scene, but the fight can continue if he wants to goad Njal for more.

He was successful only in bringing about further rage from his opponent, which was a cause for concern. Rather, it would've been if Njal was in his proper state of mind. He ignored - or was blinded to - the maneuvers of the foreigner. While Njal managed a few fleeting snaps at the other's flesh, the rogue was immovable. And then Kierke dove towards Njal's body with the ferocity held by any lone wanderer: intent on living or fleeing, he had to make a stand.

Kierkegaard's teeth sank easily in to Njal's side. The teeth slid against the curve of his ribs and gashed him cleanly, spreading blood in to the creek's water. Second to this came the beast's slamming paws, causing Njal to stumble briefly. He was so overwhelmed by thoughts of his wife, of his child who lay in wait for this devil's advances, that he let his guard slip.

Njal stumbled and adjusted, but not before a chasm spread between the rogue and himself. He was left to stand in the frigid water - his mouth hanging open, flecked with blood that could've been his, could've been the stranger's - and his body sagging in exhaustion.