The bullet ripped through his cheek and grazed along the left side of his face, taking some of the bandages and his flesh with it. He'd anticipated its projected path, knowing full well Sanzo would attempt to shoot at him, giving him the slightest advantage, but still, his speed and reflexes couldn't fully compensate.

In spite of the pain that spread over his skin, he didn't stop. Stopping would give Sanzo another chance to shoot, and he could ignore the pain as long as he needed to. His speed suddenly rose in an instant as he pushed his own body right up against Sanzo's, the knife in his hand, sinking hard and deep into the monk's abdomen.

"3."

He twisted it, slowly and deliberately, drawing more blood. It flowed thick and unending down his fingers and along his arms like a warm and pleasant caress that he didn't think he could ever tire of. His lips met Sanzo's ear while he held the blade in place, too close to be shot should Sanzo attempt to retaliate before he died. His voice was nothing more than a deep whisper while he spoke.

"Didn't I tell you when we first met? I will kill anything that stands in my path."