As Utopian and Superman walked away from the training room, discussing the principles of force redirection, a familiar yet imposing figure blocked their path. Wonder Woman stood there, fists on her hips, a competitive fire blazing in her eyes. A confident, almost feral smile played on her lips.
Wonder Woman, addressing Utopian: I observed your match. It was impressive. A demonstration of discipline and intelligence.
She shot a quick glance at Superman.
Wonder Woman: Sorry, Kal, but hitting like an enraged blacksmith isn't the only way to fight.
Superman raised his hands in a peaceful gesture, an amused smile on his face. "I just learned that lesson myself."
Diana turned her attention back to Utopian.
Wonder Woman: Your martial art... it speaks of control, of precision. Qualities an Amazon can appreciate. Mine are born from millennia of perfected hand-to-hand combat.
She took a step forward, her gaze challenging, yet respectful.
Wonder Woman: So, what do you say to an exchange between masters? No brute strength, no flying. Technique only. The first to achieve a clean hold or submission wins.
Utopian felt a new thrill run through him. To test himself against Wonder Woman, whose martial skills were legendary? This was a golden opportunity.
Utopian: Bartitsu against the Amazonian style. I'm curious to see this.
Wonder Woman: Perfect.
They moved to the central mat, drawing even more attention. Flash looked like he was about to vibrate on the spot.
Flash: Oh man! This is the match of the century! British style vs. mythological style!
Batman, from the mezzanine, crossed his arms, his interest obvious. Mister Terrific moved closer, ready to analyze every move.
On the mat, they bowed to each other, a respectful nod. Then, the bout began.
It was immediately different from the fight with Superman. Where Superman was a rock, Wonder Woman was a river. She moved with a lethal grace, her attacks were fluid combinations of punches, kicks, and grapples.
Utopian used Bartitsu to defend, parrying and evading with economical efficiency. He tried to find openings for his own holds. He caught her arm, attempted a joint lock, but Diana rolled out with incredible flexibility, countering with an elbow hook.
They circled, engaged, disengaged. It was a complex dialogue of push, pull, and leverage. At one point, Utopian managed to off-balance her with a low sweep, but she recovered with an acrobatic move and attempted to ensnare him with her legs.
The bout lasted several intense, exhausting minutes. Finally, as Utopian attempted a throw, Diana anticipated his movement. She intelligently yielded to his momentum, but pivoting, she wrapped her arm around his and his neck, locking his head against her shoulder in a tight submission hold.
Utopian struggled for a moment, searching for an escape, but the hold was perfect. He tapped her shoulder twice in submission.
They released each other, both panting, sweat beading on their foreheads.
Wonder Woman, offering a hand to help him up: You are formidable. Your style is ingenious. It forced me to use techniques I haven't employed in years.
Utopian, smiling: As are you. Your fluidity is... intimidating. I still have much to learn.
As they left the mat to the respectful applause of their peers, it was clear that Utopian had gained much more than a simple sparring match. He had earned the deep respect of one of Earth's greatest warriors.