The hit connects and drives him back another step, all the way to the cold stone of the wall. Blood sprays through the air, though whether from Javert's knuckles hitting the rigid edge of his teeth or from the meat of his nose, it's impossible to tell.

The second hit comes quick on the heels of the first, and it takes him by surprise. He wants to scream at him, Yes, take back what is yours! Pull it from me by force!

But he keeps those thoughts to himself, hissing at the sharp sensation travelling through long neglected pathways into his spine. Sensation, reminding him of what it's like to be human. To be alive.

'I will, have, this day.' The words are gritted out through clenched teeth.