"Not so bad yourself. Come on, let's see more of it!" He is enjoying the hell out of this and his entire attention, directed by John even more than normal even if he doesn't realize it, has completely focused on John and this combat. There's always the thrilling feel of his blade in his hand, the faintest tingle of the connection to the magic of the Crystal in the back of his head, the excitement making his heart pound in his chest. It's going to cycle right back through their bond and he's going to take some of it from John and together, they're both ranking each other up in the best ways.

Gladio holds tight and braces himself against John's blow, one arm able to hold against John's strength, and he meets John's eyes over it before breaking out into a fierce grin. "Yeah." Just a breath out, then he shifts off to the side, letting the meeting of the blades break and swinging hard for John's side.