Perplexed, Hercules studied the now-mocking Anteus with a fresh intent. It makes no sense, he thought, I throw him to the ground, and he acts like I'd barely touched him. That last throw should have shattered his arm, and yet... Hercules threw himself into combat once more, but the giant swatted him about like a pesky gnat. Infuriated, Hercules clasped his arms around Anteus' waist and hoisted him aloft, intent now to slam him hard enough to break every bone in the man's body... ... and as he did, he felt his opponent suddenly go limp and heavy over his shoulder. Is it the ground that fuels him? Hercules wondered. Is Mother Earth somehow protecting him from harm? Keeping his arms firmly in place, Hercules lowered Anteus so that only a single toe touched the ground — — and he could feel the power suddenly surging through the giant's body as he thrashed about even harder than before. Hercules hoisted him higher, now crushing his body as again Anteus weakened. Hercules pulled him aloft once more, straining to keep Anteus under control, now knowing he'd beaten the giant into submission. Panting, exhausted, he threw Anteus to the ground. The giant looked up at him and smiled, a thin, mocking smile. "You've won, Hercules. For now. You may pass. But I'll still be here tomorrow..."