"Interesting," the monster rumbled, its multiple voices laced with a newfound respect. "So, you finally decided to show your true colors."
Vell didn't respond with words. A low growl rumbled in his throat, a sound more akin to a beast than a man. He moved with a speed that defied the eye, blurring across the distance between them in an instant. His sword, now wreathed in dark energy, slashed through the air, leaving behind trails of black light.
The monster, caught slightly off guard by the sudden shift in power and speed, barely managed to raise its arm in defense. The clash of blade against flesh and bone sent shockwaves through the surrounding forest, uprooting trees and sending debris flying. A deep gash opened on the monster's arm, dark blood oozing out.
It recoiled, its eyes widening in surprise. "You… you can hurt me now?" It looked at its injured arm with a mix of fascination and anger.
