As Marcus helped Fenris to his feet, a gesture of respect between warriors, they both turned to witness a scene that froze their blood. Hualing was charging across the platform with terrifying purpose, her movements a blur of deadly precision.
Thorne Blackpelt, the beastman team's second close-combat specialist, spotted her approach and moved to intercept, positioning himself protectively before his remaining teammates.
"I won't let—" His declaration of defiance died in his throat, replaced by a violent spray of crimson as Hualing's fist connected squarely with his abdomen.
The impact came with such devastating force that Thorne's expression contorted in agony, his internal organs shifting unnaturally beneath the blow. It felt as though invisible fingers were rearranging his insides, twisting and crushing with methodical cruelty.
