The griffon screeched in rage as its storm was consumed.
Aldric clicked his tongue.
"Impressive control… but let's see how you handle close range!"
He dashed forward at blinding speed, closing the thirty-foot gap in an instant. His fist glowed with compressed wind mana.
"Gale Breaker Fist!"
A devastating punch infused with sharp wind exploded toward Julian's chest.
Julian met him head-on.
He sidestepped at the last moment and countered with a palm strike.
"Crimson Palm!"
His palm connected with Aldric's side. Crimson flames erupted on impact, blasting the commander backward several meters. Aldric skidded across the ground, leaving deep grooves in the stone before he stabilized himself.
He looked down at the burn mark on his uniform and let out a low laugh.
"Hah… that actually hurt."
Julian stood calmly, the phoenix circling above him protectively.
"You're holding back, Commander," he said. "I told you to use everything."
Aldric straightened up, cracking his neck.
