Hajin kicked off the ground with a sharp crack, his body launching forward like a coiled spring. His fist slammed into the center of the creature's chest with enough force to shatter stone.
The impact felt like hitting a solid wall of iron, sending a jolt of pain straight up his arm. His mana flared against the purple scales, but Maren didn't even flinch at the hit. The nine-foot monster just let out a hollow, distorted laugh that echoed through the trees.
It brought its massive arm back in a wide arc, the air whistling as it cut through the darkness.
Hajin saw the strike coming but couldn't dodge in time while his feet were still in the air. He crossed his arms in front of his face, bracing for the impact.
Maren's fist hit his guard with the weight of a falling building, crushing the air from his lungs. The shockwave sent a cloud of dirt and leaves spinning violently into the air.
