Arlon's grip tightened on Aetherion's Edge as Kurge spun toward him like a massive, living drill.
The speed was unlike anything it had shown before. Faster than a blink. Faster than anything he had fought so far in the Tower.
A direct hit wasn't an option. Even if he blocked, the force would likely shatter his guard and send him crashing through the chamber walls.
Arlon's mind raced, calculating.
No time for a counter. No time to charge a stronger spell.
He made his choice.
Blink.
In an instant, his body vanished, reappearing just outside the attack's range.
The very next second—
BOOOOM!
Kurge slammed into the ground, the sheer force of its landing shaking the entire chamber.
Stone cracked and exploded outward, a powerful shockwave tearing through the battlefield.
Arlon lifted his free hand, forming a barrier of condensed mana just in time to shield himself from the flying debris.
The dust settled, revealing a massive crater where Kurge had landed.
