Chapter 19: Monster Core
Astrael stood in the middle of the tunnel, his chest heaving as if he had run a marathon. Blood dripping from his temple, soaking his body around his shattered shoulder.
He grimaced at the pain, but it was nothing compared to the million deaths he suffered. The hobgoblin was fully enraged.
ROOOOOOOAAAARRR!
The enraged hobgoblin let out a thunderous roar and charged straight at him, its heavy stone maul carving a deep trench in the cavern floor as it dragged behind. At the moment, Astrael thought of a crazy idea.
Astrael his ground, sword held low in his hand, its blue light flickering erratically. The plan was insane. It relied on timing, agility, and the monster’s rage, which clouded his judgment.
Ten feet.
Nine feet.
Astrael closes his eyes. The surrounding mana responded to his will, and the magical energy within him surged out in full force, unrestrained, as he concentrated entirely on his opponent.
Seven...
Astarel could feel the tremor of its footsteps shaking him. His eyes never wavered from the hobgoblin.
Five feet.