Chapter 20: Second
Relying on his exceptional vision, thanks to his unique eyes, Nero sidestepped at the last moment, slashing at the orc’s upper body while under the temporary boost of his physical strength. The cut wasn’t deep, but it was enough to make the orc pause. Seizing the opportunity, Nero followed up with a double slash, creating a cross-shaped wound on the monster’s torso. Blood gushed forth, and the creature cried out in anguish.
"Guh!"
Nero jumped backward and rolled on the ground. His aim was to sever the monster’s tendons. Although humanoid monsters were stronger and different from humans, they did share some similarities; for instance, the locations of certain organs were the same for both. Right now, Nero was targeting the orc’s tendons, knowing that by cutting them, he could hinder the monster’s movement, allowing him to inflict more damage. Orcs were notorious for their annoying ability called Regeneration. While not as exceptional as that of an Ogre or Cyclops, it was still bothersome.
To begin with, an orc’s hide was extremely tough, making it difficult to cut. Combined with its regenerative abilities, it presented a significant challenge. Nero noted that the orc’s first wound had nearly healed; if it weren’t for the cross-shaped gash he had created, the previous injury might have already mended.
However, just as he was about to sever the first tendon, the orc spoke.
[Human cunning!]
The monster immediately raised its right foot and stomped it hard on the ground.
Boom!
A tremendous shockwave erupted, and Nero was sent flying, completely caught off guard by the sudden attack.