Rhian grunted, adjusting his weight. The deep scratch across his back stung every time he moved. He couldn't see the wound, but the pain was clear, sharp, and spreading.
His regeneration kicked in. He could feel it drawing energy from his core.
The monster stood still across from him, its long limbs tense, its wide mouth dripping with spit.
It didn't rush. It waited, like it knew Rhian was the one panicking.
Rhian shifted his footing. He wasn't going to let this thing control the pace.
He took the first step, pushing off the ground and closing the distance.
His fist swung low, aiming for its ribs. It hit.
Thump!
The creature flinched, stumbling back. Rhian's knuckles burned from the contact. Its skin wasn't as tough as he expected—fleshy, but thick.
He didn't stop. He swung again, this time with his other hand, landing a hard blow to its shoulder.
Crack!
The sound was satisfying. But it didn't matter.
The monster retaliated fast.
