Alavin hid in the shadows, expressionless, not in a rush to reveal himself as he carefully observed the raging battle. He had never dealt with mercenaries before, but he knew well enough that these were hardened warriors who lived by the sword's edge. Aiding them might not bring thanks, and worse, what if he were to be double-crossed? There would be no chance for regret then.
The battle grew more intense and perilous. The Bladebite Beast was covered in wounds, driven into a frenzy. The five mercenaries now found themselves unable to retreat.
Alavin suddenly noticed a cave not far off, which seemed to be emitting potent Restoration Aether. Having practiced the arts of the Restoration Mantra, he was particularly sensitive to this kind of energy.
The fight seemed to have spilled out from that very cave.
"Aargh!" One of the mercenaries in black was flung through the air by the beast's sharp claws. His back was a bloody mess with three terrifying gashes.
The Bladebite Beast roared, its voice echoing through the dense forest, deafening. Its body surged with dark energy, tossing the four remaining mercenaries aside as it lunged for the man in black. Its mighty paws struck the ground and scattered stones in a wild and brutal assault.
"No!" the mercenaries cried out.
"Come on! Help us, and you shall be well rewarded! Hurry!" The wounded man struggled to his feet, ignoring his severe pain, and charged at the Bladebite Beast with his heavy sword.
The beast charged, rising on its hind legs. Its body was surrounded by a fierce black wind. Its massive claws came crashing down toward the man in black.
"Move away!" The mercenaries screamed, diving to intervene, knowing they were no match for the Bladebite Beast.
"Waaah!" The man's face contorted with fury as he stomped the ground, halting his charge and spinning in place. His sword whirled in a deadly arc above his head.
In the nick of time, Alavin made his move, charging straight at the Bladebite Beast. His muscles tensed, a seething power stirred in every cell and converged in a mighty surge down his right arm.
"Mountain Mover!" With a thunderous shout, Alavin's body slammed into the beast's belly, releasing a tremendous force.
His blow carried the weight of at least seven hundred pounds, and the explosive power of the Mountain Mover was three times that amount.
Boom! Crack! The Bladebite Beast staggered as if struck by lightning. The impact shattered its ribcage.
Seizing the moment, the man in black swung his heavy sword in a wide arc, severing one of the beast's claws.
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Legendary Mage