Valtor pushed ahead. His eyes were bright, almost burning with excitement.
Then...
The air shifted.
A heavy pressure rolled through the forest, making the smaller plants tremble.
Valtor stopped.
"…Oi."
From between the trees, a massive shadow stepped forward.
Its body was covered in dark, uneven scales, and its eyes glowed with a deep, violent light.
Every breath it took made the air feel thick.
Arden's eyes narrowed instantly.
"Third realm demonic beast," he said sharply. "Valtor, get back. Now."
Valtor's lips stretched into a grin.
"So this is it," he muttered. "Perfect."
"Valtor!" Arden shouted.
But Valtor was already moving.
He stomped forward, muscles tightening as he rushed in with a roar. "COME ON!"
The beast turned its head slowly.
Then...
BOOM!
A shockwave exploded outward from its body.
Valtor didn't even have time to block.
His body was thrown back like a broken doll, crashing through trees before slamming hard into the ground.
