The monster's enormous blade remained extended, while its black eyes examined Nikolai with disdain. Several mechanical components continued releasing steam, maintaining its frightening regeneration without interruption.
Meanwhile, Nikolai glanced towards his missing arm.
'Three hearts, three bloodlines, and this bastard still managed to cut me apart...'
His remaining fist slowly tightened with frustration. Yet, rather than charging forward recklessly, he began observing the monster more carefully.
'Every time it attacks, those machines activate...'
The mechanical components weren't entirely independent either. Each activation disturbed the creature's blood circulation, briefly changing the rhythm of its regeneration.
'So that's how you're surviving those wounds.'
Nikolai gradually lowered his remaining arm.
"You're certainly stronger than I expected, bastard."
The creature tilted its head slightly.
"Then acknowledge your inferiority and surrender."
