The Reaper lunged forward without warning—a blur of abyssal black and crimson hunger, its scythe already carving a deadly arc through the air. The blade was aimed directly at Adam's throat, trailing a wake of distorted space and screaming air.
Adam was already moving to meet the attack. His fist shot forward, wreathed in writhing dark energy, meeting the scythe's edge head-on.
"[Monarch's Pierce]!"
The impact was cataclysmic. A shockwave of raw force exploded outward from the point of contact, cracking the scorched earth and sending debris hurtling in all directions.
Then the Reaper's blade broke through.
The scythe swept forward, carving a deep gash across Adam's ribs. Blood sprayed, black and thick, sizzling where it touched the corrupted ground. Adam's regeneration kicked in almost immediately, the wound beginning to seal, but the attack had been too fast.
Adam's eyes narrowed. 'It's stronger than before. That demon's soul really pushed it over the edge.'
